If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Southeast Tennessee offers some of the most tranquil and hidden towns I’ve ever come across. Nestled among rolling hills, lush forests, and serene rivers, these secluded communities provide the perfect backdrop for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat.
From gold mining history to riverside havens, each town has its own unique charm and stories waiting to be discovered. I’ve found that exploring these places not only reconnects me with nature but also lets me experience the rich culture and history that Tennessee has to offer.
Whether you’re planning a quiet getaway or considering a move to a more tranquil setting, these ten towns are definitely worth a visit. Let’s delve into these hidden gems and uncover what makes each of them special.
10. Greasy Creek: A Secluded Sanctuary
Greasy Creek is a small, remote locale with an approximate population of just a few hundred residents. I love how this area offers vast natural barriers and open spaces, making it perfect for those seeking solitude in Southeast Tennessee.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the unspoiled wilderness that surrounds the town. The main industries here are minimal, with most residents embracing a self-sufficient lifestyle or commuting to nearby towns for work.
What makes Greasy Creek truly secluded is its untouched landscapes and the sense of peace that comes from being far removed from crowded urban areas. This sanctuary allows me to disconnect from the modern world and immerse myself in nature’s tranquility.
Where is Greasy Creek?
Located in Monroe County, Greasy Creek sits quietly amidst the rolling hills and dense forests of Southeast Tennessee. Its seclusion is enhanced by the lack of major roads and its distance from larger cities, making it a hidden retreat few people know about.
To get there, I usually take the smaller county roads that weave through the countryside, enjoying the scenic drive along the way. The remoteness of Greasy Creek makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to escape the noise and distractions of everyday life.
9. Postelle: Hidden Away in Nature’s Embrace
Postelle is a tiny community with an estimated population of less than 200 people. Tucked away in the natural beauty of Polk County, I find that this off-the-grid area offers a peaceful, low-traffic environment perfect for relaxation.
The town is surrounded by expansive undeveloped land, providing ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the serene landscapes. There isn’t much in terms of industry here, which contributes to its quiet ambiance, and residents often rely on neighboring towns for amenities.
Postelle’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the dense forests that envelop it, making it feel like a world apart from the bustling outside world.
Where is Postelle?
Nestled in the heart of Southeast Tennessee, Postelle is situated near the state line bordering North Carolina. Its secluded nature is due to the surrounding Cherokee National Forest, which creates a buffer from larger populations.
I usually access Postelle via winding mountain roads that offer breathtaking views but are less traveled, adding to the sense of isolation. Getting there involves a bit of an adventure through the forested terrain, but the tranquility that awaits makes the journey worthwhile.
8. Ocoee: Adventure and Peaceful Living Combined
With a population of around 1,500 people, Ocoee strikes a unique balance between thrilling outdoor activities and serene seclusion. I enjoy visiting Ocoee for its world-class whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, which hosted the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom events.
Beyond the river’s excitement, the town offers pristine landscapes and minimal development, providing a peaceful atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. There are small businesses catering to tourism and outdoor recreation, but the main industries remain modest.
Ocoee’s seclusion is due to its location amid the mountains and forests, making it a haven for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Where is Ocoee?
Ocoee is located in Polk County, Southeast Tennessee, nestled alongside the Ocoee River and surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. Its secluded feel comes from the dense woodlands and the lack of major urban centers nearby.
I usually reach Ocoee by taking U.S. Route 64, which winds through the scenic landscapes and brings me straight into the heart of this quiet community. The combination of natural barriers and minimal traffic enhances its sense of peace and isolation, making it a perfect getaway spot.
7. Old Fort: Gateway to Appalachian Solitude
Old Fort is a small community with a population of approximately 1,000 residents. Serving as a gateway to the Appalachian Mountains, I’ve found that this town offers an intimate connection with nature far from city life.
Activities here include hiking the numerous mountain trails, exploring local caves, and fishing in clear mountain streams. There’s little in the way of industry, which adds to its quiet charm, and most locals appreciate the simplicity of rural living.
Old Fort’s secluded nature stems from its mountainous surroundings and the limited development in the area, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape modern distractions.
Where is Old Fort?
Situated in Polk County, Old Fort lies at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Southeast Tennessee. Its remote location is accentuated by the winding roads that lead into town, often surrounded by thick forests and steep terrain.
I typically access Old Fort via local highways that meander through the countryside, offering picturesque views along the way. The town’s seclusion is a product of both its geography and its distance from major transportation routes, making it a hidden gem for solitude seekers.
6. Conasauga: Forest Serenity Off the Beaten Path
Conasauga is an exceedingly small community with a population of less than 100 people. Embraced by the vast expanse of the Cherokee National Forest, I’ve found this area ideal for immersing myself in untouched natural surroundings.
Outdoor activities include hiking through old-growth forests, wildlife observation, and enjoying the tranquil Conasauga River. There are virtually no industries here, which contributes to the pristine condition of the environment.
The seclusion of Conasauga is amplified by its limited accessibility and the dense forests that act as a natural barrier from the outside world.
Where is Conasauga?
Conasauga is located in the southeastern corner of Bradley County, bordering Georgia. Its off-the-beaten-path location is reinforced by the lack of major highways and the surrounding wilderness.
When I visit, I navigate through rural roads that cut through the forest, making the journey as much a part of the experience as the destination. The secluded setting of Conasauga provides a peaceful escape where one can truly disconnect from the hustle of everyday life.
5. Farner: A Quiet Hamlet in the Mountains
Farner is a quaint hamlet with an approximate population of 300 residents. Nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, I appreciate how this town offers solitude and a deep connection with nature. Activities include exploring the vast network of hiking trails, fishing in mountain streams, and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
There are few industries in Farner, mainly small-scale agriculture and crafts, which maintain the community’s quiet atmosphere. Its secluded nature comes from both its mountainous terrain and the minimal development, allowing for uninterrupted peace and quiet.
Where is Farner?
Located in Polk County near the Tennessee-North Carolina border, Farner is tucked away in the rolling Appalachian foothills. The town’s isolation is heightened by its distance from larger towns and the winding, narrow roads that lead there.
I often find that getting to Farner involves a scenic drive through lush forests and over gentle mountain passes. The remoteness of Farner makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a serene mountain escape.
4. Turtletown: Woodland Seclusion Near the Ocoee
Turtletown is a small community with around 500 residents, surrounded by dense woodlands and close to the captivating Ocoee River. I find it perfect for those seeking a private escape, with activities like hiking, horseback riding, and exploring local waterfalls.
The area doesn’t have significant industry, which helps preserve its natural beauty and quiet charm. Turtletown’s seclusion is a result of being enveloped by forests and its proximity to national forests, keeping it shielded from the bustle of city life.
Where is Turtletown?
Situated in Polk County, Turtletown is located near the eastern border of Tennessee, close to North Carolina. Its secluded feel is enhanced by the surrounding Cherokee National Forest and the lack of major highways nearby.
When I travel to Turtletown, I take scenic backroads that wind through the mountains and forests, adding to the allure of the journey. The town’s hidden location makes it a peaceful retreat for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature.
3. Delano: Farmlands and Open Skies
Delano is a rural town with a population of approximately 1,500 people, known for its expansive farmlands and rolling hills. I enjoy the stunning panoramic views and the sense of openness that comes from the vast fields and open skies.
Activities here include visiting local farms, attending the Amish market, and exploring the Hiwassee River. Agriculture is the main industry, with many residents involved in farming and produce.
Delano’s seclusion arises from its rural setting and the agricultural lands that stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful haven away from urban centers.
Where is Delano?
Located in Polk County along the banks of the Hiwassee River, Delano is easily accessible yet maintains a secluded atmosphere due to its rural environment. I usually reach Delano via U.S. Route 411, which connects it to larger towns but doesn’t bring the traffic and noise.
The town’s open landscapes and minimal development contribute to its peaceful ambiance, making it a delightful escape into Tennessee’s countryside.
2. Reliance: Riverside Retreat on the Hiwassee
Reliance is a quiet community with a population of less than 200 people, tucked away along the banks of the Hiwassee River. I love how it offers lush forests and a peaceful atmosphere far from urban hustle. Popular activities include kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the scenic river trails.
The main industries revolve around outdoor recreation and small local businesses that cater to tourists seeking nature experiences. Reliance’s seclusion comes from its riverfront location, surrounded by mountains and forests, providing a tranquil setting that feels worlds away from city life.
Where is Reliance?
Reliance is located in Polk County, nestled along the Hiwassee River in Southeast Tennessee. Its secluded nature is magnified by the limited road access and the surrounding Cherokee National Forest.
To get there, I often take winding country roads that offer stunning river views and a sense of serenity. The town’s remoteness and natural beauty make it an idyllic spot for those looking to unwind by the riverside.
1. Coker Creek: Gold Mines and Mountain Tranquility
Coker Creek is a small, unincorporated community with an approximate population of around 150 residents. Nestled in the Cherokee National Forest, I find this hidden gem rich in gold mining history and serene mountain landscapes.
Activities here include gold panning, hiking the Appalachian Trail, and visiting historical sites like the Coker Creek Welcome Center and Heritage Group. There is a small industry centered around tourism, especially for those interested in gold mining and outdoor adventures.
The town’s seclusion is due to its mountainous terrain and the enveloping forest, offering tranquility and a sense of stepping back in time.
Where is Coker Creek?
Located in Monroe County, Coker Creek is situated in Southeast Tennessee near the North Carolina border. Its secluded position is enhanced by the rugged mountains and the absence of major highways nearby.
When I visit, I take scenic routes through the Cherokee National Forest, enjoying the lush landscapes and peaceful surroundings. The journey to Coker Creek is part of its charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a touch of gold rush history.
