We followed the rivers toward Norris Lake , where we stopped at Hickory Star Marina in search of some grub .
We ’ d picked an oppressively hot weekend for our trip . Luckily , ice- cold sweet tea flows here like the area ’ s many rivers , and we had a glass in our hands on the marina ’ s dockside patio in no time , followed by sandwiches . Norris Lake gleams with a vibrant turquoise resulting from the lake ’ s depth and purity .
We continued north , where the road often rose onto a ridge to reveal views of tree- covered mountainsides before dipping down into refreshing shade alongside cool creeks .
We reached Cumberland Gap with time to explore the town before supper . Our lodging for the night was the Olde Mill Inn Bed and Breakfast , built in the late 1800s along a burbling stream that runs through the town .
Left and top right : The Olde Mill Inn in Cumberland Gap was built in the late 1800s and offers a unique step back in time . Bottom right : A short hike from Cumberland Gap took us to the Tri- State Peak , where Tennessee , Kentucky , and Virginia meet .
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