The Long Dam Ride
7
ABOUT THE
The Long Dam Ride
It’s no secret – the geography and scenery of Northeast Tennessee wouldn’t be the same without several man-made lakes. The Long Dam Ride leads you through gorges, past rocky cliffs, mountain streams, tranquil lakes, unique sites, and miles of roller-coaster dips and rural charm.
DIRECTIONS
FROM HOLIDAY INN JOHNSON CITY
R – onto N Roan St, 0.4 mi
R – ramp to I-26 W / US 23 N toward Kingsport, 0.2 mi
Merge – I-26 W / US 23 N, 7.0 mi
Exit 13 – TN 75 N / Bobby Hicks Hwy, 0.2 mi
Merge – TN 75 N, 12.1 mi
L – Memorial Blvd, 0.1 mi
R – County Hill Rd, 0.5 mi
Continue – TN 126 E, 377 ft
R – TN 394 E, 12.0 mi
R – US 421 S / Carl Moore Pkwy, 29.2 mi
Continue – US 421 S, 18.5 mi
R – Hwy 67 W / W Main St, 9.6 mi
Continue – Hwy 67 W, 14.0 mi
R – US 19E N / US 321 N, 14.2 mi
L – ramp to US 19E W, 0.2 mi
Merge – US 19E W / US 11E S / US 19W S, 18.3 mi
L – N Roan St, 0.5 mi
Arrive – Holiday Inn Johnson City
SIGHTS ALONG THE WAY
NEARBY
ATTRACTIONS
- The Gift Box – Unique finds and local treasures for any occasion.
- Gray Fossil Site & Museum – Step into prehistory at this active dig site and museum.
- Boone Dam – Scenic overlook and peaceful place to pause near Boone Lake.
- Bristol Motor Speedway – Experience the thrill of NASCAR at the “Last Great Colosseum”, a .533-mile oval track renowned for its high-banked turns and electrifying atmosphere.
- Bristol Cafe & Market – Cozy stop for fresh bites, baked goods, and local goods.
- South Holston and Weir Dams – Twin engineering feats offering impressive views and great photo ops.
- Shady Valley Country Store – A legendary biker stop on “The Snake”, offering fuel, deli eats, and must-have souvenirs.
- Watauga and Wilbur Dams – Tucked into the mountains, perfect for a quiet stop and a dose of history.
- Downtown Elizabethton – A charming historic district with local shops, restaurants, and scenic views of the Watauga River.
- Bella Vita Italian Restaurant – Cozy italian spot with hearty, delicious classics.