A mill dating to around 1802 and the relocation of Butler to make way for Watauga Lake tell two different stories from Johnson County. The area also offers everything from cultural heritage and hiking trails to places by the water. Johnson County is known as “mountain and lake country” and is shaped by four mountains, three valleys and a lake. The county lies on the north shore of Watauga Lake.
Trails, Water and Scenery
The Gentry Creek Falls Trail runs for 4.5 miles to a double waterfall and crosses the creek 14 times along the way. The waterfall gives the route a clear destination; the number of crossings describes the trail itself. A section of the Appalachian Trail also passes through Johnson County. Together, a trail with a named waterfall destination and a section of the Appalachian Trail represent different hiking experiences in the county.
Doe Mountain Recreation Area offers OHV trails. They offer something different from the hiking trails: if you are looking for an off-highway vehicle route, you will find this option at Doe Mountain. Backbone Rock Recreation Area lies on Beaverdam Creek in northern Johnson County, adding a specifically named waterside location to the region’s natural attractions.
There is also a clearly located fishing spot at Watauga Reservoir: an accessible fishing pier is in the Rat Branch access area. This makes it possible to pair a visit to the reservoir with a specific fishing experience. The pier is a distinct attraction alongside the hiking trails and the county’s other outdoor offerings.
Explore History and Culture
The Butler and Watauga Valley Heritage Museum documents Butler’s relocation to higher ground to make way for Watauga Lake. The town’s history connects the lake to a specific change for Butler and adds a historical theme to the landscape.
Another trace of the past leads to Trade: the Trade Grist Mill was built by Thomas Jones around 1802. It is located on US 421 in the town of Trade, on the Tennessee–North Carolina border, and is clearly visible from the road. Its construction date, builder and location give the mill a clearly defined historical profile; its distinctive setting also makes it easy to spot as you drive by.
Heritage Hall Theatre began as a school auditorium dating to 1923. After restoration, it reopened as Heritage Hall Theatre in September 2005. Today, the theater hosts performances and community events. The local cultural scene thus encompasses both the history of historic buildings and events in a reopened auditorium.
The Johnson County Center for the Arts showcases work by more than 30 Appalachian craftspeople. This focus on regional craft offers a different emphasis from the historic mill and theater: here, the work of a larger group of craftspeople takes center stage.
Routes and More Experiences
The Copperhead Road Landmark is located at Watauga Lake Winery in Butler. Its centerpiece is a custom 1949 Dodge sedan featuring a mural of bluegrass star Tim White. The landmark is part of the self-guided “Bootleggers & Burnouts Trail” driving tour. Check current tour materials before setting out. The Snake 421 Motorcycle and Sports Car Route also passes through Johnson County.
Wine tastings were offered at Villa Nove Vineyards on September 5, 2026; check current operations before visiting. Along with the historic sites, crafts, theater and variety of trails, this gives Johnson County a range of distinct, clearly defined ways to explore.
Explore more destinations: Mountain City, Jefferson County, Decatur County, Union County, Bedford County, Stewart County, Williamson, Cumberland County
For the broader travel overview: Tennessee.
