Blackberry Mountain: A Tennessee Treasure Named One of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views for 2025
There’s something magical about waking up to the misty embrace of the Smoky Mountains. As someone who’s spent years exploring every nook and cranny of this majestic range, I still find myself breathless at certain vistas. And now, one of my favorite spots has received well-deserved national recognition.
Blackberry Mountain in Tennessee has just been named one of USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views for 2025, and honestly, I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this hidden gem with you.
A Jewel in the Smokies’ Crown
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain isn’t just another pretty view—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. The property spans 5,200 acres of protected land, offering a perfect balance of wilderness and luxury that’s uniquely Appalachian.
I first discovered this treasure during a fall hiking trip about five years ago. The tapestry of autumn colors stretching across the rolling mountains nearly brought tears to my eyes. Whether you’re visiting in the vibrant fall, the lush summer, the blooming spring, or the serene winter, Blackberry Mountain delivers views that deserve every accolade they receive.
What Makes Blackberry Mountain Special?
You might wonder what sets Blackberry Mountain apart from other scenic spots in the Smokies. Having explored countless overlooks and trails throughout the region, I can tell you it’s a combination of factors:
- Elevation and Perspective: The mountain offers sweeping, unobstructed panoramas of the Smoky Mountains that seem to roll endlessly into the horizon
- Preserved Natural Beauty: The commitment to conservation means you’re seeing landscapes much as they appeared centuries ago
- Changing Seasons: Each visit offers something new as the mountains transform through Tennessee’s distinct four seasons
- Morning Mist: The famous “smoke” that gives the Smokies their name is particularly magical from Blackberry Mountain’s vantage points
Experiencing the Most Treasured View
If you’re planning to witness this USA TODAY-recognized view for yourself, I have a few insider tips to enhance your experience:
Best Times to Visit
While Blackberry Mountain is stunning year-round, I’ve found that early morning and sunset offer the most breathtaking vistas. In the morning, you’ll often catch the mountains peeking through a sea of mist, while sunset paints the landscape in rich golds and purples.
October brings the famous fall foliage that transforms the mountains into a patchwork quilt of reds, oranges, and yellows—but be prepared for crowds during peak leaf season. Early November often offers similar views with fewer people.
Photography Tips
As someone who’s taken thousands of photos in the Smokies, I can tell you that Blackberry Mountain offers some of the most photogenic landscapes around. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views, and don’t forget a polarizing filter to cut through haze on clearer days.
The golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) produces the most dramatic lighting across the mountains. And always have your camera ready for wildlife—I’ve spotted black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys during my visits.
More Than Just Views
While the vista is the star attraction, Blackberry Mountain offers much more than just something pretty to look at. The property blends luxury accommodation with authentic Appalachian experiences.
During my last visit, I participated in a foraging expedition where we collected wild mushrooms, berries, and herbs that later appeared in my farm-to-table dinner. There’s something profoundly connecting about eating ingredients from the same landscape that took your breath away hours earlier.
A Local’s Perspective
Having spent countless weekends exploring the Smoky Mountains, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how places like Blackberry Mountain preserve the culture and natural beauty of East Tennessee. The recognition from USA TODAY isn’t just about the views—it’s an acknowledgment of the careful stewardship that keeps this corner of Appalachia so special.
The local communities around Blackberry Mountain maintain traditions that have been passed down for generations—from bluegrass music to handcrafted goods. Taking time to explore nearby towns like Walland and Townsend offers a deeper connection to the mountains you’re admiring.
Plan Your Visit to Blackberry Mountain
If you’re inspired to experience one of America’s Most Treasured Views for yourself, here are some practical tips:
- Make reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (fall color and summer)
- Pack layers—mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer
- Bring sturdy hiking shoes to explore the property’s extensive trail network
- Consider a weekday visit for a more tranquil experience
- Don’t rush—the beauty of Blackberry Mountain reveals itself to those who slow down and truly look
Conservation and the Future
What I find most heartening about Blackberry Mountain’s recognition is how it highlights the importance of conservation. In a time when development constantly threatens natural spaces, the preservation of such magnificent views ensures future generations can experience the same awe we feel today.
By visiting responsibly and supporting conservation efforts in the Smokies, we all play a part in protecting these treasured views for years to come.
Come See Why USA TODAY Got It Right
As someone who’s witnessed countless sunrises and sunsets across the Smoky Mountains, I can wholeheartedly confirm that Blackberry Mountain deserves its place among USA TODAY’s Most Treasured Views for 2025. It’s not just a view—it’s a reminder of why we preserve wild places and the profound effect they have on our spirits.
Whether you’re a lifelong Tennessean or planning your first visit to the Smokies, make time for Blackberry Mountain. Some views change you forever, and this is certainly one of them.
So pack your camera, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare to be amazed by one of Tennessee’s greatest natural treasures. The mountains are calling—will you answer?