Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, the Top Secret and White Lightning Trails promise a captivating journey through history, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems. These self-guided driving tours offer a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, allowing travelers to explore the rich tapestry of the region. Buckle up as we embark on an adventure that unveils the secrets and stories of East Tennessee.

On the Top Secret Trail, you will experience the area’s culture, incredible history, and marvel at the beauty of East Tennessee’s landscape along its nearly 200 stops.  A few of the trail’s highlights:

Norris Dam State Park: One of the area’s most beautiful state parks, the park offers 4,000 acres on the shores of Norris Lake and offers countless hiking and biking trails. Marvel at the engineering of Norris Dam as it reaches 1,860 feet across the Clinch River and stands 265 feet high. Take a stroll along the dam’s walkways and enjoy panoramic views of Norris Lake.

Museum of Appalachia: Visit the museum and explore a pioneer mountain farm-village with 35 log cabins, barns, churches, schools, display barns and more.  Grab a souvenir in the fantastic gift shop and be sure to grab a good ole’ southern meal in the delicious museum restaurant.

Now comes the secret … the Secret City. Hidden from maps until 1946, Oak Ridge housed more than 75,000 people at the peak of the Manhattan Project and is the site of the Manhattan Project National Historic Park which tells the story about the people, events, science, and engineering that led to the creation of the atomic bomb, which helped end World War II.

Continue your journey into learning more about the Secret City with a stop in the American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE). AMSE is a great place to learn the significance of this small community’s efforts in changing the world. Take part in hands-on activities and get an in-depth look of the movement that made Oak Ridge what it is today.

Find out everything you need to know about the Top Secret Trail here.

The White Lightning Driving Trail offers 200 miles of unique American stories told every day through Appalachian arts and crafts, preserved buildings and sites, historic town squares and the tales of legendary characters. A few of the trail’s highlights:

Historic Downtown Clinton: Stroll the streets of Historic Downtown Clinton and see why it was rated in the top 10 antiquing districts in the country. Browse over 20 stores that specialize in antiques and unique gifts. In addition to the fantastic antique shops, there are plenty of boutiques to shop for clothing, beautiful home decor and gifts.

Green McAdoo Cultural Center and the Clinton Twelve Statues: On August 27, 1956, twelve young people in Clinton, Tennessee walked into history and changed the world. They were the first students to desegregate a state-supported high school in the south. Clinton High School holds the honor of having the first African American to graduate from a public high school in the South. Learn the fascinating history of the twelve and how they not only changed a community, but a nation, at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center.

Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue: Get up close and personal with animals from the jungle to the barnyard at the Little Ponderosa. The zoo has rescued animals from all over the country and is dedicated to providing them with a safe and healthy home.

Find out everything you need to know about the White Lightning Trail here.

East Tennessee’s Top Secret and White Lightning Trails provide an enriching and adventurous experience for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of the East Tennessee region. Whether you’re intrigued by classified history or yearning for the beauty of the Appalachian landscape, these self-guided driving tours offer an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tennessee. So, rev up your engines and set forth on an exploration that combines the thrill of the unknown with the splendor of the Volunteer State.