A suspension bridge affords hikers a unique view of the creek below near Piney Falls at Fall Creek Falls State Park.Outdoor lovers won't be able to get enough of Fall Creek Falls State Park, located in Pikeville, Tenn., less than 60 miles from Chattanooga. This little town, where history and tradition rule, is located in the north Sequatchie Valley. Looking to listen to bluegrass, visit a working apple orchard or experience acres of natural beauty? Pikeville has it all.
-- Compiled by staff writer Holly Leber
BEST THING TO DO
Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls -- Fall Creek Falls State Park was voted best state park in the Southeastern United States.
• At 256 feet, Fall Creek Falls is the highest waterfall in the Eastern United States.
• 2,600 acres with campgrounds on the western edge of the Cumberland Plateau.
• Scenic beauty with waterfalls, canyons and forests.
Includes cabins, golf course.
Source: www.tn.gov/environment/parks/FallCreekFalls
Best kept Secret
In Time for the School Bell -- The old Lincoln School, a one-room schoolhouse where minority students attended school.
• The school now is used as a community and meeting center, as well as a music venue.
• Built in 1925.
Source: Dr. Greg Harwood, president, Bledsoe County Chamber of Commerce
Pikeville peek
• Population: 2,000
• Biggest employers: The state of Tennessee, Bledsoe County school system
• Landmarks or geographic features: Historic Cranwell mansion, built from rock, with interior woodwork from Europe.
• History: Est. 1830, Pikeville was named for a gentleman by the name of Pike. Earliest industries included milling.
• Most famous residents: Carrie Hassler, bluegrass musician.
Local Events
• July 4th is celebrated in the town square each year on the Saturday closest to Independence Day.
• A candlelight walk heralds the beginning of the holiday season each December. The businesses stay open later, food samples are given away and carriage rides are available.
• The Autumn Gold Festival in nearby Coker Creek celebrates fall with arts and crafts, a classic car show, gold panning, wagon rides and more.
• The first weekend in September is Mountaineer Folk Festival at Fall Creek Falls State Park. The festival boasts demonstrations of folk arts, crafts, live music and more.
Source: Pikeville Mayor's Office,
www.southeasttennessee.com
BEST PLACE TO EAT
Maggie, I Couldn't Have Eaten Any More -- A café/diner on Main Street, Little Maggie's is a choice location for anyone looking to get a bite in Pikeville.
• Stay and sit or get takeaway before heading to the state park.
• Singer/songwriter Carrie Hassler is part owner.
Source: Pikeville Mayor's office
SOMETHING ELSE TO DO
Pick a little, talk a little
•Wooden's Apple House, on Walden's Ridge, offers more than 18 varieties of apples.
•From August to November, enjoy homemade cider, pies, doughnuts and more.
•Souvenirs and crafts are available in the onsite general store.
Source: Dr. Greg Harwood, president, Bledsoe County Chamber of Commerce
FESTIVAL
Crafts, cars, food and firecrackers
•July 4th is celebrated in the town square each year on the Saturday closest to Independence Day.
•A candlelight walk heralds the beginning of the holiday season each December. The businesses stay open later, food samples are given away and carriage rides are available.
•The Autumn Gold Festival in nearby Coker Creek celebrates fall with arts and crafts, a classic car show, gold panning, wagon rides and more.
•The first weekend each September is Mountaineer Folk Festival at Fall Creek Falls State Park. The festival boasts demonstrations of folk arts like blacksmithing, crafts, live music, wagon rides, food and more.
Source: www.southeasttennessee.com