taking in the trail - tn vacation

nashville area

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For complete visitor information on Tennessee, call 1-800-GO2-TENN

or visit tnvacation.com. 1Find more information at RingOfFireTrail.com.

Pictured on cover: Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Nashville; Mansker’s Station, Goodlettsville; Betsy Bell Marker, Adams. Pictured above: Tobacco Barn, Robertson County; Cyclemos Motorcycle Museum, Red Boiling Springs; Hendersonville Memory Gardens, Hendersonville; Hotel Walton, Carthage; Dale Hollow Lake, Clay County.

Ready foR a Tennessee Road TRip? We’ve

got you covered on the new, self-guided driving trails

of the Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways. On the

Screaming Eagle Trail, you’ll encounter the military history

of the 101st Airborne, tour the home of one of country

music’s leading ladies, sample some of Middle Tennessee’s

best cookin’ and so much more. Pick up a self-guided

map at the nashville Welcome Center or visit

screamingeagleTrail.com. You’ll find the directions,

stops and stories that make the Screaming Eagle Trail a

one-of-a-kind Tennessee road trip you won’t want to miss.

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This is your ticket to the Ring of Fire Trail, a drive stretching from Nashville across the gorgeous Cumberland Plateau and back again. Discover some of Middle Tennessee’s most beautiful scenery as you roll through the hills and farms in the heart of the region. Fall in love with Dale Hollow lake, one of America’s favorite lakes and home of the world’s record small mouth bass; gaze out from high above the breathtaking Cordell Hull Dam; encounter the quiet power of the CumberlanD river. Along the way, you’ll stop in unique, off-the-beaten-path communities. Stay in hotels where Victorian-era vacationers once came to “take a cure” at reD boiling SpringS; taste the best of summer at Portland’s Strawberry Festival; visit charming little towns like Cross Plains, where the local drug store is still the best place to get a cheeseburger. This route explores the territory where early settlers arrived on Avery’s Trace and Walton Road, with forts and homes dating back to the 1700s. It’s also the territory claimed by some of Country muSiC royalty; start your trip with a walk at Fontanel, just outside the hum of Music City. The stories out here are as rich as the sweet smoke billowing from the tobacco-curing barns in the early fall. From settlers and Civil War soldiers to the bell witCH and underwater ghost towns, the spirit of the Ring of Fire Trail will deliver an unforgettable Tennessee experience.

self-guided driving tour

Symbol Key:

Festivals

Great OutdOOrs

Picture sPOt

lOdGinG

MOtOrcycle rOute

civil War live Music venue

state-OWned histOric site

(R) riGht (L) leFtFOOd & Wine

natiOnal reGister OF histOric Places

land trust FOr tennessee

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tennessee Main street PrOGraM

The colorful stories and interesting facts you’ll find along the Ring of Fire Trail have been uncovered with the invaluable help of county tourism partners and historians in these communities.

• These334milesarefullofhistoricsites,preservedhomes and museums that bring the stories of the Ring of Fire Trail to life. Many of them require advance reservations, admission or both to experience our history.

• Many historic buildings remain as private residences; others, like Cragfont and Fort Nashborough, welcome visitors. Be aware that historic sites are often closed for tours during the winter months.

• This is a drive that promises an off-the-beaten-path Tennessee experience. What we can’t promise is steady cell phone service. Don’t be surprised if you don’t always have a signal.

• During the summer and early fall, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stock up on local produce at farms and farm stands between the points of interest along the trail. Many stands are cash-only, so visit the ATM before you hit the road to take advantage of true farm-to-table goodness.

• Don’t forget to visit your favorite online review sites (like tripadvisor.com or yelp.com) and help us blaze a trail to these wonderful hidden gems.

taking in the trail

Welcome to the Ring of Fire Trail.

See tHe Driving tour map

on page 14.

Abbreviation Key:R RightL LeftN NoRthS SouthE eaStW WeStInt. iNteRSectioN

turn right on 5th avenue, circle the block and return to Rosa L. Parks Boulevard. You’ll get a feel for the neighborhood, and find great places to eat and drink, including The Cocoa Tree, DrinkHaus, Monell’s, The Mad Platter and Germantown Café.

9. Fontanel Mansion & Farm – (R) this is a true gem just outside of Nashville. formerly the 136-acre estate of country star Barbara Mandrell, the 27,000-square-foot log home is now used for special events. enjoy over two miles of hiking and biking trails that are free to the public; catch a show at the Woods amphitheater or dine at the fabulous on-site restaurant. Open Tues.-Sun.

Fontanel was the location of CMT’s top-rated Gone Country show hosted by John Rich, and was shown in the film Country Strong starting Gwyneth Paltrow and Tim McGraw.

10. Farm House Restaurant – this delightfully down-home restaurant at fontanel offers a true “farm to fork” menu featuring local produce, dairy and meats. Dine on Southern- style comfort food with a creative twist, like kids’ meals served on frisbees meant for tossing around the grounds after dinner.

11. James Gang General Store & Café – (R)this 1874 former general store and saloon is the spot where James gang member Bill Ryan was arrested and carted off to the Nashville jail. the gang was a notorious band of outlaws headed by frank and Jesse James, known for robbing banks, trains and s t agecoaches . Stop in for a bite at the café or live music in the evenings.

12. Ri’chard’s Louisiana Café – (L) this unassuming joint features “Live Music and Dead crawfish.” Stop in for authentic Louisiana fare and stay for live music — you never know who will take the stage. it’s a favorite of some of Nashville’s best-known residents. Reservations recommended.

that launched hundreds of country music careers. See one-of-a-kind memorabilia, rare photos and video, traveling exhibits and live performances. Don’t forget the gift shop and Two Twenty•Two Grille.

4. Fort Nashborough – the great city of Nashville traces its roots to this site on the banks of the cumberland River. in 1780, James Robertson and a group of early pioneers established a settlement here called fort Nashborough. this reconstruct ion uses the same c o n s t r u c t i o n elements as those early forts, built to house the settlers and their families and protect them from Native american attacks. Open daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Architect William Strickland and politician Samuel Morgan argued throughout the State Capitol’s nine-year construction. Even today, people report eerie arguments from the north- east corner of the building, where both men are entombed in the walls.

The Capitol, Ryman Auditorium, and several other downtown landmarks are featured on Nashville Ghost Tours, offered in the fall. Call 615-884-3999 to learn more.

5. Tennessee State Capitol – (L) Perched on a high hill in Nashville, this massive 1859 limestone structure is one of the most magnificent public buildings of its time. the governor’s office is here, along with the tennessee house and Senate chambers. You’ll find works of art; murals and frescoes by thomas hart Benton; the tomb of President James K. Polk and his wife; and monuments to Presidents andrew Jackson and andrew Johnson, Sergeant alvin York and Sam Davis, the “Boy hero of the confederacy.”

You’ll soon pass Nashville’s iconic 1920s neon Bruton Snuff sign on the left, now attached to the U.S. Tobacco processing center, a primary destination for the dark-fired tobacco grown along the Ring of Fire Trail.

6. Bicentennial Mall State Park – (R) as urban Nashville boomed in the late 1950s and early 1960s, the ground here was too soft for high-rise construction due to the historic salt lick that had originally attracted the wildlife, Native americans, trappers and settlers to the area. this park was created in the 1990s to save the one remaining view of the capitol and to commemorate tennessee’s 200th birthday. Visit this 19-acre park, stroll the “Pathway of history” and splash in 31 fountains, all tributes to tennessee’s waterways.

On the Bicentennial Mall, you’ll see a granite map of Tennessee’s historic “trails,” from Native American paths to modern-day Interstates.

7. Nashville Farmers Market – (R) Since the early 1800s, the farmers market has been a vital part of Nashville life. Stop in to visit local farmers and produce re-sellers; grab a bite at one of the Market House restaurants; visit on the weekend and browse the Flea Market. tourists love the “Nash Trash” comedy tours departing from this spot — hop on the pink bus here.

Nearby Fisk University is home to the legend-ary Fisk Jubilee Singers. The a cappella group dates back to 1871, when they embarked on a singing tour to raise funds for the historic African-American college, established following the Civil War.

8. Germantown Historic District – this 18- square-block area was Nashville’s first sub-division, known as the 9th Ward. Some of these buildings date back to the 1830s. the area is home to unique local businesses and beautiful churches, urban charm, a rich sense of history and the legendary oktoberfest street fair every fall. as you

32 Find more information at RingOfFireTrail.com.See Ring of Fire Trail map on page 14.

This mid-sized city draws people from all over the world, eager to stroll the sidewalks of Broadway, duck into the famous honky tonks, and walk in the footsteps of country music’s greats. This thriving district has something for everyone, from pool halls and pub fare to great meals and family fun; shopping and souvenirs to world-class sporting events. This has truly always been the heart of the city, and right on the banks of the Cumberland River sits Nashville’s beginning — the site of the original Fort Nashborough. Led here by James Robertson, this is where the city’s first settlers lived. Looking out over the river and behind the fort at the bustling downtown is an interesting reminder of the changes Nashville has seen — from humble fort to modern skyscrapers, pioneers to performers — since the late 1700s.

downtown nashville

501 Broadway Nashville 615-259-4747

Turn R on Broadway, turn L on 5th Ave N. to pt. 2.115 fifth ave. N. Nashville 615-458-8700

Walking: Return to Broadway & 5th Ave. N. Walk S on 5th Ave. to pt. 3.Driving directions differ due to one-way streets: Go N on 5th Ave. N., turn R on Commerce St. Turn R on 4th Ave. N., go 3 blocks to Demonbreun St., turn R to pt. 3. 222 fifth ave. S. Nashville 615-416-2001

Note: While parked in downtown, you can also visit pts. 111 & 112 on pg. 27.

Turn R on Demonbreun St. Turn L on 1st Ave., go about 3 blocks to pt. 4. 170 first ave. N. Nashville

Turn L on Church St., turn R on 5th Ave. N. Turn L on Charlotte Ave. to pt. 5.600 charlotte ave. Nashville 615-741-2692

Continue W on Charlotte Ave. Turn R on Rosa L. Parks Blvd./ US-41A to pt. 6.600 James Robertson Pkwy. Nashville 615-741-5280

Pt. 7 is located beside pt. 6.900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. Nashville 615-880-2001

Continue N on Rosa L. Parks Blvd./US-41, turn R on Monroe St. to pt. 8. Between hume St., Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Jefferson St. & 3rd ave. N.Turn R on 5th Ave., circle block and return to Rosa L. Parks Blvd.

Turn R on Rosa L. Parks Blvd./US-41, continue N on US-41 for approx. 10 miles. Turn R on Lloyd Rd., turn L on Whites Creek Pk. to pts. 9 & 10. 4225 Whites creek Pk. Whites creek 615-724-1600

4225 Whites creek Pk. Whites creek 615-724-1601

Turn R onto Whites Creek Pk./US-431. Go less than 1 mile to pts. 11 & 12.4409 Whites creek Pk. Whites creek 615-876-8668

4420 Whites creek Pk. Whites creek 615-299-9590Interstate Access: I-24W, exit 40 (TN-45N). Turn L on Old Hickory Blvd. Pt. 12 is at corner of Old Hickory Blvd. & Whites Creek Pk.

DIRECTIONSDIRECTIONS Park near the visitor center, and walk to visit points 1-4.

1. Downtown Nashville Visitor Center

Ring of fire starts here in downtown Nashville. Stop in for tips and info on area attractions, and hear live performances in the heart of Music city.

2. Ryman Auditorium – (L) originally the union gospel tabernacle, this 1892 church became an enter-tainment venue, presenting operas, vaudeville shows and top artists in the early 1900s. the auditorium is best known as the former home of the Grand Ole Opry, which performed here from 1943-74 before moving to the current grand ole opry house. Stop in to tour the venue and visit the museum and gift shop.

3. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum – (L) get an intimate look at america’s music, just blocks from the honky tonks

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memorializes John and Lucy Bell, who are reportedly buried along with children and several slaves on private property in Robertson county.

John Bell, Jr., son of John Bell, is buried at Bellwood. He served as speaker of the house before the Civil War, and was a presidential candidate in 1860 — the election was won by Abraham Lincoln.

22. Springfield – this historic town was once a busy railroad stop, with farmers coming from all over Robertson and nearby counties to send tobacco and whiskey on to Nashville and beyond. today, it’s a charming community featuring unique shopping and dining.

23. S p r i n g f i e l d Historic District – take a picturesque trip through the past with wide, tree-lined streets

a deep dark-fired tobacco heritage. it’s best known for the famous Bell Witch haunting, a reputation it celebrates with festivals and acclaimed theatrical perfor-mances of Smoke, every May and Spirit, every october.

18. Red River Canoe – (L) experience tennessee’s natural beauty with a float down the Red River, starting here in adams. the river is moderately shallow along the route, with plenty of sandbars and places to picnic. RV and primitive camping is also available, and locals love the “float ‘n’ feed,” a canoe trip that includes a full down-home BBQ meal. float trips end at Port Royal State Park (point 16).

You can launch your own canoe next to point 18 and float 7.52 miles down to point 16. This takes about 3-5 hours.

19. Bell Witch Cave & Canoe Rentals – (R) take a tour of the eerie Bell Witch cave, located on the original Bell family farm. Learn more about the legend of the Bell Witch, and see a replica of the Bell family log cabin. Tours by appointment, May-Oct. Not accessible during or after heavy rain.

20. Old Bell School – (L) this 1920s school building stands on part of the original Bell family farm. the grounds hold a pavilion and several historic buildings relocated here, including an original log cabin. the site plays host to festivals and per formances, including the annual thresherman’s Show in July and a bluegrass competition in late summer. inside, you’ll find the Adams Antique Mall, School House Cafeteria & Tea Room, and Adams Museum & Archives.

21. Bellwood Cemetery – (L) this cemetery is the resting place for many Bell family descendents. the obelisk in the center

15. Wessyngton Plantation – (L) (Private Residence) Straight ahead you’ll see what was once the main home on Wessyngton Plantation, founded in 1796 by Joseph Washington, a distant cousin of america’s first president. Relying on a large slave labor force, it was once one of the largest tobacco planta-tions in the u.S.

You’ll pass the turnoff to Maxey Road on your left as you head toward Adams. About a mile down this road is historic Glen Raven, one of the last large-scale tobacco plantations in Tennessee, founded by Felix Ewing, a prominent figure in the Black Patch Tobacco Wars. The 2,500-acre estate once included its own school, church, store, grist mill, and even electrical and telephone system. If you decide to explore Maxey Road, Ridge Road Antiques is about 3.5 miles from Glen Raven.

16. Port Royal State Park – this historic area was once an important trading post in the early 1800s, and is an official site on the trail of tears National historic trail. the former 1850s general store building is the only structure that remains of this once-thriving river town, which vanished as railroad and auto-mobile travel eclipsed steamboat activity. Stop here to take in the state’s quiet natural beauty as you drive up to adams, or take a canoe trip starting at point 18 — you’ll pass this spot as you paddle.

The town of Port Royal planned to build a silk factory in the 1840s. Thousands of mulberry trees were planted around the settlement to feed the silkworms, a mill and dam were built, and a resident was sent to England with town funds to purchase equipment. He never returned, and the mill was never built.

17. Adams – this quiet town was once a busy place, receiving visitors and travelers moving along a popular route between Miami and chicago. the shifting railroad lines and the opening of the modern-day interstate system slowed life here — today it’s a primarily agricultural community with

13. Honeysuckle Hill Farm – this family farm has some-thing for everyone and offers visitors a chance to come face to face with farm life, animals and fun. Seasonal.

The famous Hinkle chairs are made in Springfield. Since 1834, five genera-tions of the Hinkle family have continued the tradition which now includes rockers sold at Cracker Barrel.

14. Douglas & Company / BP – (R) it may look like any other gas station, but inside you’ll find a one-of-a-kind experience. the owners smoke their own meats out back and serve a best-kept-secret BBQ that keeps the locals coming back for more. take a seat in a hinkle chair and don’t miss the banana pudding.

In the fall, farmers typically light the tobacco barns before dinner, creating a thick, sweet-smelling “fog” of dark-fire tobacco at dusk.


It’s one of the most famous ghost stories in America, and it happened in Adams. In the summer of 1817, strange and dramatic events began to take place on John Bell’s farm as an otherworldly force began terrorizing the family with physical assaults and verbal taunts. She identified herself as Kate Batts, a deceased neighbor with whom John had a dispute years earlier. A neighbor convinced Bell to launch an investigation that drew many to the area, including Andrew Jackson, who experienced the haunting first hand when his coach wheels stopped mysteriously in the road until she let him pass. John Bell died of a mysterious poisoning, for which Kate took the credit. It is believed that

the witch finally left the family after John’s death (pictured) — but not before torturing his daughter, Betsy

(pictured), and keeping her from the man she loved. Kate retreated into a cave on the property where even today eerie events continue to occur.

bell witch

The Ring of Fire and surrounding area produces almost all of the dark-fired tobacco in the U.S.; it’s cured inside closed barns heated by a constant, smoldering fire and used for snuff, pipe and chewing tobacco. As you drive this trail, you’ll see these curing barns dotting the fields; in the fall, it’s not uncommon to see curing smoke billowing from the roofs and walls. Dark-fire curing is more art than science, producing a smoky blend that only comes with experience and a feel for the craft. Most tobacco grown in the U.S. is burley tobacco, a medium-light colored leaf that is cured by air-drying; it’s used primarily

to make cigarettes. Burley is a $20 million industry in Macon County, the #1 burley tobacco producing county in the entire U.S. Get a hands-on lesson about tobacco production at the Robertson County History Museum (point 26) and the Trousdale County Museum (point 81).

smoke on the Ring of fiRe

OFF-TRAIL

BACK ON TRAIL

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OFF-TRAIL

BACK ON TRAIL

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From US-431, follow signs to pt. 13.1765 Martins chapel church Rd. Springfield 615-382-7593Reverse route back to US-431, turn L to rejoin trail.

From pt. 12, follow US-431/Tom Austin Hwy to pt. 14 on corner of Mt. Zion Rd./TN-257.2622 tom austin hwy Springfield 615-384-0966Exit pt. 14 by turning R on Mt. Zion Rd./TN-257.

Continue W for 8 miles on Mt. Zion Rd./TN-257; it becomes Flewellyn Rd. when you cross over US-49. Continue on Flewellyn Rd., at end, turn R onto Old Washington Rd. to pt. 15.flewellyn Rd. & old Washington Rd. Continue N on Old Washington Rd., turn L onto Kinneys Rd./ Hwy 1012.

From pt. 15, turn L onto Old Washington Rd., turn L onto Kinneys Rd./Hwy 1012/TN-256 to pt. 17.

Follow Kinneys Rd./ TN-256 into Adams (pt. 17), veer L onto TN-76. Go approx. 8 miles, turn R on TN-238/Port Royal Rd. Follow signs to pt. 16. 3300 old clarksville hwy adams 931-358-9696Return to TN-76 and head back toward Adams (pt. 17). Turn L on Church St., turn L on US-41/TN-11 to pt. 18.

Turn R onto Church St./TN-76E, turn L onto US-41. Go approx. 1 mile to pt. 18.8002 hwy 41N adams 615-696-2768

Turn R back onto US-41, retracing route approx. 1 mile. Turn L onto Keysburg Rd.; follow signs to pt. 19.430 Keysburg Rd. adams 615-696-3055

Retrace route on Keysburg Rd. back to US-41. Turn L onto US-41 to pt. 20.7617 hwy 41N adamsadams antique Mall: 615-696-1222School house cafeteria: 615-696-1224

Pt. 21 is just past pt. 20.hwy 41N adams

From pt. 21, turn L onto US-41/TN-11/76, go 5 miles. Turn R on N. Main St., veer L onto Old Washington Rd. Turn L onto Kinneys Rd., go 6.3 miles, turn L onto W. 5th Ave./TN-49 to pts. 22 & 23.

5th ave. Springfield

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Interstate Access: I-24W, exit 19 (TN-256). Head NW toward Adams.

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and more. Meet the gammon family, have a cup of coffee with fresh cream, and view the working dairy farm from the observation window inside the store.

33. Sumner Crest Winery – (L) Stop in for daily tours and sample wines made on the premises from grapes grown in Sumner county’s vineyards. Stay awhile and browse in the antique and gift shop, and admire the classic car collection on the grounds.

The 1986 film The Last Days of Frank and Jesse James, starring Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Kris Kristofferson and David Allen Coe featured scenes shot in nearby Orlinda and on the Springfield Courthouse Square (point 24).

34. Portland – this town is perched on the highland Rim, an area known for its rich soil. Like many of the towns on the Ring of fire, the climate and soil were perfect for growing dark-fired tobacco. in the 1920s, Portland was gaining a reputation for a different crop, with its farmers providing about 20 percent of the national market for strawberries. the town celebrates its strawberry heritage every May with a popular festival.

In 2008, Portland created the world’s longest straw-berry shortcake to be included in the Guinness Book of world Records. It took 150 volunteers to assemble the 325-foot dessert, which was made from 329 boxes of cake mix, 288 quarts of strawberries, and 96 pounds of sugar.

35. Portland Chamber of Commerce

(L) Visit this resource on Main Street for local info and tips on exploring the city.

Portland’s original name was Richland. There were two communities in Tennessee named “Richland,” causing railroad confusion. The town became Portland in 1888.

28. J. Travis Price Park / Springfield Greenway Trailhead – (L) Visit this well-kept city park’s picnic shelters and historic log cabin, then hop on the Springfield greenway. the 3- mile, paved path is an opportunity to slow down and take in the natural beauty of the area.

Just outside of Cross Plains, off Hwy 25 before point 29, Carr’s Wild Horse & Burro Adoption Center boards and finds homes for thousands of wild equines — descendents of animals turned loose by the U.S. Cavalry, ranchers, or prospectors over a century ago. They are collected from federal land in the West, where their growing population threatens the eco-system, and brought here to Tennessee. The center’s owners are both members of the Cowboy Hall of Fame.

29. Villines Cemetery – (R) Visit the burial place of thomas Kilgore, Robertson county’s first white settler, who journeyed here on foot at age 63 to claim 640 acres of land in what was then North carolina. a true pioneer, Kilgore weathered many hard- ships that are unimaginable today — and lived to be 107 years old. the stones in this cemetery date back over 200 years, marking the graves of some of the area’s other original settlers.

Thomas Kilgore died on the return end of a 20-mile walk to Gallatin, on an errand to have his gun repaired. Legend has it that the night he died, he danced a jig in a Cross Plains hotel and later passed away in his sleep. In his 100+ years, he never rode a horse or rode in a wagon.

30. Cross Plains – the first settlement in Robertson county, this 225-year-old village is home to historic buildings and unique shops. take some time to experience Cottontown

featuring beautifully restored historic homes. the buildings date as far back as 1833 and feature a variety of architectural styles, many included on the National historic Register.

First Presbyterian Church was used as a stable by Union cavalry during the Civil War; horseshoe gouges can still be seen in the original sanctuary floor.

24. Springfield Courthouse Square – the 1879 Robertson County Courthouse is the heart of the public square. a 2006 renovation provided a much-needed facelift, but the original interior walls are still intact. the courthouse is bordered by the city’s original commercial district, which once included Pitt Brothers’ Whole-sale & Retail Whiskey house on Main Street. today, it’s a collection of renovated buildings from the 19th century with great local businesses like Tricia’s on the Square and Burdett’s Tea Shop & Trading Company.

25. Robertson County Chamber of Commerce

Stop in during business hours for brochures, maps, and other visitor info, and view local artwork in the Chamber Art Gallery.

26. Robertson County History Museum – the restored interior of this 1915 post office is worth a visit on its own. the museum in-side is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers and is full of artifacts and collections that tell the stories of the county, featuring antique tobacco farming equip-ment and a “Main Street” display of scenes reconstructed using turn-of-the-century items. The Washingtons of Wessyngton Plantation by John f. Baker, Jr. is available at the gift shop. Open Wed.-Fri.

27. The Depot Bar & Grill – (R) Locals love the steaks, seafood, burgers and pasta served in this remodeled train depot.

Bears, The Doctor’s House Museum and other gift shops and restaurants in the downtown area.

31. Thomas Drugs – Don’t miss this full- service pharmacy and soda fountain, in business since the early 1900s in downtown. the interior still features many original details and working antique fixtures, like the 1930s soda fountain. order a burger and a hand-dipped milkshake and shop for local products and artisan goods. take a seat at the counter or on the front porch bench to truly experience life in cross Plains.

32. Gammon Dairy Farm /Chase’s Corner Store – (L) Located on a family-run dairy farm, stop in for natural, farm-fresh milk, home-sewn gifts, seasonal vegeta-bles, farm-raised beef, local honey, homemade breads,


In the early 1800s, distilling whiskey had become a popular industry along the Ring of Fire Trail thanks to good conditions for growing corn, access to firewood and wood for barrels, and plenty of options for river transport. Demand for the product was high; it was used as a drink, an anesthetic, a disinfectant and a general tonic. As it became more available and more popular, so did its abuses. Temperance advocates tried to squelch its production in Tennessee; production was halted instead by the Civil War, when corn was needed to feed people and livestock in uncertain times. The war ended in 1865, and soon there were more stills than before, providing a quick profit with low overhead. Robertson County’s Woodard Distillery and Greenbrier Distillery were major producers, using locally grown corn to make the sour mash and selling their product along 2nd Avenue in Nashville. Every Tennessee distillery was shut down in 1909 when the state prohibited the manufacture of whiskey; the only two to reappear

after prohibition were Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel’s.

Tour both distilleries on The Jack Trail: Sippin’ to Saddles.

distilleRies

Pitt Brothers Log Distillery now located at point 28.

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7802 hwy 25e cross Plains 615-654-3877

From pt. 31, take 2nd L onto E. Robertson Rd. Go 3.7 miles, turn R on TN-52. Turn L on Highland Rd. to pt. 32.5766 highland Rd. orlinda 615-654-8621

Reverse your route to TN-52 and turn L. Travel 3.6 miles to pt. 33. 5036 old hwy 52 Portland 615-325-4086

Continue E on TN-52 to pt. 34.Interstate Access: From Nashville, I-65N, exit 117.

Turn L onto TN-109/ S. Broadway, go 1 block, turn R on Main St. Pt. 35 is immediately on L.106 Main St. Portland 615-325-9032

N. Main St. Springfield 615-384-2476Park and walk to visit points 24-26.

503 W. court Sq. Springfield 615-384-3800

124 W. 6th ave. Springfield 615-382-7173

From sq., head W on Main St. a few blocks to pt. 27.1007 S. Main St. Springfield 615-382-8584

Retrace route to 5th Ave., turn R onto E. 5th Ave./ TN-49. Turn L onto Memorial Blvd./US-431/31. Turn R onto Blackwood Dr., go 1.2 miles, turn L into pt. 28.4155 Wilks Rd. Springfield 615-382-1655Blackwood Dr. becomes Wilks Rd. where you exit park. Turn L out of pt. 28 onto Wilks Rd.

Go approx. 1 mile, turn L onto TN-49. Go 4.7 miles to TN-49/25 split; take TN-25 approx. 5 miles to pt. 29. hwy 25e cross Plains

Turn R on TN-25, go E for 1.2 miles to pt. 30. cottontown Bears 7781 hwy 25e cross Plains 615-654-9228the Doctor’s house Museum 7821 hwy 25e cross Plains 615-654-2228Park and walk to visit points 30 & 31.

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burned. charming boutiques make this a particularly great stop for collectors. Visit Key Park to see an authentic log cabin, and don’t pass up your chance to have a meal at Gibson’s Café.

43. Union Camp Waterfall – (L) Just behind the union Missionary Baptist church, these falls were the site of a union soldiers’ camp during the civil War. The falls are on private property about an eighth of a mile behind the church, but respectful visitors are welcome.

44. Red Barn Winery – (L) Perched on the highland Rim, this 100-acre agricultural farm winery is a great place to relax. Spend some time in the tast-ing room, housed in what once was the farm’s tobacco barn, and learn more about winemaking in the tennessee countryside.

Daniel Boone is said to have crossed through here in 1775, reportedly carving his name and the date in a tree.

45. Red Boiling Springs – this town sprang up around a bubbling spring, when reports of the water’s healing powers spread throughout the area in the mid-1800s. Between the 1860s and early 1900s, this was a flourishing resort town built around the many types of mineral water found here. People came from the cities and rural areas alike to relax and partake, and nine grand hotels and many boarding houses operated here. You’ll see three that remain on the trail.

Red Boiling Springs is named for the first healing spring to be discovered. Settlers noticed it was reddish in color, and the water’s movement made it appear to be boiling.

This area is still famous for its waters; the Nestle bottling plant will be on your left as you travel into town on Hwy 52. Water from Bennett Hill Spring is bottled as Nestle Pure Life Purified Water.

46. Jesse T’s Trading Post – (L) this one-of-a-kind junk shop is a picker’s dream. find a little bit of everything, including state license plates dating back to 1916.

47. Grandpa’s House – (L) this unique farm-house shop is a part of the Ritter farm, operated by three generations of family. through grandpa’s house and the popular “how’d Dey Do Dat?” Day, the family has spent over 63 years continuing crafting traditions born on the farm: carving, quilting, black-smithing, pottery, storytelling and more. Stop in for local crafts, artwork, and a taste of rural heritage. Open Fri. & Sat.

36. 5 Chefs Restaurant & Occasions Gifts – (R) Located in a restored Victorian home, this “meat and three” eatery is known for its delicious desserts. after lunch, find a special treasure in the gift shop. Lunch only.

Restaurants offering Southern comfort food are often termed a “meat and three” because diners select one meat and three vegetables from the daily menu.

37. Cold Springs Schoolhouse in Richland Park – Built in 1857, this one-room schoolhouse became a hospital for soldiers and re-opened for students after the civil War. today, the school has been relocated in Richland Park and is restored as a museum of local history featuring war memorabilia. Open by appointment.

38. The Little Tunnel – Built in 1886, this tunnel was part of a chesapeake & Nashville Railroad line connecting gallatin

to Scottsville, Kentucky. it was known as the “shortest railroad tunnel in the u.S.” measuring just 46 feet and 6 inches in length, 13 inches shorter than the famous Bee Rock tunnel in Virginia.

This stretch of highway is home to Tennessee’s famous TN-52 Yard Sale.

39. Lafayette – this small town is one that never saw the railroad cross through it, and was a fairly isolated farm community until hwy 52 connected it to neighboring towns. it’s the seat of Macon county, which continues a strong tradition of growing burley tobacco.

40. Drury Ridge (Peddler’s Ridge) – (L) take a short drive along this natural plateau and find yourself several hundred feet higher than the land below. Looking to your left down the ridge from here is beautiful any time of year, but is particularly stun-ning in the fall and known for its Smoky Mountain-esque quality. there’s no specific parking spot — just enjoy the view as you pass, then retrace your route back to hwy 52.

41. Macon County Welcome Center

(R) this new facility is home to the Macon County Chamber of Commerce. View artwork by Macon county artists, and pick up brochures and other materials on local attractions.

Just a few miles north of Lafayette’s Square on Hwy 10 is the Macon Drive-In Theater, one of only 12 remaining in the state and about 400 in the entire U.S.

42. Lafayette Courthouse Square – Visit this traditional Southern square surrounding the 1933 Macon County Courthouse, the fourth to stand on this spot after the first three


This area of Tennessee and Southern Kentucky is known as the “Black Patch” for its dark-fired tobacco crops. It was also the site of one of the most serious domestic threats since the Civil War. In the early 1900s, growers formed the Planters’ Protective Association (PPA), an effort to command a higher price by collectively keeping their crop off the market. The PPA wasn’t as powerful as they’d imagined. Not all growers joined; those who didn’t were labeled “hillbillies.” The buyers’ organizations, which they called “the Trust,” held their own powerful monopoly. Frustrated, they formed groups to call on the hillbillies and the Trust, but the visits soon turned violent. The group became known as the “Night Riders,” a secret fraternal society. The groups were known to salt tobacco fields, destroy crops, kill livestock,

burn property, and even capture entire towns. Though the PPA denied any association with the vigilantes, their efforts kept prices up for a few years. The Black Patch Tobacco Wars ended with the disbanding of the PPA as European exports ceased with World War I.

black Patch tobacco waRs

People in the 19th century felt — and many still do — that mineral spring waters held curative powers and health benefits. Resort towns like Red Boiling Springs popped up around the springs, drawing the wealthy from the cities to drink and bathe in the water that bubbled from the earth. In the summers, patrons flocked to the towns as an escape as much as for a cure; spas were typically located in peaceful mountain areas that stayed a little cooler than the populated cities. The towns prospered as vacation spots as the Victorian era blurred the lines between health and recreation. As for Red Boiling Springs, visitors flocked here for sulfur water cures; sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral that gives the water its pungent smell. Four types of sulfur water were offered in the hotels and resorts at Red Boiling Springs. Red water gave the town its name, and was used to treat kidney and bladder ailments. Black water was ingested to treat stomach ailments. “Double and Twist” water was served in the mornings as a laxative, and white water was seen as an all-purpose water to improve health. When you visit

Armour’s Hotel (point 50), ask to see the sulfur water baths still intact from the town’s boom days. The health resort era saw rapid decline in the 1940s, as new technology and automobile travel gave tourists and vacationers access to other types of attractions.

mineRal sPRings ResoRts

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Retrace route to TN-109, turn R on S. Broadway/TN-109. Turn L onto McGlothlin St. to pt. 36.103 W. Mcglothlin St. Portland 615-325-9508

Turn L onto W. McGlothlin St., cross TN-109, cross Russell St., road becomes Wheeler St. Follow curve to L, road becomes Portland Blvd. Turn R just after library to pt. 37.303 Portland Blvd. Portland 615-325-9032

Exit park to Russell St. Turn L on S. Russell St., turn L onto TN-52E. Go approx. 15 miles, turn R onto Sumner Dr. Turn L on Tunnel Rd., turn L on Bledsoe St.; drive over pt. 38 to overlook.

Continue W on Tunnel Rd. Turn R on Sumner Dr., turn R on TN-52. Go 9.85 miles to int. with Old Hwy 52, turn R. In approx. 1.25 miles, veer L onto Drury Ridge Rd. Go approx. 0.8 mile and look to L at pt. 40. Drury Ridge Rd. LafayetteFind a spot to turn around; retrace route to TN-52.

Go E on TN-52 for 0.8 mile to pt. 41. 685 hwy 52 Bypass W Lafayette 615-666-5885

Continue E on TN-52, turn L on TN-10. Go N on TN-10/College St. to pt. 42.Public Sq. Lafayette

Return to TN-52, head E. Turn R onto Brown’s Ln., turn L onto Union Camp Rd./TN-262. Go 2.9 miles to Union Missionary Baptist Church. Pt. 43 is behind church.4789 union camp Rd. Lafayette

Return to TN-52, turn R. Continue E for 6.5 miles, turn R on Loftis Rd. Turn L on Tanyard Rd., go 1 mile to pt. 44.1805 tanyard Rd. Lafayette 615-688-6012

Return to TN-52, turn L. Go 5 miles to pt. 46.2252 Lafayette Rd./ hwy 52 Bypass Red Boiling Springs 615-699-3877

Turn L to continue on TN-52. Go 1.8 miles, turn R onto Oak Grove Rd. Continue approx. 1.5 miles to pt. 47.2217 oak grove Rd. Red Boiling Springs 615-699-2738

57. Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery – (R) on your way to the dam, visit the aquarium and museum at this site to learn all about its history and function. get up close and personal with the species of native warm water fish used to stock the tennessee Valley authority lakes in tennessee, georgia and alabama.

58. Dale Hollow Dam – constructed to control flooding, generate power, and improve water quality along the obey’s banks, Dale hollow Dam and the 52,000-acre lake it created are one of the country’s top vacation spots for fishermen and water lovers today. as you drive across the dam, look to your left for a gorgeous view of the lake and to your right for a breathtaking picture of the obey River flowing through the valley.

Want to spend some time on the lake? Find a nearby marina on page 16 to rent a pontoon boat for the day or a houseboat for the week.

59. Standing Stone State Park – this 10,000- acre park is one of tennessee’s gems. even if you don’t step foot out of your car, it’s a gorgeous drive in any season. activities here include camping, hiking, rental cabins, a pool and playgrounds; your rollercoaster route goes straight through the park and over the dam, catching some of the prettiest scenery in the upper cumberland Plateau. Don’t miss the historic 1808 home of pioneer Moses fisk, located at the park’s entrance.

The National Rolley Hole Marbles Championship & Festival, a specific kind of marble-shooting contest, is held in Standing Stone State Park every September. The tournament draws international attention and has been covered by ESPN.

56. Free Hill Community & School – (L) it was here that Virginia hill, a slave owner, acquired 2,000 acres; she moved all of her slaves here and set them free, creating a community unlike any other in the South at that time. following the civil War, many african-americans relocated here as well. the school was a part of the Rosenwald School Building Program, an initiative that funded build-ings constructed by and for african-americans in the early 1900s. at the time this one was built in the late 1920s, one in every five rural schools for african-american students in the South was a Rosenwald School.

The Rosenwald School Building Program, founded by Sears, Roebuck & Co.’s Julius Rosenwald and guided by Booker T. Washington, provided seed grants for the construction of more than 5,300 schools, shops, and teachers’ houses in 15 states. See other former Rosenwald Schools on Sunny Side: Early Country Trail and White Lightning: Thunder Roads to Rebels Trail.

48. Thomas House – (R) this grand, Victor ian-style hotel has been an important landmark since 1890. Stop inside and request a tour; the owners will be happy to show you around the first floor, furnished with antiques, historic photos and artifacts from the hotel’s days as a luxury spa retreat. this particular hotel has a reputation for being haunted by “Sara” and other ghosts and spirits. the story has been featured on a&e’s Paranormal State.

49. The Donoho Hotel – (R) this 1914 hotel’s massive front porch has been the perfect place to slow down for almost a century. one of the surviving Red Boiling Springs resorts from the early 1900s, it is still a functioning hotel in the spring and summer months, specializing in weddings and events and featuring live music once a week. Hotel closed during winter months.

Sulfur water is an ancient remedy still used today to treat many ailments, including acne, arthritis, psoriasis and other skin ailments.

50. Armour’s Hotel – (L) this massive 14-room hotel is the only surviving Red Boiling Springs resort untouched by fire or flood in its nearly 100-year history. it’s also the only one in tennessee that still offers authentic mineral baths, flowing from the nearby springs into vintage cast-iron tubs in the spring house on the side of the hotel. Stop in for a tour of this lovingly remodeled hotel, admire the extensive collection of antiques, and take in the view of Salt Lick creek, the Donoho hotel, and thomas house from the front porch.

51. Cyclemos Motorcycle Museum – (L) Whether you ride regularly or just respect the idea of flying down the high-way on two wheels,

you’ll appreciate this stop. it’s the only motorcycle museum in tennessee, tucked between mountain vistas and winding country roads. the unique collection includes antiques, memorabilia, vintage bikes, and an amazing restoration shop, plus a great selection of gear and clothing.

52. Celina – Sitting at the confluence of the obey and c u m b e r l a n d Rivers, celina was once an important riverboat stop-over for the timber industry. the town was named for the daughter of Moses fisk, one of the founders of the county and a pioneer of education. the rivers that helped to build the town also periodically devastated it with floods; in the 1940s, the u.S. army corps of engineers dammed the obey to create nearby Dale hollow Lake.

The term “drifter” may have originated in Clay County; logs often fell from the boats carrying timber, and local men would hold them to return to the buyer — but not without a fee.

53. Downtown Celina – this town square, featur-ing the 1872 Clay County Courthouse, is a great place to stretch your legs and explore, especially for the antique-curious. Most businesses closed on Wed.

54. Cumberland River Sutlery – Wondering what civil War- era ladies’ clothing looked like up close? Stop in this shop, where they hand-make beautifully detailed replica dresses and accessories used in re-enactments, films, and festivals.

55. Clay County Museum – Stop here to see an early law office of cordell hull (see box on page 19); learn more about river history, Dale hollow Lake and the town of celina.


THE RING OF FIRE TRAIL CONTINuES ON pAGE 19.

For decades, residents of the towns along the Obey River lived in fear of flooding, as the river swelled out of its banks regularly, damaging and destroying homes, farms and businesses and putting economies in danger. In the 1940s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed the Dale Hollow Dam across the river to control the flooding; the dam also used the water’s power to generate electricity for the area. The Corps’ plans for the lake’s creation weren’t well received by everyone, however. The little town of Willow Grove (pictured) sat right in the lake’s path, and didn’t want their schools, churches and homes to be underwater. They fought the plan unsuccessfully, and were heartbroken to scatter their entire town — including the dead

in their cemeteries — to higher ground. Willow Grove is known as the “Atlantis of Dale Hollow Lake,” and the town’s buildings remain underwater, a favorite spot for divers today. Graveyard Island near Holly Creek Marina is a legendary camping and ghost-story spot; it

was once the town’s cemetery, perched high above the valley. Many fishermen report hearing the church bells of Willow Grove in the quiet of the morning.

dale hollow lake

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Park and walk to visit points 53-55.

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Return to TN-52, turn R to continue E. Turn R on ramp to TN-151; turn L onto Main St. Pts. 48-51 are in a row on either side of Salt Lick Creek.520 e. Main St. Red Boiling Springs 615-699-3006

500 e. Main St. Red Boiling Springs 800-799-1705



Retrace route on Main St., enter TN-52E on ramp to R. Turn L onto TN-52E/Clay Co. Hwy. Go approx. 22 miles to pt. 52.

111 W. Lake ave. celina 931-243-5588

805 Brown St. celina 931-243-4220

Continue on TN-52E, turn L on TN-53N. Go approx. 2 miles, turn L on Neelys Creek Rd. Turn L on Free Hill Rd. to pt. 56.hwy 53N & free hill Rd. celina

Return to TN-53, turn L. Turn R on Dale Hollow Dam Rd. Follow signs to pts. 57 & 58.fish hatchery Rd. celina 931-243-2443

Drive over pt. 58 to Old Hwy 52 and continue S for approx. 2 miles. Turn L onto TN-52E, go approx. 5 miles. Turn R onto TN-136S, go approx 5 miles to pt. 59. Alt. Motorcoach Route: From pt. 56, continue S on TN-53. Turn L onto TN-52. Turn R onto TN-136S to pt. 59.

1674 Standing Stone State Park hwy hilham 931-823-6347

AReA LODGiNG


FOOD & WiNe ALONG THe RiNG OF FiRe TRAiL

Here are just some of the many places to eat along the Ring of Fire Trail. Find more options at RingOfFireTrail.com. Restaurants are listed here by town, in the order it appears on the trail.

food & wine continued There are many wonderful hotels and bed & breakfasts (B&B) along Ring of Fire. Find a complete list at RingOfFireTrail.com. Accommodations are listed in trail order, beginning in Nashville. Call ahead for most lodging reservations.

The information in this brochure represents just a few treasures along Tennessee backroads. Check out RingOfFireTrail.com for complete travel planning along this trail. While there, you’ll see a link to Facebook where you can share your experiences on the Ring of Fire Trail. You can also post reviews on sites like Yelp.com or TripAdvisor.com. Be a trail blazer — help us build our trails and keep them updated.

WHAT DiD We MiSS?

CROSS PLAiNSTesha’s Café country cooking for breakfast or lunch. “Meat and three” specials. 7847 Hwy 25E, 615-654-1100

True’s Bar B-Que Pork BBQ and ribs with all the fixings for over 20 years. 7837 Hwy 25E, 615-654-2838

PORTLANDBrewster’s Bar & Grill at Comfort Suites Steak, seafood and other favorites. 9239 Hwy 52E, 615-325-8887

Old Time Fixin’s Restaurant at Bottom View Farm 185 Wilkerson Ln., 615-325-7017

LAFAYeTTeGibson’s Café great food, service and the best cup of coffee anywhere; live music fri. nights. 100 E. Locust St., 615-666-2244

ReD BOiLiNG SPRiNGSBig ed’s BBQ Some of the best BBQ around! 111 Whitley Hollow Rd. 615-699-3288

Bray’s Family Restaurant country cooking. 699 Lafayette Rd., 615-699-3765

Sheila’s Bar-B-Q home of the home-style hamburger. 174 Spivey St., 615-699-2822

CeLiNADoris’ Diner country dinners. 711 Brown St., 931-243-6868

Ollie’s Place Locals’ favorite lunch place. 710 E. Lake Ave., 931-243-6363

GAiNeSBOROAnderson Hale Drugs old-fashioned drug store and ice cream counter. 101 W. Gore Ave., 931-268-0233

Bethany Café Local treasure with amazing views. (See pg. 20, pt. 67) 243 Gladdice Hwy, 931-268-2712

Gainesboro Drugs 1950s soda fountain. 100 Hull Ave., 931-268-9919

Helen’s Restaurant family dining. 3013 S. Grundy Quarles Hwy 931-268-2022

Highland Market handmade sandwiches and pizza; in business over 100 years. 164 Dow Cook Rd., 931-678-4264

GRANViLLeT.B. Sutton General Store family-style dining. (See pg. 20, pt. 66) 169 Clover St., 931-653-4151

CARTHAGeMartins Grocery everything you need from gas and groceries to sandwiches. 361 Defeated Creek Hwy 615-774-3120

Woody’s Café 203 Upper Ferry Rd., 615-735-1442

HARTSViLLeCreek Bank Grill classic “meat and three”. 306 E. Main St., 615-374-4973

Oldham’s Market convenience store serving “meat and three”. 711 E. McMurry Blvd., 615-374-9003

Tully’s Bistro fine dining. 333 Broadway, 615-374-924

CASTALiAN SPRiNGSCountry Crossroads Restaurant “Best little grubhouse in town” serving “meat and three”. 555 Hwy 25W, 615-374-0488

Keller’s Restaurant Steaks, burgers and classic Southern catfish. (See pg. 22, pt. 82) 325 Hwy 25W, 615-374-4719

GALLATiNGovan’s Coffee House coffee shop with free Wi-fi. 116 N. Water Ave., 615-206-9777

Larriviere’s Restaurant Locals’ favorite place to have a burger; on the square. 102 N. Water Ave., 615-451-2772

Lime Deli Lunch with a south-of-the- border twist. 105 Public Sq., 615-442-8323

The Bistro at Amber Leaf Stop in for lunch or dinner; call for live music schedule. 112 Public Sq., 615-230-0393

The Pizza Machine & Company old-school feeling pizza parlor. 106 Public Sq., 615-989-1434

The Whippoorwill Lunch and dinner; call for live music schedule. 118 N. Water Ave., 615-230-9130

HeNDeRSONViLLeBarefoot Charlie’s 125 Sanders Ferry Rd., 615-431-2859

Café Rakka Mediterranean and Middle eastern dishes freshly prepared. 71A New Shackle Island Rd. 615-824-6264

Sam’s Sports Bar & Grill 300 Indian Lake Blvd. 615-824-0505

GOODLeTTSViLLeChef’s Market artfully prepared food; fabulous desserts. (See pg. 26, pt. 103) 900 Conference Dr., 615-851-2433

WiNeRieStennessee has 40 wineries state-wide, and our trails practically lead you to their door. these five are along the Ring of fire trail.

Chateau Ross Winery Wine tasting by appointment. 5823 Fulton Rd., Springfield 615-654-9463Long Hollow Winery & Vineyards owned by Grand Ole Opry star Stu Phillips; complimentary wine tasting offered daily. 665 Long Hollow Pk. Goodlettsville, 615-859-5559

Red Barn Winery agricultural farm winery. (See pg. 8, pt. 44) 1805 Tanyard Rd., Lafayette 615-688-6012

Sumner Crest Winery Wine tasting offered daily. (See pg. 7, pt. 33) 5036 Old Hwy 52, Portland 615-325-4086

The Winery at Belle Meade Plantation Wine tasting offered daily. 5025 Harding Pk., Nashville 615-356-0501

NASHViLLeArpeggio Café inside Schermerhorn Symphony center. (See pg. 27, pt. 111) 1 Symphony Pl. (Downtown) 615-687-6613

Bongo Java Roasting Company Watch master roaster work small-batch coffee magic on a 50-year-old cast-iron german roaster in this café. 107A Eleventh St. (East Nashville) 615-777-EAST

DrinkHaus Specialty coffee and tea. 500 Madison St. (Germantown) 615-255-5200

Germantown Café fresh, creative cuisine meets traditional cooking. 1200 Fifth Ave. N. (Germantown) 615-242-3326

i Dream of Weenie Specialty hotdogs served from converted VW bus. 113 S. 11th St. (East Nashville) 615-226-2622

Marché Artisan Foods european-style café and marketplace. 1000 Main St. (East Nashville) 615-262-1111

Monell’s Southern food served family style. 1235 Sixth Ave. N. (Germantown) 615-248-4747

The Cocoa Tree artisan chocolate and truffle café. 1200 Fifth Ave. N. (East Nashville) 615-255-5060

The Mad Platter Seasonal, fresh products creatively prepared. 1239 Sixth Ave. N. (Germantown) 615-242-2563

Two Twenty • Two Grille contemporary spin on Southern cuisine; inside country Music hall of fame. (See pg. 2, pt. 3) 222 Fifth Ave. S. (Downtown) 615-291-6759

Varallo’s Chile Parlor Nashville’s oldest restaurant, est. 1907; Sandwiches, plate lunches, dessert and famous 3-way chile. 239 Fourth Ave. N. (Downtown) 615-256-1907

WHiTeS CReeKFarm House Restaurant Southern-style comfort food. (See pg. 3, pt. 10) 4225 White Creek Pk., 615-724-1601

Ri’chard’s Louisiana Café favorite to some of Nashville’s best known residents. (See pg. 3, pt. 12) 4220 White Creek Pk., 615-299-9590

ADAMSAdams Station BBQ Local favorite for Southern BBQ. 7716 Hwy 41N, 615-696-1808

School House Cafeteria & Tea Room ”Meat and three”; fried oreo sundaes. (See pg. 5, pt. 20) 7617 Hwy 41N, 615-696-1222

Stuard’s Market Breakfast,”meat and three”, deli. 7669 Hwy 41, 615-696-2551

SPRiNGFieLDBurdett’s Tea Shop featured on Tennessee Crossroads; lunch and traditional tea plates. 618 S. Main St., 615-384-2320

S&W Sweet Shoppe homemade goodies and cakes. 726 S. Main St., 615-380-8053

Tricia’s on the Square Local favorite for lunch; salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts. 518 S. Main St., 615-382-7298

Carole’s Yellow Cottage B&B 801 Fatherland St., Nashville 615-226-2952Linden Manor B&B 1501 Linden Ave., Nashville 615-298-2701The Big Bungalow B&B 618 Fatherland St., Nashville 615-256-8375The Hermitage Hotel 231 Sixth Ave. N., Nashville 888-888-9414Harvest House B&B 8402 Cedar Grove Rd., Cross Plains 615-654-2434Comfort Suites 9239 Hwy 52E, Portland 615-325-8887Hearthstone inn 605 Hwy 52 Bypass W, Lafayette 615-666-7114Red Boiling Springs (See pg. 10, pts. 48-50) Thomas House 520 E. Main St. 615-699-3006 The Donoho Hotel 500 E. Main St. 800-799-1705 Armour’s Hotel 321 E. Main St. 615-699-2180 Cedar Hill Resort & Marina 705 Cedar Hill Rd., Celina 800-872-8393

Holly Creek Resort & Marina 2659 Holly Creek Rd., Celina 800-844-8862Horse Creek Resort 703 Horse Creek Dock Rd., Celina 800-545-2595Willow Grove Dock & Resort 11045 Willow Grove Hwy, Allons 931-823-6616Blue Heron Studio & Retreat 576 Carl Dixon Ln., Gainesboro 931-678-4555Beech Hill Blue B&B 118 Cherry St., Granville 931-653-4574Granville B&B 146 Clover St., Granville 931-653-4560Granville Marina 7316 Granville Hwy, Granville 931-653-4360Maple Grove Campground 6878 Granville Hwy, Granville 931-653-4486 Hotel Walton (See pg. 21, pt. 74) 308 N. Main St., Carthage 615-735-9292Hancock House B&B 2144 Nashville Pk., Gallatin 615-452-8431Uncle Bud’s Log Cabin 127 Lake Harbor Dr., Hendersonville 866-849-0524

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nashville area self-guided driving tour

Find out more at RingOfFireTrail.com

SF - State ForestWMA - Wildlife Management Area

Numbers in green circles correspond to numbered Points of interest throughout this guide.

riNg oF Fire TrAil exTrAS: Pagefarms .......................................... 18festivals & events ......................... 17food & Wine ................................ 12great outdoors ............................. 16lodging ....................................... 13

1 Point of Interest

Visitor Information

Main Trail

Off-Trail Highlight

Land Trust for Tennessee Protected Property

All locations on map are approximate. Map is not to scale.

36"

24"

8"

Watch for these signs along the ring of fire trail route.

i-65, exit 121, s bound Robertson Co. (Mitchellville) 615-325-4721

i-40, exit 267, e & W bound Smith Co., 615-683-6410

1514

Base map by Richard Quin

1-8

11-12

17-21

22-26

30-31

13

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27

28

29

32

33 36 37

38

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47

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Veterans Park 6700 Granville Hwy, GranvilleWar Trace Creek Park 3711 Gladdice Hwy, Gainesboro 931-678-4801

MARiNAS & ReCReATiON AReASCedar Hill Resort & Marina 705 Cedar Hill Rd., Celina 800-872-8393Dale Hollow Marina 440 Arlon Webb Dr., Celina 800-321-1669Defeated Creek Recreation Area & Marina (See pg. 20, pt. 69) 160 Marina Ln., Carthage 615-774-3131Holly Creek Resort & Marina 2659 Holly Creek Rd., Celina 800-844-8862Horse Creek Resort 703 Horse Creek Dock Rd., Celina 800-545-2595Granville Marina 7316 Granville Hwy, Granville 931-653-4360Mitchell Creek Marina 1260 Livingston Boat Dock Rd. Allons, 866-533-1872Old Hickory Lake Visitor Center/ Rockland Recreation Area (See pg. 25, pt. 98) 5 Power Plant Rd., Hendersonville 615-822-4648

Red River Valley Park 8002 Hwy 41N, Adams 800-762-8408Roaring River Recreation Area (See pg. 19, pt. 60) Off Hwy 135, Carthage Site Management: 615-735-1034Salt Lick Creek Recreation Area 520 Salt Lick Park Ln., Gainesboro 931-678-4718Turkey Creek Recreation Area Off TN-263, Carthage 615-735-1034, 615-735-2093Willow Grove Dock & Resort 11045 Willow Grove Hwy, Allons 931-823-6616

STATe PARKSBicentennial Mall State Park (See pg. 3, pt. 6) 600 James Robertson Pkwy. Nashville, 615-741-5280Bledsoe Creek State Park (See pg. 23, pt. 87) 400 Zieglers Fort Rd., Gallatin 615-452-3706Port Royal State Park (See pg. 4, pt. 16) 3300 Old Clarksville Hwy, Adams 931-358-9696Standing Stone State Park (See pg. 11, pt. 59) 1674 Standing Stone State Park Hwy Hilham, 931-823-6347

CANOeiNGBell Witch Cave & Canoe Rental (See pg. 5, pt. 19) 430 Keysburg Rd., Adams 615-696-3055 Red River Canoe (See pg. 5, pt. 18) 8002 Hwy 41, Adams 615-696-2768

GOLFCumberland Bend Golf Course 255 Blue Devils Ln., Gainesboro 931-268-0259Long Hollow Golf Course 1080 Long Hollow Pk., Gallatin 615-451-3120Shelby Park Golf Course 2021 Fatherland St., Nashville 615-862-8474The Legacy Golf Course 100 Raymond Floyd Dr., Springfield 615-384-4653Through The Green – Highland Rim Golf Course 1746 New Hope Rd., Joelton 615-746-0400

HORSeBACK RiDiNGLong C Trails 8959 Hanes Rd., Westmoreland 270-618-7500

Red Oak Ridge Hiking & Riding Trail

5050 Dale Hollow Dam Rd. Celina, 931-43-3136Walnut Hollow Trails 201 Walnut Hollow Ln. Whitleyville, 931-268-0684

LOCAL PARKS & TRAiLSBattle of Hartsville Memorial Park 95 River Valley Rd., Hartsville 615-374-9243Bledsoe’s Fort Historical Park (See pg. 23, pt. 85) Hwy 25, Castalian SpringsCity Park E. Main St., Red Boiling SpringsKey Park 208 Church St., LafayetteMoss-Wright Park (See pg. 25, pt. 102) 745 Caldwell Dr., GoodlettsvilleRichland Park (See pg. 8, pt. 37) 303 Portland Blvd., Portland 615-325-9032J. Travis Price Park (See pg. 6, pt. 28) 4155 Wilkes Rd., Springfield 615-382-1655Shelby Bottoms Greenway & Nature Park 1900 Davidson St., Nashville 615-862-85393

16 See Ring of Fire Trail map on page 14. 17Find more information at RingOfFireTrail.com.

The Land Trust for Tennessee is a statewide, private non- profit organization whose mission is “to preserve the unique character of Tennessee’s natural and historic landscapes and sites for future generations.” The Land Trust for Tennessee

works with communities and government partners to permanently conserve these unique areas. For more information, visit Landtrusttn.org or call 615-244-LAND.

land tRust foR tennessee

eNJOY THe GReAT OUTDOORS ALONG THe RiNG OF FiRe TRAiL

Tennessee is filled with outdoor adventures, and Ring of Fire has opportunities at every turn. This guide provides you with several options, but for more, go to RingOfFireTrail.com.

MARCHMansker’s Station Spring encampment – GoodlettsvilleAPRiLSquare Fest – Gallatin – 1st Sat.Pilgrimage of Homes – Castalian Springs – 4th Sat.MAYBledsoe’s Fort Colonial Fair – Castalian Springs – 1st weekendPoke Sallet Festival – Gainesboro – Thurs.-Sat. before Mother’s Day

PORTLAND STRAWBeRRY FeSTiVAL Portland, 3rd week

TN-52 Yard Sale – Portland to Celina – 3rd Fri.Heritage Day – Granville – Sat. before Memorial DayAnnual Terry “Jackhammer” Driver Scholarship Truck & Tractor Pull – LafayetteSMOKE: A Ballad of the Night Riders – Adams – Old Bell SchoolJUNeMusic City On Stage – Nashville – Fontanel, June-Mid-Nov.CMA Music Festival – Nashville – LP Field, Early JuneClay Co. Fair – Celina – Early JuneTaste of Country Festival – Springfield – Early JuneDefeated Creek Bluegrass Festival – Carthage – Defeated Creek Marina, 2nd Fri. & Sat.Rose Mont Festival – Gallatin – Rose Mont, 3rd Sat.Trash & Treasures City Wide Yard Sale – Cross Plains – Last weekendHillbilly Days – LafayetteJULYFourth of July Celebrations – Many towns along Ring of Fire have a July 4th event. Visit RingOfFireTrail.com to learn more.• MusicinthePark/IndependenceDayCelebration–Hartsville• MusicCityFourth–NashvilleAnnual Thresherman’s Show – Adams – Old Bell School, 3rd weekendHomecoming Days – Celina – Last weekendAnnual Macon Bluegrass Festival – LafayetteSmith Co. Fair – CarthageAUGUSTTomato Art Festival – east Nashville – 2nd Sat.Macon Co. Fair – Lafayette – Early Aug.Sumner Co. Fair – Gallatin – Early Aug.Trousdale Co. Fair – Hartsville – Mid-Aug.Robertson Co. Fair – Springfield – Late Aug.Cyclemos Antique Motorcycle Swap Meet – Red Boiling SpringsPep Rally on the Square – Springfield

SePTeMBeRBell Witch Old-Time and Bluegrass Festival – Adams – Old Bell School, 3rd weekendDaniel Smith Colonial Days – Hendersonville – Historic Rock Castle, Last weekendNational Rolley Hole Marbles Championship & Festival – Standing Stone State ParkOCTOBeRHoneysuckle Hill Farm Fall Festival – Springfield – Every weekendDays Gone By Tractor Show & Threshing – Portland – 1st weekendCemetery Tour – Gallatin – 1st Sat.Fall Celebration – Granville – 1st Sat.Main Street Festival – Gallatin – 1st Sat.Rendezvous on the Square – Carthage – 1st Sat.Oktoberfest – Nashville’s Germantown – 2nd Sat.

SPIRIT Adams – Old Bell School, Last 2 weeks

Ghost of the Inn – Red Boiling Springs – Thomas House“How’d Dey Do Dat?” Day – Red Boiling Springs – Grandpa’s HouseMansker’s Station Fall encampment – GoodlettsvilleNOVeMBeRTrinity Christmas City USA – Hendersonville – Nov. 1-Jan. 31Music City Christmas – Nashville – Fontanel, Mid-Nov.-Dec.Christmas on the Square – Springfield – Sat. before ThanksgivingDeCeMBeRCountry Christmas – Granville – 2nd Sat.Hartsville Hometown Christmas Parade – Hartsville – 2nd Sat.Yulefest at Mansker’s Station – Goodlettsville – 1st weekend

FeSTiVALS & eVeNTS iN THe AReA

Tennessee’s Civil War Sesquicentennial commemorates the 150th anniversary of tennessee’s participation in the american civil War. tennessee ranks second in the country in number of battlefields, and presents a unique and powerful history to enthusiasts and curious visitors. for more information, on Sesquicentennial events, visit tnvacation.com®

See RingOfFireTrail.com for a complete event listing.Photo credits: Pg. 2: fort Nashborough, Bill carey (tnhistoryforkids.org); Bruton Snuff, Robby Virus; Pg. 3: church of the assumption-historic germantown, andrew Jameson; James gang general Store, Brent Moore (seemidtn.com); richardscafe.com; Pg. 5: canoetheredriver.com; springfield-tn.org; Pg. 6: thomas Kilgore grave, Jerry Wilson/cook family (constantinethegreatcoins.com); Pg. 8: Black Patch tobacco Wars “Night Riders,” Library of congress; tn52.com; lafayettetn.com; macondrive-in.com; Pg. 9: redbarnwinery.com; redboilingspringstn.com; Nestle water and Jesse t’s, Bill carey (tnhistoryforkids.org); Pg. 10: Donoho hotel, Brian Stansberry; clay co. Partnership chamber (dalehollowlake.org); clay co. courthouse, Bill carey (tnhistoryforkids.org); cumberland River Sutlery; Pg. 11: bigsouthforkcountry.com; freehillcommunity.org; Pg. 19: gainesboro aerial, SparkyJt (topix.com); Roaring River and Jackson co. Museum, Vincent anderson; Jackson co. courthouse, Bill carey (tnhistoryforkids.org); cyrus clark grave, tennessee & the civil War Project 2005 (tngenweb.org); Pg. 20: Bethany café, gloversphotography.com; flynn’s creek crater, g. Morton (waymarking.com); Nameless, Brian Stansberry; tn52.com; Pg. 21: tennesseetreasures.net; Dixona farm-Dixon Springs, Nancy Rhoda (landtrusttn.org); hartsville cooling tower and trousdale co. courthouse, Brian Stansberry; Pg. 23: avery’s trace, Brian Stansberry; gallatin, ichabod; Pg. 24: Rose Mont, Don Wright; u.S. colored troops, Library of congress; Pg. 25: hendersonvilletn.com; old hickory Lake Visitor center, u.S. army corps of engineers; Pg. 26: taylor Swift, Shankbone; chefsmarket.com; Pg. 27: Spring hill cemetery, findagrave.com, i Dream of Weenie, hilltop Property Management, “ghost Ballet for the east Bank Machineworks” by alice aycock, Metropolitan government of Nashville/gary Layda; Vintage photos from tennessee State Library and archives: tobacco harvest, 1946 (pg. 4); Red Boiling Springs hotel, 1924 (pg. 9); Dale hollow Dam, 1969 (pg. 11); Springfield general Store, 1910 (pg. 20).

60. Roaring River Recreation Area – Drive through this outdoor spot tucked away in the rolling hills on cordell hull Lake. it’s a great place for boating, fishing, swimming and hiking.

61. Gainesboro – this is one of tennessee’s oldest towns, tucked away in the foothills of the cumberland Mountains. it’s easy to see that the original avery’s trace (see box on page 23) travelers found this area one of the most difficult to travel but also one of the most beautiful, earning it the nickname “the Switzerland of the upper cumberland.” it’s home to the annual Poke Sallet festival, celebrating the native poke weed plant.

The poke weed isn’t just used for poke sallet. It was used for medicinal purposes by the Native Americans; as pen ink by Civil War soldiers; and as a promising part of modern cancer research today.

62. Gainesboro Courthouse Square – as with several tennessee counties, the original 1820s Jackson County Courthouse burned to the ground, destroying most of the town’s records. the one you see today was built in 1927, and is the third to stand on this spot. take some time to explore the shops around the town square and the historic districts that surround it.

During the Civil War, General Braxton Bragg’s Confederate Army marched through these streets on their way to one of the war’s bloodiest conflicts in Perryville, Kentucky. Learn more about Bragg’s battles on The Jack Trail: Sippin’ to Saddles.

NASHViLLeNashville Farmers Market – (See pg. 3, pt. 7) Best produce, food and bargains in a community setting. 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 615-800-2001.ADAMSAdams Garden – Blackberries, blueberries, cherries, grapes, nuts, persimmons and asparagus. 7254 Hwy 41N. 615-696-2652.Shade Tree Farm – u-pick apple orchard and gift shop. apple presses available to make your own cider. open aug.-oct. 2087 Kinneys Rd. 615-696-2915.SPRiNGFieLDGourmet Pasture Beef – 100% grass-fed beef. 5458 Gunn Rd. 615-504-2046. Honeysuckle Hill Farm – (See pg. 4, pt. 13) Pumpkins, corn maze, mums, farm tours, haunted woods and much more! 1765 Martins Chapel Church Rd. 615-382-7593.Robertson County Farmers Market – open May-Sept., Sat., 8:30 a.m.-noon. at Robertson county fair grounds. 4563 Hwy 41N. Woodall’s Strawberries – u-pick strawberries. 4452 Kinneys Rd. 615-513-4439.CROSS PLAiNSCarr’s Wild Horse & Burro Ranch – adoption center boards and finds homes for thousands of wild horses and burros. 4844 Couts-Carr Rd. 615-654-2180.The Orchard – u-pick blackberries, strawberries and peaches in season. 6900 Blackberry Ln. 615-654-9227.ORLiNDAGammon Dairy Farm – (See pg. 7, pt. 32) farm-fresh milk and produce. 5766 Highland Rd. 615-654-8621. Windy Acres Farm – certified organic farm. 5552 Dixon Rd. 615-654-3599. PORTLANDBottom View Farms – Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, pumpkins and farm tours. 185 Wilkerson Ln. 615-325-7017.

Cole’s Farms – Strawberries, sweet corn and pumpkins; farm stand or u-pick. 540 Buntin Mill Rd. 615-325-0031.Crafton Farms – cantaloupe, strawberries, sweet corn squash and tomatoes. 209 Crafton Rd. 615-969-6264.england Strawberry Farm – u-pick strawberries. 720 Scattersville Rd. 615-426-3068.

Milan Produce Farm – tomatoes, sweet corn, watermelon and pumpkins. 2105 Hwy 52E. 615-325-6571.WeSTMOReLANDGeneration Sales – amish food, jam, homemade butter, windmills and bird feeders. 5410 Hwy 31E. 615-644-2929.

LAFAYeTTeLone Hickory Blueberry Farm – Large sweet blueberries; u-pick. 1800 Tanyard Rd. 615-666-7167.Red Hill Farm – Duroc pork and grain-fed angus beef. 466 Red Hill Rd. 615-666-3098.ReD BOiLiNG SPRiNGSBarefoot Farmer-Long Hungry Creek Farm – oldest and largest organic farm in tennessee. 2307 Long Hungry Creek Rd. 615-699-2493. GAiNeSBORO AReABlooming idiot Daylily Farm – over 640 varieties. 296 Ellison Goolsby Rd. 931-239-6581.Hidden Springs Orchard – u-pick blueberries. 2204 Spring Creek Rd. 931-529-1166.CARTHAGeDillehay Farm – cantaloupes, watermelons, beans, cabbage, corn, cucumbers and much more! 21 Kempville Hwy. 615-774-3511.HARTSViLLe AReAKelley’s Berry Farm – u-pick strawberries, blue-berries and blackberries. 50 Riverview Ln. 615-633-1426.

63. Pappy’s Picket Fence – this antique shop sits in the former gainesboro Dry goods Store and town post office, also formerly the law offices of both Nobel Peace Prize recipient cordell hull and albert gore, Sr. Stop in to browse treasures from over 40 dealers.

64. Jackson County Museum & Historical Society – Learn about the history of the area in this 1894 former church. it’s a wealth of infor-mation for people from all over the u.S. tracking their family history back to those first avery’s trace settlers. Open Thurs.-Sat.

Cyrus Clark was forced from his corn field into service when Confederate General John Hunt Morgan’s cavalry came through Gainesboro, and he was never seen again. 150 years later, it was discovered that Clark died in Kentucky, and his remains were brought here in 1986 to be buried next to his wife in Gainesboro’s Old Town Cemetery, just off the square. Many other Civil War soldiers are buried here; the many rare and unusual coffin shapes indicate the cemetery’s age.


LeARN MORe ABOUT HiSTORY iN THe RiNG OF FiRe TRAiL AReA

Night Rider by Robert Penn WarrenThe Bell Witch: The Full Account by Pat fitzhughThe Washingtons of Wessyngton Plantation Stories of My Family’s Journey to Freedom by John f. Baker, Jr. Touring the Middle Tennessee Backroads by Robert BrandtYou can purchase these at: amazon.com

FARMS iN THe AReA

*

These are just a few homegrown attractions along the trail. For complete list, go to RingOfFireTrail.com.

THE RING OF FIRE TRAIL CONTINuED FROm pAGE 11.

You’ll see two of this influential Tennessean’s early law offices around the small town squares on the Ring of Fire; one in Gainesboro, and one in Carthage. Appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933 as secretary of state, Cordell Hull served in that role for 11 years. During that time, he promoted the “Good Neighbor Policy” with Latin America, promising non-intervention and non-interference in domestic affairs. Hull worked tirelessly

to prevent World War II; as it began, he turned his efforts toward preventing future wars. His most noted effort was the 1945 founding of the United Nations, an international organization established to stop wars between countries and provide a platform for dialogue. For his diplomatic efforts and contributions to world peace, he won the 1945 Nobel Peace Prize.

coRdell hull

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108-110 hull ave.gainesboro 931-268-6820

105 Montpelier ave. gainesboro 931-268-0345

For wineries along Ring of Fire, see page 13.

A Century Farm is a farm that has been continuously owned by a family for 100 years or more. There are 159 certified Century Farms in the 8 Tennessee counties that make up the Ring of Fire Trail.

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*century farm

From pt. 59, continue S on TN-136 through park. Turn R onto TN-85 in Hilham, go approx. 14 miles. Turn L onto TN-53/85, go 0.6 mile. Turn L onto TN-135, go 0.6 mile. Turn L into pt. 60.

Leaving pt. 60, turn R onto TN-135, go 0.6 mile. At stop sign, turn L onto TN-53/85/56. Go S for 1.44 miles, turn R onto E. Hull Ave. to pt. 61. interstate Access: I-40, exit 280 (TN-56N). Go N to Gainesboro.

Park and walk to visit points 62-64.Jackson co. courthouse 101 hull ave. gainesboro 931-268-9888

From pt. 62, head W on W. Hull Ave./TN-53S for approx. 0.25 mile. Turn R onto Gladdice Hwy/ TN-262W. Go less than 1 mile to pt. 67. 243 gladdice hwy gainesboro 931-268-2712Turn L onto TN-262, go 11 miles. TN-262 becomes TN-85.

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is rewarded with a gorgeous view of the lake’s cool blue waters. Public restrooms are available. hikers, you’ll find a trailhead for the Bear Waller gap trail near the parking area. it’s a rugged 5.6-mile (one-way) hike along the lake’s shore, featuring more overlooks, rock gardens, waterfalls and even the remains of old homesites.

Cordell Hull Lake is one of fishing’s best-kept secrets — its 381 miles of shoreline and over 20 boat launching ramps make it accessible with or without a boat, and the lake provides both cold and warm water fishing year-round, thanks to the dam’s cool reservoir and the tributaries’ warmer feeds.

71. Cordell Hull Dam & Visitors Center – Just north of carthage, this dam on the cumberland River forms cordell hull Lake. it’s one of many sites in the area providing hydroelectric power, and is managed by the u.S. army corps of engineers. Picnic facilities and a playground are available outside the visitors center.

72. Carthage – Serving as the seat of Smith county, this former riverboat town was founded by colonel William Walton, surveyor of the old Walton Road (see box on page 23) that connected east and Middle tennessee. in the heyday of the steamboat era, this was known as the “River city,” an important stop for steamboat traffic with three ferries operating from the town.

Carthage is the family home of Albert “Al” Gore, Jr., the 45th Vice President of the United States and 2000 Democratic Party presidential nominee. Gore began his political career by representing Tennessee as a U.S. Congressman and Senator just as his father (Al, Sr.) did.

73. Carthage Courthouse Square – anchored by the historic 1875 Smith County Court-house, this town square offers restaurants,

Nearby Nameless was “named” by a postmaster in 1866 when the residents could not agree on what to call the town.

68. Woodard Bros. – (L) Make a stop at this classic grocery and local hangout.

69. Defeated Creek Recreation Area, Marina & Restaurant – Pick up a boxed lunch at this friendly restaurant and make arrangements to rent a pontoon boat on cordell hull Lake for the day. cabins and camping are available for extended stays, but make sure you book ahead — it’s a popular spot for people looking to escape the everyday with a weekend on the lake. if you’re here in June, you just might catch the Defeated creek Bluegrass festival.

70. Cordell Hull Lake Overlook at Tater Knob – (L) this very accessible viewing spot is perched high atop a ridge overlooking cordell hull Lake and Dam. Bring your camera — a short walk up the paved ramp

65. Granville – this tiny “picture postcard” town on the cumberland River draws visitors year-round. once a bustling riverboat town, its pace slowed as roadways eclipsed river commerce. the creation of cordell hull Lake in the 1970s submerged many of the town’s homes and buildings. today, it is a quaint and historic vacation spot, loved for its restored buildings including the Granville Museum, quiet charm and access to outdoor activities.

66. T.B. Sutton General Store – Situated just a stone’s throw from the cumberland’s banks, this was granville’s general store and grocery from the 1800s until the 1970s. today, it has been beautifully restored to respect its heritage, with a second-floor balcony and many original features and fixtures. Sutton’s functions as a gift shop, family-style dining room, art gallery and bluegrass pickin’ parlor — the Sutton Ole Time Music Hour is recorded here on Saturday nights and broadcast worldwide. Open Wed.-Sat.

You can pick up a brochure for the 20-stop Granville Historic Walking Tour at Sutton’s (point 66) or the Granville Museum.

67. Bethany Café – (L) Perched in a little house on a hill o v e r l o o k i n g gainesboro to the east and the cumberland River to the northwest, this local treasure offers an amazing view to top off your delicious meal.

Over 360 years ago, a meteor crashed into the earth near Flynn’s Creek, just off of Hwy 53. This ancient crater is roughly 2.5 miles across. It has filled in with younger rocks over time, and was used by NASA to train Apollo astronauts.

shops, history and charm, with several sites on the National historic Register.

74. Hotel Walton – this 1904 hotel just off the square was named for the original Walton hotel, built by colonel William Walton. Still in operation, the Walton was a popular stop-over for travelers on the cumberland River, and the establish-ment was known for its fine food and entertainment. today, the hotel offers modern guest rooms and a “meat and three”-style restaurant on the lower level.

75. Smith County Heritage Museum – immerse yourself in the county’s history and heritage in this museum, including an extensive exhibit on the county’s many century farms — working farms that have remained in the same family for over 100 years. the site is a former manufacturing building located directly behind the hotel.

76. Smith County Chamber of Commerce

(R) Stop in for maps and area info, includ-ing a brochure for the 11-point, self-guided walking trail of Carthage, which features several historic homes and sites near downtown. across the street, visit the gravesite of town founder colonel William Walton. a boat ramp nearby provides a great opportunity to see the cumberland River up close.

Smith County is named for General Daniel Smith, the surveyor who named our state “Tennassee” after a Native American settle-ment he encountered in East Tennessee. Smith built Rock Castle (point 97).


Today’s communities have super-stores like Wal-Mart and Target for one-stop shopping; from the 1800s to the turn of the century in Middle Tennessee, it was the general store. The stores stocked a large variety of non-food merchandise in a small space; often, the shelves reached from floor to ceiling and were filled with bolts of cloth, clothing and shoes; cookware and dishes; pistols and ammunition; farm equipment and lanterns. The general store housed the pharmacy, carrying medicines, salves, toiletries and elixirs; it was also the post office, the lunch counter, and sometimes even the undertaker. When the U.S. Postal Service introduced Rural Free Delivery (RFD) in the late 1800s, farm families no longer made long trips to the post office. The RFD

program improved rural roads to bigger towns with more specialty shops and services. You’ll visit Thomas Drugs (point 31) and the old T.B. Sutton General Store (point 66) on the Ring of Fire Trail; both offer a chance to experience what was once the heart of the town.

the old geneRal stoReOFF-TRAIL

BACK ON TRAIL

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Pt. 75 is directly behind pt. 74. 107 third ave. W. carthage 615-735-1104 615-735-2093

Go S on Main St., which becomes Upper Ferry Rd., to pt. 76.939 upper ferry Rd. carthage 615-735-2093

From pt. 62, take TN-53S/W. Hull Ave/Granville Hwy S for 13 miles. Turn L onto Clover St. to pts. 65 & 66.

169 clover St. granville 931-653-4151Return to TN-53, turn L to continue SW for approx. 1 mile to rejoin trail.

Go W on TN-85W/Kempville Hwy less than 1 mile, turn L to continue on Defeated Creek Hwy/TN-85 to pt. 68.445 Defeated creek hwy carthage 615-774-3121Continue W on TN-85 approx. 1 mile. Turn L on Marina Ln. to pt. 69. 160 Marina Ln. carthage 615-774-3131

Return to TN-85W/Defeated Creek Hwy, turn L. Go approx. 2 miles, turn L onto Turkey Creek Hwy/TN-263. Go approx. 1.5 miles, turn L onto Overlook Rd. to pt. 70 at end of road.overlook Rd. carthage 615-735-1034

Return to Turkey Creek Hwy/TN-263, turn L. Go approx. 2 miles and turn L onto Dam Rd. Go 1 mile to pt. 71.

Return to Turkey Creek Hwy/TN-263, turn L. TN-263 becomes Main St. in pt. 72.Interstate Access: I-40, exit 258 (TN-53). Go N to Carthage.

Pt. 73 is on L in middle of town.Park and walk to visit points 73-75.

308 N. Main St. carthage 615-735-9292

77. Pleasant Shade Grocery – (L) it’s worth a trip off trail for the food and hospitality at this local favorite, known for catfish and ribs. Stop in on a Saturday night for live bluegrass music, or any time for that matter — this establish-ment has an open forum Music Policy, which means anyone is welcome to get up and play, any time. they even provide a piano, guitars and a banjo.

78. Historic Dixon Springs Community – this little rural town holds historic treasures — the renovated former Dixon Springs Bank, now the public library, and the 1878 union church Building, remembered fondly by the locals for its “4-county singin’s.”

Louis Philippe, the Duke of Orleans, stayed at an inn in Dixon Springs as he traveled the “West” on an itinerary prepared by George Washington. Afterwards, he complained to many about his accommodations — he had never been made to sleep four to a bed.

79. Hartsville – this small railroad city was once two towns: Damascus and hartsville, separated by Little goose creek, settled by the Donoho and hart families. the arrival of the railroad in 1892 replaced the river as the major cargo- way, and built h a r t s v i l l e ’ s reputation as a major tobacco trade center.

Your trip to Hartsville on Hwy 25 may yield a surprising view to your left: the cooling tower for what was to be the world’s largest nuclear power plant. The Tennessee Valley Authority project was never finished — it was cancelled in the mid-1980s, but the tower still stands.

80. Hartsville Courthouse Square – Spend time exploring the shops and Victorian store- fronts around the historic Trousdale County Courthouse. inside, you’ll find the Avery’s Trace Visitor Center — a great place to learn more about the pioneers’ early journey into

cabin of Nathaniel Parker; a 1790s irish-style stone cottage; Bledsoe’s Lick, a prehistoric natural spring; the archaeological outline of Bledsoe’s fort, ca. 1780; the isaac Bledsoe family cemetery and more. it’s a great place to get a first-hand under-standing of the area’s longhunter heritage.

Bledsoe’s Fort and Mansker’s Fort (point 102) were two in a series of over 30 forts, called “stations,” built by the area’s early settlers in the late 1700s to defend against attacks by Native Americans. The settlers had arrived, unknowingly, smack in the middle of their best hunting ground.

86. Cragfont – (R) Referred to as the “Mount Vernon of tennessee,” this mansion was built in 1802 by general James Winchester, who founded Memphis alongside Judge John overton and general andrew Jackson. Winchester brought masons and carpenters 600 miles through the wilderness from his native Maryland to construct the mansion, using limestone quarried from the property. the first home in the state to have a ballroom, it was the center of political and business affairs in the early 1800s. Now a state-owned historic site, the home and property have been used in films and music videos, including “the highwayman” with Johnny cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson. Open for tours, April-Oct.

The iron stars that adorn Cragfont’s exterior are actually anchor plates for the iron rods that run through the building, tying the structure together. You’ll see them again on Trousdale Place (point 92) in Gallatin.

87. Bledsoe Creek State Park – (L) enjoy the great outdoors at this state park, featuring walking trails, boat ramps, picnic facilities, and 60 RV and tent sites on 164 acres along beautiful old hickory Lake.

Middle tennessee. Pick up a bro-chure here for a 17-stop Civil War Tour of hartsville, or just relax and watch the world go by from the gazebo.

81. Trousdale County Chamber of Commerce & Museum

(R) Stop into this historic railroad depot for an introduction to hartsville and trousdale county. the chamber of commerce office is just the beginning here; the county museum runs the length of the depot and is packed with civil War artifacts, agricultural implements, pieces of the town’s history and much more. the staff here can also take you on a tour of the Living History Museum just down the street — a detailed look at farm life in this part of the country in the early 20th century.

82. Keller’s Restaurant, Dance Hall & Saloon – (R) this “meat and three” is a local favorite for food and live music from time to time.

83. Castalian Springs – this area offers tons of Middle tennessee history. it’s home to one of the area’s first settlements, “discovered” by longhunters like isaac Bledsoe, who found abundant game and water here in the late 1700s.

84. Wynnewood – (L) this National historic Landmark, now a state-owned historic site, is believed to be the largest log structure ever built in tennessee. constructed in 1828, it was a stagecoach inn that served as a stop between Nashville and Knoxville on avery’s trace. for a short time, it functioned as a springwater resort. it

recently sustained considerable damage in a tornado, and is undergoing extensive repair — the structure (pictured as it once looked) is now closed to visitors but is still impressive when viewed from the road.

Isaac Bledsoe wasn’t the first man here. The area has been home to human settlement for 12,000 years, evidenced by the prehistoric Native American mounds that dot the hillsides.

85. Bledsoe’s Fort Historical Park – (R) take the self-guided walking trail around this 80-acre park and experience the history of one of Middle tennessee’s first white settlements. You’ll see the restored 1790


Avery’s Trace – In 1787, the state of North Carolina hired a hunter named Peter Avery to blaze a new trail toward the western territory known as the Cumberland Settlements. The road loosely followed Native American and buffalo trails, stretching from Clinch Mountain in East Tennessee to French Lick, better known today as Nashville. Fort Blount which once stood along the Cumberland River, Bledsoe’s Fort (point 85), Mansker’s Fort (point 102), and Fort Nashborough (point 4) along the route provided shelter and protection for the travelers. Travel was hard on the 300-mile, 10-foot-wide path; weather, wildlife, and treacherous terrain claimed many lives and forced many to turn back. Many were killed or harassed by the Cherokee tribe, who didn’t appreciate the settlers using their hunting and war paths. As tensions mounted, North Carolina began sending militia groups to escort travelers along the route; traffic picked up, and Avery’s Trace was widened to accommodate larger wagons. It became one of the primary routes that brought white settlement to Middle Tennessee and laid the foundation for the towns and farms here on the Ring of Fire Trail.

walton Road – This alternate east- west route was forged a few years later by Colonel William Walton, a ferry operator and one of Carthage’s first settlers. He surveyed and built the route as an entrepreneur with the state’s permission, hoping to profit from its promotion. It began near Kingston in East Tennessee at the junction of the Clinch and Tennessee Rivers, and spanned 100 miles, connecting with the junction of the Caney Fork and Cumberland Rivers near Carthage. The road linked Tennessee’s two major river systems, the “highways” of the time, opening new opportunities for commerce and settlement. Operated by the Cumberland Turnpike Company, Walton Road was wider across than Avery’s Trace, and included bridges, mile markers, toll gates and inns (called “stands”) along the route. Walton Road cleared the way for railroad travel in the 1890s and later, Hwy 70.

tennessee’s fiRst “inteRstates”

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From pt. 76, return to TN-25, turn L to go W approx. 3 miles. Turn R onto Pleasant Shade Hwy/TN-80, go approx. 7.5 miles to pt. 77.725 Pleasant Shade hwy Pleasant Shade 615-677-6722Reverse your route on TN-80, turn R onto Dixon Springs/TN-25 toward Hartsville to rejoin trail.

From pt. 76, turn L onto Old TN-25 into pt. 78. After driving through village, turn R to return to TN-25.

Turn L/W onto TN-25, go 5.5 miles to pt. 79.

Veer L onto E. Main St./Old TN-25, go 1.1 miles to int. of River St. & E. Main St. to pt. 80. trousdale co. courthouse 200 e. Main St. hartsville

Continue on E. Main St. Turn R onto Broadway/ TN-141N. Go 0.5 mile to pt. 81.240 Broadway hartsville 615-374-9243

Return to Broadway/ TN-141N and turn R, go 0.3 mile. Turn L onto TN-25, go approx. 7 miles pt. 82. 325 hwy 25W castalian Springs 615-374-4719

From TN-25, turn L on Old Hwy 25, go 0.4 mile to pt. 84. 210 old hwy 25 castalian Springs 615-230-8474

Return to TN-25, turn L. Go approx. 3.5 miles, turn R to pt. 85.hwy 25 castalian Springs

Return to TN-25/ Hartsville Pk., turn R. Turn R on Cragfont Rd. to pt. 86.200 cragfont Rd. castalian Springs 615-452-7070

Return to TN-25/ Hartsville Pk., turn R. Go 1.2 miles, turn L onto Zieglers Fort Rd. Go 1.3 miles to pt. 87. 400 Zieglers fort Rd. gallatin 615-452-3706

Lake on the cumberland River in the 1950s brought new home construction and more residents. today, it is Nashville’s biggest suburb by population.

95. Trinity Music City, USA – (L) Visit the former estate of country music legend conway twitty, affectionately known as “twitty city.” the property is now owned by the faith-based trinity B r o a d c a s t i n g Network. take a tour of the twitty mansion and tBN studios. Closed Mon.

96. Hendersonville Memory Gardens – (L) Visit the final resting place of Johnny and June carter cash, Mother Maybelle carter and other carter family members, as well as other performers. Johnny and June can be found side by side in the garden of Matthew, near the middle of the cemetery.

The 2005 film walk the Line told the story of a young Johnny Cash, featuring Nashville native Reese Witherspoon as June Carter. She won the 2006 Oscar for Best Actress; the film’s soundtrack earned a Grammy.

97. Historic Rock Castle – Built by general Daniel Smith in 1794, this is the first stone masonry house built west of the appalachian Mountains. its 22-inch thick limestone walls have shielded it for over 200 years, and windows all around helped protect its first residents from Native american attack. today, this state-owned historic site stands as a monument to survival on the tennessee frontier; tour the home to experience life from its early residents’ point of view. Closed Mon.

Daniel Smith’s daughter Polly snuck out of Rock Castle to secretly marry Samuel Donelson, Andrew Jackson’s brother-in-law. Jackson himself helped her climb out through a second-story window onto a waiting horse.

to the Daughters of the confederacy to honor confederate veterans. Directly behind it, the museum features a large collection of Native american displays, antique cars, toys, period clothing, quilts, military artifacts, guns, music and entertainment memorabilia that help tell the stories of the county. Open April-Oct.

93. Sumner County Convention & Visitors Bureau

(R) Make a stop at this stately Southern mansion for area info and visitor tips.

94. Hendersonville – Before becoming a popular Nashville suburb, hendersonv il le was a quiet farm community. it was so small that for many years, a woman named Lily hudgens operated the entire telephone switchboard for the town from her home. the formation of old hickory

98. Old Hickory Lake Visitor Center – (L) Learn all about the lake here, including its history and management. explore fun outdoor opportunities at the Rockland Recreation Area, from hiking and biking trails to on-water activities.

99. Monthaven – (R) this grand 1860 two-story wood frame home was used as a hospital during the civil War. today, it’s a business center and meeting space, and home of the Hendersonville Arts Council. Stop in to view the work of local artists.

Monthaven served as a Civil War field hospital during the skirmishes at Mansker’s Creek; girls as young as 12 served as nurses, and set pails of milk and ham under the trees for the soldiers at night.

100. Center Point BBQ – (R) this local landmark often welcomed Johnny cash for a plate of BBQ — and over the years numerous country artists and musicians have feasted at this unassuming spot. taste for yourself, and spot your favorite star in the auto-graphed pictures that decorate the walls.

101. Goodlettsville – today, this charming town is one of Nashville’s most popular suburbs; its roots go all the way back to Middle t e n n e s s e e ’ s earliest settlers.

Dollar General, the largest small-box discount retailer in the U.S., is head-quartered in Goodlettsville.

102. Mansker’s Station/Moss-Wright Park – (L) Named for longhunter and settler Kasper Mansker, the area’s earliest white resident, this fort is an authentic reconstruction of a frontier station typical of the early cumberland settlements. Within the park,

88. Gallatin – established in 1802 as the seat of Sumner county, this town is full of charm and history.

89. Rose Mont – (L) this unique plantation house was built in the 1830s by Josephus conn guild, a local politician and statesman who was held prisoner by the union during the civil War. the home was built using materials found on the 500-acre property, and features a successful blending of greek Revival and Palladian design. Open for tours, April-Oct.

Gallatin’s Square is on the National Historic Register for events that happened in 1863: 200 local African-American volunteers came together here to form the 13th Regiment of the U.S. Colored Troops, which remained intact for the duration of the Civil War.

90. Gallatin Courthouse Square – five presi-dents have visited or conducted business on this court square, including andrew Jackson, who practiced law here. as part of tennessee’s Main Street Program, the square has been newly renovated to preserve its history and architecture. take some time to admire the Sumner County Courthouse, the 1913 Palace Theatre, grab a bite to eat at local favorite Larriviere’s, or do some shopping while you’re here.

91. Gallatin Chamber of Commerce

Stop in for info on local attractions and community happenings.

92. Trousdale Place & Sumner County Museum – this 1813 home served as a civil War hospital, and in 1899, was deeded


upper Cumberland Quilt Trail – As you drive and dip through this trail’s beautiful countryside, you’ll notice brightly colored and patterned squares adorning historic barns, businesses and homes in the communities of the Upper Cumberland Plateau. The blocks are replicas of treasured family heirlooms created from traditional quilt designs, and they’re part of the Upper Cumberland Quilt Trail. Brochures featuring patterns, maps and the stories behind the quilts are available at many of the information centers along the Ring of Fire.

Tennessee Civil war Trails – Between 1861-1865, Tennessee was a hotbed of Civil War activity. Forming the northern border of the Confederate States of America, Tennessee was the last state to secede from the Union and the first to rejoin after the war’s end. Many of the war’s important sites are preserved and marked as a part of the Tennessee Civil War Trails program, part of a five-state trails system that helps visitors explore the Civil War through the places that tell its story. Look for markers throughout the Ring of Fire Trail, and pick up brochures at any of the information centers and many of the museums on the route.

otheR tRails in the aRea

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Reverse route back to TN-25/Hartsville Pk., turn L. Go 5 miles, turn L on E Main St., turn L on S. Water Ave./ TN-109. Go approx. 1 mile to pt. 89. 810 S. Water ave. gallatin 615-451-2331

Reverse route on S. Water Ave. to Main St. and pt. 90. Public Sq. gallatin Park and walk to visit points 90-92.Interstate Access: I-40, exit 232 (TN-109).Go N into Gallatin.

118 Main St. gallatin 615-452-4000

183 W. Main St. gallatin 615-452-5648

From pt. 90, follow W. Main St. going W for 0.2 mile. Turn L onto US-31E/ Main St. and go 5.6 miles to pt. 93.2310 Nashville Pk. gallatin 615-230-8474

Continue SW on US-31E/Main St. or 2.1 miles. Turn L onto Music City Blvd. to pt. 95.1 Music Village Blvd. hendersonville 615-826-9191

Return to US-31E and turn L. Go 1.5 miles to Anderson St., turn L to pt. 96. 353 e. Main St. hendersonville 615-824-3855

Return to US-31E/ Main St. and turn L. Go 0.7 mile, turn L on Indian Lake Rd. Go 1.9 miles to Rock Castle Ln. and pt. 97.139 Rock castle Ln. hendersonville 615-824-0502

Return to US-31E/ W. Main St. and turn L. Go 1.5 miles, turn L on Imperial Blvd. Turn R on Rockland Rd., make slight L at Power Plant Rd. to pt. 98. 5 Power Plant Rd. hendersonville 615-822-4648

Return to US-31E/ W. Main St. and turn L. Go approx. 0.5 mile to pt. 99. 1154 W. Main St. hendersonville 615-822-0789

Turn R on Gallatin Rd./ US-31E. (This road changes names several times: Gallatin Rd./ US-31E/Main St./Nashville Pk./Johnny Cash Pkwy.) Go less than 1 mile to pt. 100. 1212 W. Main St. hendersonville 615-824-9330

From US-31, turn R on Center Point Rd. Turn L on Caldwell Dr. Go 1.5 miles to pt. 102. 745 caldwell Dr. goodlettsville

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Turn L from pt. 102 to continue on Caldwell Dr., turn L on TN-174/Long Hollow Pk. Turn L on Conference Dr. to pt. 103.900 conference Dr. goodlettsville 615-851-2433

105. Spring Hill Cemetery – (L) this massive landmark dates back to 1785. it’s a beautiful spot, full of shade trees and historic headstones. among the people buried here are country music icons with ties to some of the other Discover tennessee trails & Byways: Roy acuff (White Lightning trail), songwriter Beth Slater Whitson (Nashville’s trace), and Jimmy Martin (Sunny Side trail). acuff and Martin’s graves are located just inside the front gates.

106. Nashville National Cemetery – (R) this 65-acre cemetery contains over 33,000 graves, and at least 17,000 are civil War soldiers; 4,000 unknown. Many of the bodies here were moved and re-interred from over 250 sites around Middle tennessee and Southern Kentucky. Most had been temporarily buried around hospitals and battlefields in Nashville, franklin and gallatin, as well as Bowling green, Kentucky; many were likely prisoners of war.

107. Historic east Nashville – this charming area has one of the largest undisturbed collections of original architecture left in the city. it’s an active and eclectic community, full of restored homes and local businesses.

108. Holly Street Fire Hall – (L) this 1914 fire house was the first in the city built to house motorized fire vehicles, and it’s been continuously used as a fire hall since its construction. it’s a beloved part of the neighborhood and a favorite spot for kids and families to tour.

109. 5 Points District – explore this eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, galleries and music venues in this

you’ll also find the 1787 Bowen Plantation House, restored in the 1980s to preserve and showcase elements of frontier life. tour the fort and home starting at the visitors center in beautiful Moss-Wright Park; if you’re lucky, you may find yourself here during one of the many living history weekends. Open March-Dec.

Kasper Mansker was born in 1750 on a boat traveling to the new world from Germany.

103. Chef’s Market – (R) tucked into the Music city Shopping center, this eatery features artfully prepared food and fabulous desserts.

104. Goodlettsville Chamber of Commerce

(R) Stop in for info about local events and attractions. the Main Street area is home to several antique shops and businesses.

Just off Dickerson Road/Hwy 31W on One Mile Parkway, Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens is the resting place for many country music legends, including David Akeman, “String Bean” on the hit 1970s television variety show Hee Haw.

as you head south toward Nashville on gallatin Pike/hwy 31e, the road separates two cemeteries near the town of Madison, representing two important pieces of Nashville’s heritage: country music and the civil War.

thriving area, the heart of east Nashville’s revitalization. check out the i Dream of Weenie hotdog stand; grab coffee at Bongo Java Roasting Co.; and pop into Art & invention Gallery, ground zero for the tomato art festival held every august.

110. Pedestrian Bridge/LP Field – once a main connector of downtown and east Nashville, this bridge has been restored and continues to function — but for pedestrians and tourists. Park at LP field, home of the tennessee titans and host to spec-tacular concerts including the cMa Music festival; stroll across the cumberland River for beautiful views of downtown. You may recognize the bridge from Big & Rich’s 2004 hit video, “Save a horse, Ride a cowboy.”

Notice “Ghost Ballet for the East Bank Machineworks,” a 2007 sculpture by Alice Aycock. It represents the heritage of the east bank and the momentum and energy of Nashville today.

111. Schermerhorn Symphony Center – from the pedestrian bridge, cross through the court- yard of this state-of-the-art concert hall, occupying a full city block. it’s home to the grammy award-winning Nashville Symphony as well as the tasty Arpeggio Café.

112. Music City Walk of Fame and Nashville Music Garden – as the base of the “Music Mile,” this park features permanent star markers dedicated to influential musicians of all genres. it’s a great place to end the Ring of fire trail; wrapping up a journey through the ghosts of tennessee’s past at a spot dedicated to our music legends.

Visiting our region helps us preserve and tell our stories — thanks for visiting and no matter where your travels take you next, we hope the spirit of the Ring of Fire stays with you.


The beautiful landscape and small-town hospitality just outside Music City has been a popular spot for country music’s biggest names to make their homes, outside of the city’s energy but close enough to the heart of the industry. Here are just a few of the stars who have lived on the Ring of Fire Trail: Johnny Cash (1932-2003) – Known as the “Man in Black,” he was an American singer-songwriter with a distinctive bass voice, and one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Cash got his start as a country music artist, but his career spanned many genres including rockabilly, rock ‘n’ roll, blues, folk and gospel. He was inducted into both the Country Music and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame and is best known for hits like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “A Boy Named Sue,” and, of course, “Ring of Fire,” co-written by his wife, June Carter Cash. The couple lived in Hendersonville from 1968 until their

deaths, just four months apart in 2003. June Carter Cash (1929-2003) – This icon began her music career as a child, daughter of Mother Maybelle Carter and member of The Carter Family, the music pioneers who produced some of the first recordings of what we now know as country music. As an adult, June’s solo career earned her wide acclaim as a singer-songwriter, and she was

inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. While performing on the Grand Ole Opry, she met Johnny Cash; they married in 1968, after Johnny proposed to her during a live performance. Together, they won two Grammys for their duets. Learn more about The Carter Family on the Sunny Side: Early County Trail.

Conway Twitty (1933-1993) – In his early career in the late 1950s, some speculated that his voice belonged to Elvis Presley, recording under a different name. As his career took off, the superstar’s 55 #1 hits made him the record-holder for most number one singles of any act until 2006. Twitty’s biggest hit was 1970’s “Hello Darlin,” and he became known for his duets with superstar Loretta Lynn including “After the Fire is Gone” and “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man.” Twitty built a country music entertainment complex around his Hendersonville home (point 95), and was once featured on the 1980s television program Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. A member of the Grand Ole Opry, Twitty was also inducted into both the Country Music and Rockabilly Halls of Fame. Taylor Swift (1989) – This modern pop-country sensation’s career is just taking off, with smash-hit albums and several #1 hits including “Love Story,” which broke records for the most paid country music downloads. She made history at age 14 when she was the youngest staff songwriter ever hired by the Sony/ATV publishing house, and in 2009 became the youngest artist ever to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year Award; she’s one of only six women to receive the honor. Swift grew up along the Ring of Fire, attending Hendersonville High School. The school’s cheerleading squad was featured in her 2009 video for the hit, “You Belong with Me.” Barbara mandrell (1948) – Best known for her hit television variety show in the 1970s and ’80s, this Country Music Hall of Fame member made her home just north of Nashville at Fontanel (point 9). She is the only female performer to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year Award twice; like many of today’s country stars, her appeal crossed into pop music territory. Hits include, “Sleepin’ Single in a Double Bed,” “(If Loving You is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right,” and “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool.”

music legends on the Ring of fiRe

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Continue S on Gallatin Pk./US-31E toward Nashville and pts. 105 & 106.5110 gallatin Pk. Nashville

1420 gallatin Pk. S. Madison 615-860-0086

From pt. 106, turn R and continue on US-31E/ Gallatin Pk. S. toward Nashville. Merge onto TN-155W/US-31E S/ Briley Pkwy. In approx. 0.5 mile, take exit 15B for US-31E S/ Ellington Pkwy. Go approx. 3.5 miles, take Cleveland St. exit. Turn L on Cleveland St. and continue onto W. Eastland Ave. Turn L onto Gallatin Ave. Take 1st R onto Eastland Ave. Turn R at N. 16th St. to pt. 108. 1600 holly St. Nashville

Facing pt. 108, turn R on Holly St., turn R on 11th St. to pt. 109.Junction of 11th St., Woodland St. & clearview ave. Nashville

From pt. 109, head SW on Woodland St. towards downtown Nashville. Cross under I-24, turn L on S. 2nd St. Cross Russell St., continue on S. 2nd St. to parking area for pt. 110. Walk across bridge to Shelby Ave. and pts. 111 & 112.Driving directions: Continue on S. 2nd St., turn R on Korean Veterans Blvd. and cross river. Turn R on 3rd Ave. to pts. 111 & 112.

(Shelby Ave. dead-ends at 3rd Ave. & Symphony Pl.)1 Symphony Pl. Nashville 615-687-6400

Pt. 112 is across 3rd Ave. from pt. 111.

Return to TN-174/ Long Hollow Pk., turn L. Turn R on Main St. to pt. 104.117 N. Main St. goodlettsville 615-859-7979

Go S on Main St./ Dickerson Rd./US-41/ 31W. Turn L onto Rivergate Pkwy. Exit R to go S on Gallatin Pk./US-31E.

taking in the trail - tn vacation

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