Blackberry Mountain: Tennessee’s Newest Crown Jewel Named Among USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views
As someone who’s spent countless hours wandering the misty trails of the Smoky Mountains, I’ve seen my fair share of breathtaking vistas. But friends, there’s something truly magical about Blackberry Mountain that sets it apart from the rest of this beloved range I’ve called my writing muse for years.
If you haven’t heard the exciting news, Blackberry Mountain in Tennessee has just been named one of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views for 2025, and let me tell you – this recognition is absolutely deserved!
What Makes Blackberry Mountain So Special?
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains near Walland, Tennessee, Blackberry Mountain isn’t just another pretty face in an already gorgeous region. This stunning property seamlessly blends luxury with wilderness in a way that respects and celebrates the natural beauty of East Tennessee.
The 5,200-acre resort sits like a hidden gem among the rolling peaks, offering views that quite literally take your breath away. Morning mist rises from the valleys, creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers and nature lovers dream about. As the sun shifts throughout the day, the mountain range transforms from deep blues to vibrant greens and fiery oranges at sunset.
A Conservation Success Story
What I particularly love about Blackberry Mountain is the commitment to conservation. Unlike many developments that might have stripped the mountain of its natural character, the team behind this resort has preserved more than half of the property as dedicated conservation land.
Walking the trails here feels intimate and wild – exactly how the Smokies should feel. Native plants flourish, wildlife thrives, and you get the sense that you’re experiencing the mountains as they’ve been for centuries.
The View That Earned National Recognition
So what exactly caught USA TODAY’s attention? While the entire property is stunning, it’s the panoramic view from The Firetower restaurant that truly stands out. Perched at one of the highest points on the property, diners can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine while gazing out at a 360-degree vista of the Smoky Mountains that stretches for miles.
I still remember my first visit – watching the sun sink below the distant peaks while nursing a locally-crafted cocktail. The mountains turned purple in the fading light, and for a moment, everything felt perfectly aligned. It’s the kind of view that makes you forget to check your phone (though you’ll definitely want to snap a few photos).
Beyond the Views: Experiencing Blackberry Mountain
While the views alone are worth the trip, Blackberry Mountain offers so much more:
- Luxurious Accommodations: From ridgetop cabins to stone cottages nestled in the forest
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and fly fishing
- Wellness Focus: A stunning spa, yoga classes, and meditation sessions with mountain backdrops
- Culinary Excellence: Farm-to-table dining that celebrates Appalachian ingredients
When to Visit for the Most Spectacular Views
Having spent years exploring these mountains through all four seasons, I can tell you that each offers something special at Blackberry Mountain:
| Season | What to Expect | Viewing Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Wildflowers, vibrant greens, flowing streams | Morning views after rain showers are magical |
| Summer | Lush forests, afternoon thunderstorms | Sunset views are spectacular with dramatic clouds |
| Fall | Spectacular color transformation | Mid-October usually offers peak foliage |
| Winter | Crisp air, occasional snow, bare trees revealing mountain contours | Clear winter days offer the farthest visibility |
How to Experience Blackberry Mountain
While Blackberry Mountain operates primarily as a luxury resort for overnight guests, there are several ways to experience this treasure:
- Book a stay at the resort (advance reservations highly recommended)
- Make dining reservations at The Firetower or Three Sisters (sometimes available to non-resort guests)
- Inquire about day passes for spa services
- Check their website for special events that might be open to the public
If a full resort stay isn’t in your budget, you can still appreciate similar views by exploring nearby trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Lookout Tower at Clingmans Dome offers comparable (though more crowded) panoramas of this magical mountain range.
A Treasure Worth Preserving
What makes this USA TODAY recognition so meaningful is that it highlights not just beauty, but the importance of preserving these special places. The Smoky Mountains have faced their share of threats from development and environmental challenges over the years.
Blackberry Mountain represents a thoughtful approach to allowing people to experience these treasured views while ensuring they remain intact for future generations. It’s a balance that more destinations would do well to emulate.
Having written about these mountains for years, I’ve seen places change – sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. Blackberry Mountain gives me hope that we can find ways to share natural beauty without sacrificing what makes it special in the first place.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re inspired to experience one of America’s newly recognized Most Treasured Views, start planning your visit to Blackberry Mountain. Whether you’re a longtime Smoky Mountain enthusiast like me or a first-time visitor to Tennessee, these views will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
The mountains have a way of calling you back, and once you’ve seen sunset from Blackberry Mountain, I suspect you’ll be answering that call again and again.