Long Island of the Holston
A historically rich island on the Holston River, significant for Cherokee history and Revolutionary War battles, accessed via a swinging bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for exploring history
Long Island of the Holston
Best Time
Best for exploring history
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically rich island on the Holston River, significant for Cherokee history and Revolutionary War battles, accessed via a swinging bridge.
"A beautiful monument and a swinging bridge lead to a place of deep historical significance for the Cherokee."
🚶♀️ Explore the Greenbelt
Walk the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail for scenic views leading to the island.
🧐 Learn the History
Research the island's significance to the Cherokee and Revolutionary War before visiting.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cherokee Monument
On the island
A monument commemorating the return of land to the Cherokee and the treaty signed in 1777.
Swinging Bridge
Access to the island
A thrilling, slightly swaying bridge that leads to the island, adding an element of adventure.
Kingsport Greenbelt Trail
Adjacent to the island
A scenic trail offering beautiful views and access to the historical island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Respect the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Greenbelt
Walk the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail for scenic views leading to the island.
🧐 Learn the History
Research the island's significance to the Cherokee and Revolutionary War before visiting.
🙏 Respect the Monument
Be mindful of the Cherokee monument; unfortunately, it has been vandalized.
🌳 Appreciate Nature
Enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this historical site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Greenbelt
Walk the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail for scenic views leading to the island.
🧐 Learn the History
Research the island's significance to the Cherokee and Revolutionary War before visiting.
🙏 Respect the Monument
Be mindful of the Cherokee monument; unfortunately, it has been vandalized.
🌳 Appreciate Nature
Enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this historical site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Long Island of the Holston to be a site of significant historical importance, particularly for its connection to the Cherokee people and the Revolutionary War. The swinging bridge and the Cherokee monument are notable features, though some reviewers express disappointment over the lack of clear historical markers and instances of vandalism. The Kingsport Greenbelt Trail offers pleasant access to the island.
"Nothing there, really. No marker, a baseball field dominates the battleground. I guess to history it was just a skirmish between settlers and Cherokee, but to my ancestor, it was the largest battle in Tennessee in the Revolutionary War between militia an British baked forces. There were only 260 combatants and TN was not a state yet, but if you are going to recall the battle, there should be a marker"
karl neblett
"Approaching the bridge, there was a slight fear due to it swinging. It was very safe and kinda exciting! On the island side, there was a beautiful monument for the local Cherokee Indian Tribes. Sadly, someone has spray painted it :( There was a little bit of trash, as well. Contacted the city of Kingsport with no luck. My mother had never known this existed and was very interested to learn more. The grass could've been cut, but it was still a beautiful site! Check it out when you can!"
Nate Zollman
"Very positive vibe. A bit neglected piece of history that can draw flocks of tourists if managed properly."
Milinko Milincic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Long Island of the Holston is accessible via the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail. You can park near the trail and walk to the swinging bridge that leads to the island.
Parking is available along the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail. Specific parking areas can be found near trail access points in Kingsport.
The primary access is via a swinging bridge from the Greenbelt Trail. Be prepared for a slightly wobbly but safe crossing.
While it's a significant historical site, it's often accessed through the public Kingsport Greenbelt Trail system.
No, you cannot drive directly onto the island. Access is pedestrian via the swinging bridge from the Greenbelt Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Long Island of the Holston. It is generally accessible via public trails.
As it's an outdoor historical site accessed via a public trail, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Check local park hours for the Greenbelt Trail.
There is no admission fee to visit the Long Island of the Holston. Access is free through the Kingsport Greenbelt Trail.
While there aren't official guided tours readily advertised, local historical societies or tourism boards might offer them. It's best to check with the Kingsport tourism office.
The Greenbelt Trail is generally accessible, but the swinging bridge to the island may present challenges for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the Cherokee monument, the swinging bridge, and learn about its historical significance as a treaty site and Revolutionary War battleground. +1
Some visitors have noted a lack of a specific marker for the Revolutionary War battle, despite its historical importance.
Unfortunately, the monument has been a target of vandalism with spray paint, though it remains a significant landmark.
Yes, the swinging bridge, the monument, and the natural scenery offer good photographic opportunities. +1
It was the site of a treaty signing in 1777 that ceded Cherokee land and was a significant battleground during the Revolutionary War.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities on the island itself. You'll need to find food options in Kingsport.
Picnicking is possible, but be sure to pack out all your trash to help maintain the site's condition.
Kingsport offers various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, located a short drive from the Greenbelt Trail access.
Typically, the Greenbelt Trail is a recreational path, and food vendors are not common directly on the trail itself.
Popular spots in Kingsport include local diners and American cuisine restaurants. It's recommended to check recent reviews for current favorites.
📸 📸 Photography
The swinging bridge offers a dynamic shot, and the Cherokee monument provides a historical focal point. The surrounding nature is also picturesque. +1
Yes, the natural setting along the Holston River and the island itself can provide beautiful landscape photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically regulated in public areas and historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations with the city of Kingsport before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the bridge and wider landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the bridge's perspective.
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