Tennessee Travel Regions

Copyright: Tennessee State Parks Cove Lake State Park

Attractions - In the East Tennessee Region, there are over 30 State Parks and Historical Monuments, the Cherokee National Forest and The Great Smoky Mountain National Park to visit. Middle Tennessee includes the Cumberland Plateau area and over 20 state parks and a state natural area. In West Tennessee there are 11 State Parks, including Pinson Mounds Archaeological Park, Chickasaw State Park and T. O. Fuller State Park. Most of the State National Wildlife Refuges are located in this region along the western border.

Recreation - Recreation opportunities in this state are as diverse as the landforms within it. National and state forest lands provide facilities for hiking, camping, picnicking and mountain biking. Several natural and man-made lakes lie within the state, providing access to fishing, boating and swimming.

Climate - Tennessee has a temperate climate with short, mild winters. The average annual snowfall for the state is 12 inches. Spring comes in early March bringing flowering trees and shrubs, and warmer weather. Spring temperatures average between 45 and 70 degrees F. Summers full force arrives in the region by mid May, bringing warm weather and higher humidity. The mountains of eastern Tennessee are a great place to escape the hot summer temperatures as the higher elevation cools the air slightly. Cooling fall temperatures bring crisp air and brilliant foliage colors. Mid to late October is a good time to visit the region to experience the fall color change.

Location - Tennessee is located in the southeastern region of the United States. The three regions break the state into thirds. The eastern region includes the Great Smoky Mountains. The central region includes Nashville and the Cumberland Plateau. The western region borders the Mississippi River and includes the city of Memphis.