East Tennessee Crossing Byway: Tennessee's Wilderness Road

Take a Little Detour 🌽🚗

Road trips are all about the unexpected stops and Red Barn Produce is one worth making along the East Tennessee Crossing Byway.

An iconic red barn, fresh local food, and products from family farms make this a true taste of East Tennessee. Take the detour, meet the folks who grow it, and bring a little local flavor along for the ride.

Sometimes the best part of the journey is the stop you didn’t plan.

Places You Need to Stop Along the Byway 🚗🍴

Road trips are made for discovery—and some of the best finds are the places you didn’t know you were looking for.

Historic Downtown Morristown is one of those places. Park the car, stroll Main Street, and discover locally owned restaurants, shops, and the welcoming spirit that makes downtown the heart of this community.

Make a stop. Take a stroll. Stay for a bite. ❤️

🍅 Take the Tomato Tour this National Farmers Market Week!

Fresh-picked tomatoes, roadside farm stands, and vibrant farmers markets are waiting along the East Tennessee Crossing National Scenic Byway. From vine-ripened produce to homemade jams, sweet corn, and local crafts, every stop is a chance to support the farmers who grow the flavors of East Tennessee.

🚗 Hit the road.
🍅 Eat fresh.
🌽 Shop local.
❤️ Support our farmers.

Where will your Tomato Tour take you?

☀️ Cool off where the locals do!

When summer temperatures rise, the river becomes the place to be along the East Tennessee Crossing Byway. One of the route's favorite stops is Rustic River Resort Restaurant & Kayaking, where you can paddle the cool waters, then pull up for a delicious meal without ever straying far from your adventure.

Whether you're planning a relaxing float, a day on the water with family and friends, or simply looking for a scenic place to dine, this riverside gem is the perfect place to unwind.

Float. Dine. Repeat. Your next East Tennessee adventure is waiting along the Byway.

🍅🚴 Grab your bike and ride for a great cause!

Register for the Tour de Mater and experience the East Tennessee Crossing Byway as it winds through the fertile farmland of Grainger County—home of Tennessee's world-famous tomatoes. This scenic ride celebrates the county's rich agricultural heritage while supporting the Shop with a Cop program, helping make the holidays brighter for local children.

Pedal through beautiful countryside, discover one of Tennessee's most iconic farming communities, and make every mile count. Sign up, bring your friends, and join the ride!

https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/TN/Rutledge/TourDeMater

Tour De Mater The Tour De Mater is on Saturday August 29, 2026.

A legend of bluegrass meets a legendary pioneer road. 🎻🛣️

Travel the East Tennessee Crossing Byway to Downtown Newport on July 31 for Red, White & Newport, featuring bluegrass icon Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers. Follow the same route that generations of pioneers once traveled, then experience the timeless sounds that have become part of Appalachia's musical heritage.

History, heritage, and legendary music—all in one unforgettable evening and FREE.

Misty morning paddles and summer cool at Panther Creek State Park. 🌿🛶 There's no better way to start the day than gliding across calm waters as the morning mist lifts and East Tennessee wakes up.

Music along the byway... making every summer drive a little sweeter. 🚗🎶

So... what's biting? Hopefully your line. 😉

📍 Cherokee Lake is waiting. Grab your gear, launch the boat, and reel in your next great story.
https://www.wate.com/news/top-stories/cherokee-lake-summer-fishing/

Reeling in fun: Why Cherokee Lake is one of East Tennessee’s top fishing destinations Cherokee Lake offers abundant summer fishing opportunities for species such as stripers and bass, with an upcoming Grainger County fishing tournament scheduled for October 24.

This summer, Newport is turning up the volume.

East Tennessee bluegrass comes home on July 31 as Bluegrass legend Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers take the Black Market Stage for a FREE evening of unforgettable music. Bring a lawn chair, gather with friends, and enjoy the authentic sounds that have echoed through these Appalachian hills for generations.

It's another reason to follow the East Tennessee Crossing Byway—where history, music, and mountain hospitality meet.