During the month of
October - and into November - the entire state of Tennessee bursts out in
bright yellows, oranges, reds and purples. Those trees most favored for autumn
leaf color viewing are everywhere. And I did say that you don't have to go in search of the 2-lane
back-country roads to get good views of the leaves. But there is a two-lane
road that gives you more than just a 'view of the leaves', - US-25-E from
Morristown (I-81 exit 8) to the famous Cumberland Gap.
It starts out like
about any other Tennessee road but as you approach the top of the mountain
near Thorn Hill you'll see a scenic overlook and parking area on your left.
Stop! Spread out before you like a multi-hued carpet is an autumn wonderland
accented by the immensity of Norris Lake. After you've caught your breath and,
perhaps, snapped a photo or two, continue on and, eventually, closely
following the road blazed by Daniel Boone, you will reach Cumberland Gap. Now
there is a modern tunnel easing motorists' passage across the Gap which, in a
way, spoils it. The heavy traffic, however, made this a necessary
'improvement'. On the other side of the tunnel (in Kentucky) is the visitors'
center for Cumberland Gap Historic National Park. We have devoted a page to
this park so you can read more about this beautiful park here > Cumberland
GAP NP
If you are heading to
Lexington, Cincinnati, Louisville or other areas in those directions, just
stay on US-25-E. It is an excellent 4-lane all the way to exit 29 of I-75
(near Corbin KY).
Most accommodations
in area hotels and motels are 'booked
up' during the leaf season. If you haven't made your hotel/motel reservations yet we
have included access to an on-line reservation system for your convenience.
Hotel
reservations are available, usually at a discount,
in the following nearby communities:
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