Explore the Stories and Scenery of Tennessee on the Promised Land Trail

This excerpt of the Promised Land Trail begins in Hermitage, Tennessee at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Step into the world of the nation’s seventh president at The Hermitage, one of the best-preserved presidential homes in the country. Wander the mansion, gardens and grounds to see personal artifacts, original furnishings and powerful exhibits that explore Jackson’s complex legacy. The property stretches across more than 1,000 acres, offering guided tours, walking paths and a look at the enslaved community whose stories are now central to the site’s interpretation. It’s a moving, thoughtfully curated stop that brings early American history to life in Tennessee.

Head 40 minutes "down the road" to Lebanon, Tennessee where Cedars of Lebanon State Park flourishes in Wilson County. 

Named for the dense cedar forests that reminded early settlers of the Biblical Cedars of Lebanon, the Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that weave through rare limestone glades brimming with unique wildflowers and native species found almost nowhere else in the world. Picnic areas, seasonal naturalist programs, an Olympic-size swimming pool and a well-maintained campground make this park a favorite for families and outdoor explorers alike.

40 minutes away, your next stop is a renowned scenic beauty in Dekalb County.

Crystal-clear waters and forested shorelines make Center Hill Lake one of Tennessee’s most scenic reservoirs. Boaters, anglers, paddlers and swimmers flock here for calm coves, excellent fishing and sweeping views of rolling hills. Marinas, boat rentals, picnic spots and nearby trails allow visitors to build the perfect outdoor getaway. 

Take the scenic route 40 minutes north to historic Granville, Tennessee-- a beautiful small town near Nashville.

Step inside T.B. Sutton General Store and you’ll feel like you’ve entered an old-fashioned Tennessee town square. This beloved landmark, famously home to the Sutton Ole Time Music Hour, serves up Southern comfort food, live bluegrass and classic general-store charm. Visitors can browse nostalgic gifts, grab a homemade dessert or settle in for an evening of toe-tapping tunes. It’s a warm, welcoming stop that celebrates community, music and small-town heritage.

Road trip 30 minutes to your next stop in Baxter, Tennessee.

Visit DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards for tastings, tours and a meal. Frolic through 20 acres of beautiful vines and enjoy the regional farmscapes. For an added twist, ask a wine ambassador about the vineyard scavenger hunt and earn yourself a little prize. There’s often live music and special events on the grounds, as well. The Monarch Building also hosts events in a 1920s industrial-chic warehouse venue.

All of this adventure calls for a refreshing pint. Drive 40 minutes to your next stop in Cookeville, Tennessee.

Red Silo Brewing brings craft beer, creativity and Cookeville pride together in one lively downtown taproom. Known for its friendly atmosphere and inventive brews — ranging from fruit-forward ales to rich seasonal stouts — this brewery is a favorite gathering place for locals and travelers alike. Live music, community events and a fun, laid-back vibe make it the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the region.

Continue your Middle Tennessee road trip to White County, 55 minutes away.

Virgin Falls is one of Tennessee’s most captivating natural wonders, known for its dramatic waterfall that emerges from a cave, cascades 110 feet and disappears into a second cavern below. The challenging hike rewards adventurers with rugged beauty — towering cliffs, lush foliage, flowing streams and multiple waterfalls along the way. It’s a bucket-list destination for experienced hikers seeking an unforgettable backcountry experience. The trail to Virgin Falls is approximately 9 miles round-trip and considered strenuous in difficulty.  While there are no permits or registration requirements needed for the hike, be sure to check weather forecasts as rain can impact the trail's accessibility. 

For travelers exploring waterfalls near Sparta, TN, Rock Island State Park, TN, offers a scenic detour to see Twin Falls and enjoy a picnic. A visit to the Twin Falls overlook can provide a shorter waterfall outing than the strenuous trek to Virgin Falls. Families can build their visit around waterfall viewing and time together outdoors.

Flatwater kayaking is another option in the park’s lake section when conditions allow.* Check with park staff about the appropriate launch and current conditions before paddling.

Things to know before going:

• Parking: Confirm directions to the Twin Falls parking area and overlook access before arriving; it is a separate destination from other park facilities.
• Water releases: Releases from Great Falls Dam and the powerhouse can change throughout the day and may occur without warning. Review the park’s water safety guidance, follow posted closures and stay out of restricted areas.
• Planning: Choose your waterfall viewpoint, picnic area or paddling destination in advance so you can allow enough time for the detour.

Calfkiller Brewing Company adds locally made beer and a countryside setting to your Sparta visit. Enjoy the outdoor seating area and browse the company store, where you can pick up a growler to take home. It’s a relaxed stop to pair with downtown exploring or a shorter outdoor outing.

Things to know before going:

• Hours: Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Closed on Sundays
• Tours: Tours are conducted on Saturdays, cost $5 per person and come with a commemorative Calfkiller tasting glass. Contact the brewery online or by calling to book.
• Food: Food trucks regularly stop by Calfkiller Brewing Company and are announced on their Facebook page.

Downtown Sparta makes room for a slower afternoon of shopping, coffee and local art. Browse handmade pottery at Fragrant Mushroom Gallery, stop at The Coffee Collective on the courthouse square or explore downtown shops for a Tennessee-made souvenir. Leave time for a meal and a look around the historic streets before continuing your road trip. Find local options through Explore Sparta’s shopping and dining guide.

The Sparta Drive-In Theatre is one of the best Sparta, TN, attractions to bring nostalgic evening entertainment to your itinerary. Settle in for a movie on the outdoor screen and make a concession stop part of the experience. Check the film lineup and ratings when planning a family visit.

Things to know before going:

• Schedule: Friday and Saturday screenings. Gates opening at 6 p.m. and movies begin at dusk.
• Season: Check the theater’s website for movie showings and seasonal programs before traveling.
• Movies: Review the current lineup before your visit, as listings are subject to change.

Your last stop on this Tennessee Discover Trails and Byways itinerary ends in Smithville, a one-hour drive from Virgin Falls.

Held each July on the historic courthouse square, the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree is a beloved celebration of Appalachian music, dance and craftsmanship. This long-running festival brings performers and artisans from across the region for two days of bluegrass competitions, handmade crafts, food vendors and lively community spirit. It’s a joyful immersion into Tennessee’s folk traditions and one of the state’s most iconic cultural events. In 2026, the festival will be held on July 3rd and July 4th to ring in the America 250 celebration in fiddlin' style. The Smithville Fiddlers' Jamboree is free to the public since 1972.