Road Trip from Burlington, NC to Lebanon, TN: Top 5 Things to Do

Waynesville, NC can be considered as a halfway point to the destination from Burlington, NC to Lebanon, TN. The entire trip spans over 500 miles, full of fun and memorable moments. From mountain ranges to artistic towns, colonial cities to regional parks, this article discusses the top five things to do on this road trip.

Visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC

A trip to Asheville, NC is incomplete without visiting the Biltmore Estate. Spread over 8,000 acres, the Biltmore Estate is the most significant private residence in the United States, with stunning gardens, a winery, and a farm shop to explore. Built by George Vanderbilt in the 1890s, this grand estate has 250 rooms, a bowling alley, a heated indoor pool, and two elevators, exuding luxury and grandeur.

Interesting Fact: The estate's gardens were designed by Central Park's landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted.

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A paradise for hikers, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit location. Spread over 500,000 acres, the national park is nestled between North Carolina and Tennessee. With over 800 miles of maintained trails, the national park offers year-round activities like camping, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Interesting Fact: The Great Smoky Mountains are home to 1500 black bears, making it the largest protected bear habitat in the eastern US.

Discover the History of Knoxville, TN

Located along the Tennessee River, Knoxville, TN is an exuberant and historic city. Known for its diverse music scene, the city is a perfect blend of culture and history. The downtown area is bustling, with plenty of parks, cafes, and historic landmarks. Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art, the East Tennessee History Center, or wander around the Market Square to discover the city's history.

Interesting Fact: Knoxville was the first capital of Tennessee when it became a state in 1796.

Sip on Whiskey at Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg, TN

No trip to Tennessee is complete without visiting Jack Daniel's Distillery. Located in Lynchburg, TN, the distillery offers a glimpse of the art of whiskey-making. Take a tour of the facility and watch how they transform Tennessee spring water and quality grains into one of the smoothest whiskey in the world. Visitors can sample from the five different varieties on offer.

Interesting Fact: Jack Daniel's Distillery is situated in a dry county, where the sale of alcohol is still prohibited.

Immerse in Nature at the Rock Island State Park

Located on the Cumberland Plateau, the Rock Island State Park is the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts. The park has scenic waterfalls, swimming holes, hiking trails, and campsites, making it a serene place for overnight camping. The Caney Fork River is great for kayaking, and the Twin Falls hike is a must-see for any nature lover.

Interesting Fact: Rock Island State Park used to be a native American trading post, with many artifacts still present in the park.

The trip took around ten hours in total, covering a diverse range of locations. From the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate to the serenity of the Rock Island State Park, this trip has everything for everyone. Take in the history, art, and nature that the route has to offer, making stops at strategic locations for a wholesome experience.