Staff photo by Tim Barber/Chattanooga Times Free Press -- Wednesday, Sep 19, 2012 - A lone fisherman catches the last light of day Wendesday on Nickajack Lake in Marion County.Resting 30 minutes from Chattanooga and a short drive from both Alabama and Georgia state lines, Jasper has the distinction of being "just down the road" from everything. Though it is renowned for providing a small-town experience while still allowing easy access to Chattanooga, "The Gateway to the Sequatchie Valley" is not without charms of its own. Visitors will find outdoor wonders and cultural celebrations sure to make them think twice before heading off to the big city.
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*AT A GLANCEPopulation: 3,297Date founded: 1820History: Jasper is one of the 16 cities named after Sgt. William Jasper, a Revolutionary War hero who recovered the South Carolina flag after the flagstaff was shot down and kept it raised under enemy fire. Jasper sits on land leased for $1 from Cherokee Indian legend Elizabeth “Betsy” Pack.Landmarks: The building currently used as Jasper’s City Hall was once a depot for the historic Sequatchie Valley Railroad, which spanned from Bridgeport, Ala., to Pikeville, Tenn.Famous residents: Jasper has produced three big-league athletes, including NFL players Eric Westmoreland, a former linebacker for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Eddie Brown, who played for the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams and Washington Redskins. Jasper was also the hometown of Bob Long, pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Seattle Mariners.
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*REASONS TO CELEBRATEJasper’s July 4th Celebration offers a host of fun family activities like a softball tournament and several children’s attractions. Then, when night falls, attendees are treated to a fireworks display so spectacular, it’s been called the largest in the Sequatchie Valley.The Marion County Fair promises “five nights packed with fun,” and each year, that promise is kept. With everything from cow patty bingo and livestock exhibitions to live music and live wrestling, the weeklong fair has something for everyone.On the first Saturday of each December, the Jasper Christmas Parade turns Downtown Jasper into a moving music festival/talent show/fashion display.
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ON THE LAKELocated just southeast of Jasper, Nickajack Lake provides easy access to a pleasant day on the water. With 215 miles of shoreline and 10,370 acres of water, the lake is a paradise for boaters and anglers.>Nearby resort Hales Bar Marina, at 1265 Hales Bar Road, offers floating or land cabin rentals, boat rentals, a restaurant and an 18-hole miniature golf course. Call 423-942-9000 to learn more.
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A TRIP THROUGH HISTORYThe Jasper Regional History Museum takes visitors on a trip through American history through local and regional artifacts.The museum is home to Civil War memorabilia, items from the Great Depression, a collection of Native American relics, handmade quilts passed down for generations and antique furniture, among other things.>Admission is free, but the museum accepts donations. Open Thursday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon.
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FREEFALL TO JASPERFor those looking for a little thrill and a unique view of the Sequatchie Valley, Jasper is home to the Chattanooga Skydiving Company.Each tandem jump begins with a short training session from an experienced skydiver.Jumpers can choose what altitude they’d like to dive from, resulting in freefalls ranging from 30 seconds to two minutes. ($159-$299)>The company also offers skydiving lessons for those interested in jumping solo. Visit chattanoogaskydivingcompany.com to learn more.
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AROUND-THE-WORLD MEALTIMESGeorgia and Alabama aren’t the only places “just down the road” from Jasper. With the superb foreign cuisine at Rafael’s and Las Margaritas, Italy and Mexico might as well be a couple minutes away, too.A favorite among Greek- and Italian-lovers, Rafael’s boasts an extensive menu with everything from gyro and fettuccine to souvlaki and cacciatore. (4725 Main St.; 423-942-8287.)Las Margaritas offers authentic Mexican food and a full bar. Visitors are fond of the hefty fajitas and Tex-Mex options. (4165 Main St.; 423-942-1822.)