Blackberry Mountain: East Tennessee’s Newly Crowned Treasure in USA TODAY’s 2025 Most Treasured Views
There’s something magical about waking up to the misty blues and purples of the Smoky Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. Having spent countless mornings watching the sun rise over these ancient hills, I can tell you that no two views are ever quite the same. And now, one of my favorite spots has received the recognition it truly deserves.
Blackberry Mountain in East Tennessee has officially been named one of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views for 2025, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share why this designation is so well-earned.
The Majestic Allure of Blackberry Mountain
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain isn’t just a location—it’s an experience that captivates all your senses. The panoramic vistas from its peaks offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Southeast, especially during those golden hours when the sun paints the landscape with warm, glowing hues.
As someone who’s hiked practically every trail in these mountains, I can confidently say that Blackberry Mountain offers perspectives that simply take your breath away. Whether you’re gazing at fog-kissed valleys in the morning or watching the sunset cast long shadows across the rolling terrain, there’s a timelessness to these views that speaks to your soul.
What Makes Blackberry Mountain’s Views So Special?
Unlike some of the more commercialized spots in the Smokies, Blackberry Mountain maintains a perfect balance between accessibility and preservation. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Elevation variations that showcase both intimate woodland settings and expansive mountain panoramas
- Unobstructed views that span multiple ranges, creating layered horizons that seem to go on forever
- Seasonal transformations that make each visit unique—from spring’s vibrant greens to fall’s fiery displays
- Thoughtful development that respects and enhances the natural environment rather than competing with it
I’ll never forget my first visit during an autumn sunrise when the valleys were filled with fog and the surrounding peaks emerged like islands in a cloudy sea. It’s moments like these that remind you why East Tennessee has been inspiring artists and nature lovers for generations.
More Than Just a Pretty View
Blackberry Mountain isn’t just about passive observation—it’s about immersion. The property, part of the renowned Blackberry Farm enterprise, offers an array of experiences that connect visitors to the land and its heritage.
From guided hikes through old-growth forests to wellness activities that make the most of the mountain setting, this place honors Appalachian traditions while offering modern luxuries. You can forage for wild ingredients with an expert naturalist in the morning and enjoy them transformed into a gourmet meal by evening.
When to Visit for the Most Spectacular Views
| Season | Visual Highlights | Best Viewing Times |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Dogwoods, redbuds, and wildflowers dotting green hillsides | Mid-morning after morning mist clears |
| Summer | Lush, deep green canopies and distant blue ridges | Early morning or golden hour before sunset |
| Fall | Explosive color tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows | Mid-day for brightest colors |
| Winter | Stark, architectural tree forms and occasional snow-dusted peaks | Clear days after weather systems pass through |
Having visited in every season, I’d be hard-pressed to choose a favorite. Each offers its own distinct magic, though there’s something about those crisp October mornings when the mountain seems to be on fire with autumn colors that keeps drawing me back year after year.
Conservation and Community Connection
What makes Blackberry Mountain’s USA TODAY recognition even more significant is the property’s commitment to preserving the very views it’s been honored for. With over 5,200 acres, much of which remains undeveloped and protected, this isn’t just a resort but a conservation project with a deep connection to local communities.
The mountain’s stewards understand that these views aren’t just scenery—they’re the lifeblood of East Tennessee’s identity and economy. By balancing access with protection, they’re ensuring these treasured perspectives will remain for generations to come.
Tips for Experiencing Blackberry Mountain
If you’re planning to visit this newly recognized national treasure, here are a few insider tips from someone who knows these mountains well:
- Book well in advance, especially during peak foliage season (mid-October to early November)
- Consider a weekday visit for a more intimate experience
- Don’t rush—the magic of these views reveals itself to those who slow down and truly look
- Bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer
- Take advantage of guided experiences to deepen your understanding of the landscape
A Mountain Worth Celebrating
As a longtime admirer of the Smoky Mountains, I’m delighted to see Blackberry Mountain receive this well-deserved recognition from USA TODAY. These views aren’t just pretty pictures—they’re windows into the soul of Appalachia, offering glimpses of a landscape that has shaped culture, art, music, and identity throughout the region’s rich history.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who, like me, returns to these mountains again and again, Blackberry Mountain offers something truly special: a chance to see East Tennessee’s natural grandeur from perspectives that remind us why these ancient mountains continue to captivate our hearts and imaginations.
Next time you’re seeking a view that will stay with you long after you’ve left, make your way to this special corner of East Tennessee. I promise those mountain vistas will work their way into your soul, just as they’ve done mine.