Top Five Most Popular Attractions to see on a Trip Between Arlington, Virginia and Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee

Embarking on a road trip between Arlington, Virginia and Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee is an exciting adventure! There are numerous beautiful towns, scenic routes, and stunning places to visit in between. In this article, I will guide you through the top five most popular attractions to see when traveling from Arlington, Virginia to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee.

Route and Halfway Point

The total distance between the start and end point is approximately 700 miles. The halfway point is the picturesque town of Glade Spring, Virginia. This charming small town is nestled in the mountains of Southwest Virginia, and it offers several outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Glade Spring is an ideal place to take a break and relax before continuing your journey.

Top Five Popular Attractions

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited National Park in the United States. This sprawling park covers over 500,000 acres and is located between Tennessee and North Carolina. Visitors will enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls, and the stunning views from Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Smokies. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including black bears, deer, and elk.

2. Natural Bridge, VA

Located in the quaint town of Natural Bridge, Virginia, this stunning natural wonder is a must-visit attraction. This 215-foot-tall limestone arch bridge is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Virginia. You can hike to the bridge and then take a small shuttle to tour the inside of the caverns. The American Indian legend says that the Monacan Indian Princess sacrificed herself to the Great Spirit in order to save her people and that the bridge was then formed to commemorate her bravery.

3. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Composed of the longest cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is a unique natural attraction that should not be missed. The park provides miles of underground labyrinthine tunnels, as well as access to thrilling adventure sports such as caving and hiking. Additionally, Mammoth Cave features diverse flora and fauna and a plethora of scenic hiking trails for you to explore.

4. Cumberland Falls, KY

Cumberland Falls, located near Corbin, Kentucky, is one of the few places in the world where you can see a moonbow, a nighttime rainbow. The Cumberland Falls State Park offers wonderful trails to the falls as well as a meadow to watch the falls from. You can hike the Eagle Falls Trail, which offers 1.5 miles of easy and scenic hike along the Cumberland River to the Lower Falls. Afterward, head to the Cumberland Falls Lodge, which is open year-round, to enjoy food and a cozy stay.

5. Lookout Mountain, TN

Lookout Mountain is a scenic mountain ridge in Tennessee that offers stunning views of Chattanooga Valley, Lookout Valley, and the Tennessee River. Visitors can explore Civil War-era exhibitions or take a glance at the geology and ecology of the area. Additionally, busy families will enjoy attending one of the many annual outdoor events or festivals that happen throughout the year.

Best Route

The best route to take when driving from Arlington, Virginia to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee is via I-81 South, which brings you to the charming town of Glade Spring, Virginia. From there, take I-81 South, which will merge with I-40 West, and will lead you to all of the amazing attractions listed above.

In conclusion, the road trip between Arlington, Virginia and Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee is full of astonishing attractions and scenic views. From the natural wonders of Natural Bridge and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the historical value of Lookout Mountain and Mammoth Cave National Park, every traveler is able to embark on an unforgettable trip filled with remarkable experiences.