Southeast Appalachian Road Trips

Ideally, you’ll take several days to enjoy the personality and hospitality of those living in the unique communities of the Lowcountry of the Carolinas. Maybe it’s the pungent smell from salty marshes that casts a spell, or a sugary buzz from the lemon-filled sweet tea, but there’s an undeniable draw that makes you want to linger on porches after twilight.

Atlanta, Birmingham and Montgomery reflect the times spanning from segregation under Jim Crow to the push for equality under the 1964 Civil Rights Act. A trip during February, traditionally Black History Month, allows for more events. However, the struggle’s evocative at any time, especially with churches, parks and museums bringing the era to life.

Deer, coyote, owls and hawks are among the many families of wildlife making their homes along this Kentucky section of The Trace. At sunrise and sunset the animals are particularly active, so careful driving is a must. At the National Recreation Area, take a quick detour on the 3.5-mile loop through the Elk & Bison Prairie. The nearby Golden Pond Planetarium houses a visitor center.

This byway following Kentucky's SR 715 offers numerous natural amenities, such as scenic waters and overlooks. Meander through the wooded wonderland by car, or step out for a hike to a natural rock formation, such as the 75-foot Sky Bridge.

Get comfortable with sharp curves along North Carolina's Forest Heritage Scenic Byway (US 276) as it snakes through forests that were once part of Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate. Drive north for the best view of Looking Glass Falls, and plan a pit stop at one of the many picnic areas along the route. You’ll pass under the Blue Ridge Parkway at Wagon Road Gap.

The James H Quillen Scenic Parkway (I-26) takes you through bustling Johnson City and past rolling hills on the way to Kingsport. Indulge in some of the amenities of the tri-cities region if you have time, or simply enjoy the serenity of the countryside along this byway.

The north end of this route begins in the small, quiet town of Dawson Springs. Fifty-six-acre Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park lies at the south end of this two-lane scenic byway. In between, tree-lined SR 109 is rural with long stretches of rolling farmland. In springtime, enjoy the fresh scent of mint from the pennyroyal blooms; in autumn, the hardwood and pine trees present a spectrum of vibrant colors.

Wilderness Road Heritage Scenic Byway follows the historic trail Daniel Boone blazed, also used by explorers, Native Americans and pioneers traveling from Cumberland Gap into the wilderness. Lush scenery around every curve makes it hard to stop in Renfro Valley, famous for toe-tapping mountain music, and Berea, the “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky.”