5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

Whether you're someone who makes resolutions each year or maintains a continuous bucket list, we've got five activities for you to embark on in the upcoming year.

#1. WAKE SURF ON NORRIS LAKE.

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

Experience the thrill of Wake Surfing on Norris Lake! If you're unfamiliar, wake surfing involves riding the boat's wake without being directly pulled by it, providing a freshwater surfing experience. Not quite a surfing pro? No worries! Norris Lake offers a variety of activities such as skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, paddling, or simply floating. With its pristine, clear waters and 800 miles of shoreline, there are numerous secluded coves for any water sport you fancy. For boat rentals, check out Sequoyah Marina and Stardust Marina. If you prefer a motor-free adventure, explore Norris Lake Paddling Adventures and rent a paddleboard or kayak. The possibilities for aquatic fun are endless!

#2. SEE THE WINDMILLS AT WINDROCK

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

Perched atop Buffalo Mountain at Windrock Park, the 256-feet-tall windmills stand like sentinels. The rhythmic "whoosh, whoosh, whoosh" emanating from the impressive 136-foot blades creates a mesmerizing ambiance. While Windrock Park spans 73,000 acres as an off-road haven, fear not – you can conveniently drive to an overlook for a windmill spectacle. Alternatively, for a more adventurous experience, consider renting a side by side from Windrock Park and explore over 350 miles of scenic trails. Extend the adventure into a weekend getaway by opting to stay in one of their cozy cabins or at the campground.

#3. DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKE

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

While at Windrock Park, check out their downhill mountain bike course. Windrock Bike Park has hosted a variety of national races and is a premier destination for downhill riders from near and far. The park offers 51 different trails with a shuttle service available. Other mountain biking trails are available in the area at Norris Dam State Park, Haw Ridge and Loyston Point.

#4. TIME TRAVEL

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

While time-travel has never been proven, Anderson County has the next best thing. It has over 300 years of history on display throughout the county. You can virtually be transported from 18th Century pioneer life in Appalachia to the atomic age to the Civil Rights Era and into the future.

#5. PET A CAMEL

5 THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW YEAR

Little Ponderosa Zoo and Rescue is the perfect place to get up close and personal with just about every animal you can imagine. Be sure to pet the friendly camels and feed them a snack from your hand. Be careful, they’ve been known to try and take the whole bucket of feed! About 98% of their animals are rescues and the children will love the petting zoo.

Updated 2024