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Fort Watauga is a historic fortification constructed by early frontier settlers in the Watauga region during the late 18th century. It served as a key defensive outpost designed to protect the community from external threats. It is now open to visitors who want to learn more about the history of the local area.

The Elizabethton Covered Bridge, was built in 1882 over the Doe River It is a 154-foot-long truss bridge that has survived numerous floods, including the 1901 flood and Hurricane Helene in 2024. It is closed to vehicles but open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Gap Creek Road offers a nice alternative to Mary Patton Highway. It is much smaller and less traffic. It also a small country road instead of a highway. It is not as quick as Mary Patton Highway and the highway does have a large shoulder but I find it nicer.

There are two large parking lots at this location. One is specifically for Harmon Park where you will find a nice covered picnic area and a playground for children. The other seems to be for the Carter Compassion Center and a Historical Train. The Carter Compassion Center, located between the two parking lots, is a non-profit that works to alleviate poverty in the area. At the far end of the parking lot you will find a plaque and an old train engine. The plaque gives you information about the history of trains in this area. This is an interesting place to visit or just park your car before a ride.

US E 19 runs on one side of the Doe River and the Old Railroad Grade Road on the other. If you are cycling, the Old Railroad Grade Road is the best option with the river on one side and the mountains on the other. There is very little traffic and you can avoid the noise and cars of US E 19.

Tiger Creek Road is a classic cycling road for this area. It is a winding mountain road with forest all around and not too much traffic. If climbing it, be warned, there are some pretty steep sections. It is fun either up or down.

Ripshin Lake is a beautiful lake right next to the Roaring Creek Road. The lake and the land around it is private so there isn't a park or swimming area but the view of the lake is really nice, especially in the fall with the changing colors of the leaves.

Fort Watauga is actually a reconstruction of the original fort that was here. Each year there are several different educational events that take place here. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park surrounds the fort and is also interesting to visit. It is not far off the Tweetsie Trail, making it an easy and interesting stop while out on a bike.