OUTDOOR RECREATION

With the cooler weather of the fall, now is the perfect time to enjoy all the recreational activities found in Bristol.   

The Appalachian foothills that surround Bristol not only provide a view of the beautiful fall foliage; you can step back in time with a journey through geological wonders at the Bristol Caverns and Appalachian Caverns. Year-round tours conducted by trained guides tell the stories of natural wonders created millions of years ago and how they served the people of the area.

If you’re looking for a fun and convenient place for hiking, camping and biking then look no further than Bristol city parks. Steele Creek Park covers over 2,100 acres with hiking trails around the lake, paddleboats, a nature center and golf course.  Just a few miles away is Sugar Hollow Park with picnic areas, walking trails, sport complex, swimming and camping.

There are more than 40 square miles of inland lakes and freshwater streams nearby including the South Holston Lake. The 7,580 acre reservoir is known for its small-mouth bass fishing. And with sixty percent of its shoreline bordering the Cherokee National Forest, you are sure to find numerous fishing holes. Camp sites and boat ramps for South Holston are available at Observation Knob Park. 

The 640,000-acre Cherokee National Forest provides one of the world’s most natural diverse areas, while the famed Appalachian Trail lies minutes east of the city. Additional outdoor opportunities include whitewater rafting on the nearby Nolichucky River or golf at one of our six public golf courses.

With the great number of recreational opportunities available, discover and explore Bristol in a whole new way