Nature Road Trip from Knoxville to Mammoth Caves National Park

Day 1: Scenic Drive to Mammoth Caves

Knoxville, Tennessee

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Holly's Gourmets Market

Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Holly's Gourmets Market in Knoxville to fuel up for the scenic drive to Mammoth Caves.
Drive north on I-75 for about 3 hours to reach Mammoth Caves National Park.
$20, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Lunch at Mammoth Caves Visitor Center

Stop at the visitor center to grab lunch before venturing into the caves for exploration.
Visit the cafe located in the visitor center for a quick lunch.
$15, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Mammoth Caves Tour

Embark on a guided tour through the fascinating Mammoth Caves, with your furry friend by your side to witness the natural wonders.
Meet your tour group at the designated area according to your tour reservation.
$30, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Check-In at Lodge

Settle into your pet-friendly lodge or cabin within Mammoth Caves National Park, offering a tranquil retreat after your underground adventure.
Follow signs to the lodging area after completing the cave tour.
$150, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Dinner at Diamond Caverns Restaurant

Indulge in a flavorful dinner at the Diamond Caverns Restaurant, known for its warm ambiance and local cuisine.
Head to Diamond Caverns Restaurant for a satisfying evening meal.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Mammoth Caves

Mammoth Caves National Park, Kentucky

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lodge Restaurant

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the lodge's restaurant before commencing your day of exploration within Mammoth Caves National Park.
Savor your morning meal at the lodge's dining venue.
$15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Hiking in the Hills above Grounds

Embark on a scenic hike in the hills above Mammoth Caves, offering panoramic views and serene trails for you and your four-legged companion.
Drive to the designated hiking area and start your nature-filled adventure.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Picnic by Echo River Springs

Take a break for a leisurely picnic by the tranquil Echo River Springs, providing a peaceful setting for your midday meal.
Drive to Echo River Springs to find a serene spot for your picnic.
$10, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Wildlife Encounters

Spend time wandering through the park, keeping an eye out for the various wildlife that inhabits the region, offering unique sightings.
Explore the designated wildlife viewing areas located throughout the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Relax at Lodge

Unwind back at the lodge, enjoying the serene surroundings or taking a rest before dinner.
Return to your lodge for some relaxation time.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Diamond Caverns Restaurant

Conclude your day with another delightful dinner at the lodge's restaurant, enjoying a satisfying meal to wrap up your adventures.
Head to Diamond Caverns Restaurant for your evening dining experience.
$30, 1 hour
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Day 3: Daniel Boone National Forest & Return to Knoxville

Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky - Knoxville, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lodge Restaurant

Start your day with a final breakfast at the lodge before embarking on your journey to the picturesque Daniel Boone National Forest.
Commence your morning at the lodge's restaurant.
$15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Exploring Natural Arch Scenic Area

Engage in an exploration of the Natural Arch Scenic Area within Daniel Boone National Forest, offering stunning vistas and tranquil pathways to discover.
Drive to the Natural Arch Scenic Area to commence your scenic hike.
Free, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Drive back to Knoxville

Embark on your journey back to Knoxville, relishing the scenic drive and reflecting on the memorable nature-filled moments.
Take the southbound route on I-75 for approximately 2.5 hours to return to Knoxville.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Tomato Head

Pause for a delectable lunch at Tomato Head in Knoxville, known for its fresh and innovative menu selections.
Head to Tomato Head to enjoy a tasty lunch break.
$20, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Market Square

Stroll through Knoxville's iconic Market Square, peruse local shops, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the area.
Find parking near Market Square to kick off your exploration.
$10, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kaizen

Conclude your unforgettable trip with a dinner at Kaizen, a modern Asian-inspired eatery in Knoxville, savoring your final meal of the journey.
Head to Kaizen for a memorable dining experience.
$40, 1.5 hours
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