Enjoy Summer in our Beautiful Valley!

Summer has arrived in Johnson County, and there’s a fresh mountain breeze calling your name! Whether you're craving adventure, serenity, or culture, Mountain City and the surrounding area have something unforgettable waiting for you this June.

🌊 Watauga Lake Adventures

Crystal-clear and nestled in the Appalachian mountains, Watauga Lake is the perfect summer escape. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the water. Local marinas offer full-day boat rentals, and scenic picnic areas are open to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Don’t forget your camera—sunsets on the lake are picture-perfect!

🚵‍♂️ Doe Mountain Recreation Area

Outdoor lovers, June is made for you! With more than 8,600 acres and over 60 miles of multi-use trails, Doe Mountain Recreation Area is open for hiking, mountain biking, ATV riding, and wildlife viewing. The early summer wildflowers are in full bloom, and the overlooks offer breathtaking views of the valleys below. For a truly unique experience, climb to the top of the Kettlefoot Fire Lookout Tower! Ask a staffer how it got its name.

🍇 Villa Nove Vineyards

Sip, savor, and soak in the views at Villa Nove Vineyards, where rolling hills and handcrafted wines come together for a relaxing day trip. Their summer tasting flights are now featuring seasonal favorites. Enjoy live music on the weekends and explore the vineyard grounds for a peaceful countryside experience. Share the experience by inviting friends!

🏛️ Museum of Butler, TN

Explore the rich history of the "town that wouldn’t drown" at the Museum of Butler. This year, the museum celebrates 25 years of telling the story of the resilience of Appalachian families and early settlement life, as well as sharing carefully curated artifacts and oral histories from the year's leading up to the flooding of Old Butler in 1948.  The museum is open on Saturdays from 11:00am-4:00pm and on Sundays from 1:00-4:00pm. Contact them for special group tours.

🚶‍♀️ Johnson County Trails

Lace up your hiking boots! The Johnson County Trails System is open and blooming with mountain laurel and rhododendrons in June. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a backcountry trek, our trail network has something for all skill levels.

🎭 Heritage Hall Theatre

Nestled in the heart of downtown Mountain City at Heritage Square, Heritage Hall Theatre stands as a beacon of cultural richness as the home for live entertainment in Johnson County, Tennessee. This intimate and inviting venue is not just a theatre; it’s a community hub where the arts flourish and thrive throughout the year.  

🎨 Johnson County Center for the Arts

Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired!  Mountain Music Summer Jams on the Pickin' Porch - Join us every second and fourth Tuesday in June, July, and August for an evening of live Appalachian music. JAM (Junior Appalachian Musicians) students and instructors kick things off at 6 PM, followed by toe-tapping performances from local bluegrass and old-time bands as the sun sets over the mountains. Pick up a map at the arts center to enjoy their Musical Heritage Mural Mile in downtown Mountain City. Check out their website for special classes and more unique events.

🛣️ Copperhead Road Landmark – Butler

If you know the song, you have to visit the road! The Copperhead Road Landmark in Butler is a must-see for country music fans and road trippers alike. Made famous by Steve Earle’s outlaw anthem, this winding mountain road is rich in local lore and rugged beauty. Snap a photo by the landmark sign and explore the roots of one of Tennessee’s most legendary backroads. Make sure you post your pics and use the hashtag #CopperheadRdLandmark.

 🐍 The Snake: Tennessee’s Twisting Treasure – Shady Valley

Winding through the majestic mountains of Johnson County, Tennessee, The Snake is a legendary stretch of road that lives up to its name—featuring 489 curves in just 33 miles. This thrilling route along US 421, between Mountain City and Shady Valley, is a magnet for motorcyclists, sports car drivers, and adventure-seekers alike.

Known for its steep climbs, hairpin turns, and breathtaking mountain views, The Snake delivers a one-of-a-kind driving experience that challenges skill and rewards with scenery. It's not just a road—it’s a rite of passage for those who crave adrenaline and Appalachian beauty in equal measure. Whether you're gripping the handlebars or just taking in the view, The Snake is a ride you’ll never forget.