Tennessee’s Scenic Byways showcase the stunning landscapes of the state, featuring numerous preserved and enhanced roads and highways that both residents and visitors can enjoy.
What is a Scenic Byway?
A Scenic Byway is a road or route that has importance not only to the state of Tennessee but to the American Highway System. The U.S. government officially designates Scenic Byways as recognized routes. Department of Transportation. Each of the scenic byways highlights America’s cultural heritage. They are part of a nationwide network of around 200 roads known as “America’s Byways.”
Each Scenic Byway has underpinning planning documents, a caretaking organization, and at least one of six intrinsic qualities to get its designation. These intrinsic qualities can be historic, recreational, cultural, archeological, scenic or natural. Many of the Scenic Byways in Tennessee have more than one of these qualities, making them even more significant to our state and the country.
Tennessee has thirteen Scenic Byways, the most of any state east of the Mississippi River and third-most nationally. These routes cover each of the three Grant Divisions of our state. Each offers different features and experiences for the traveling public. The Great River Road passes through a flooded forest and along several downtown arts and cultural landmarks in West Tennessee. The Natchez Trace follows a path taken by travelers for the past 10,000 years, while the Cherohala Skyway literally reaches the sky at elevations of nearly 5,400 feet. The Cumberland National Scenic Byway traverses eight counties, while the Walton Road was an original wagon road over the Cumberland Plateau. The Tennessee Valley Authority projects led to the construction of the Norris Freeway. The Newfound Gap serves as the lowest passable point through Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Tennessee’s Scenic Byways offer important viewsheds and help to tell the story of the people and places in our state. Each of the roadways is carefully preserved and managed with a focus on visual quality. This includes keeping them litter-free!
Find Out More about the Scenic Byways
Ready to experience the Scenic Byways of Tennessee yourself? Download this beautiful booklet, which includes maps, photos and more for each of the thirteen designated byways in our state.
