3 Amazing State Parks in Driving Distance of Johnson City, TN

Sitting on the eastern tip of the state, Johnson City, TN is located within driving distance from several beautiful state parks and sprawling green areas where you and your family can enjoy a day in nature. If you are planning a vacation in the area and are searching for the best places to visit in your brand-new 2023 Chevrolet Traverse, here are three spots you will fall in love with.

1. Grandfather Mountain State Park

With an extensive network of challenging hiking trails, rocky cliffs, and some of the most scenic views in the entire region, Grandfather Mountain State Park is a place where you can spend an entire weekend away from the city with your loved ones. Located at 9872 Highway 105 South near the town of Banner Elk and about 45 miles southeast of Johnson City, this state park can be reached in just one hour by car.

Established in 2009 with the objective of preserving the wildlife and biodiversity of the area, Grandfather Mountain State Park encompasses nearly 4,000 acres of territory and is open throughout the year between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. This place features the highest suspension footbridge in the entire United States, a nature center, scenic picnic spots, and fascinating rock formations.

2. Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park

Boasting a series of beautiful and photogenic waterfalls and wilderness areas, Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park covers an area of more than 2,000 acres and is located at 501 Rocky Fork Road near the town of Flag Pond. Driving here from downtown Johnson City takes just half an hour by car via route I-26, making it an excellent destination for a fun and memorable day trip.

Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park was designated in 2012 and is a largely undeveloped nature reserve where visitors can go hiking or mountain biking on an extensive network of old roadbeds. Fishing and other popular water activities are also allowed in this public recreation area.

3. Mount Mitchell State Park

Encompassing nearly 5,000 acres and featuring the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell State Park is a U.S. National Natural Landmark and another excellent spot to go on a challenging hike, recharge your batteries, and enjoy nature at its best. Located at 2388 NC-128 near the town of Burnsville, this state park can be reached in about one hour and 45 minutes by car from Johnson City via route NC-80.

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