Doe Mountain has big plans for the future

Over the past several years, Doe Mountain Recreation Area has experienced significant growth as we continue investing in infrastructure, recreation opportunities and long-term planning for Johnson County's outdoor future. What began as a vision to transform reclaimed mountain land into a public recreation destination has steadily evolved into one of Northeast Tennessee's most unique adventure areas. One of the most visible areas of progress has been the expansion of the trail system. In recent years, more than 10 miles of dedicated hiking and mountain biking trails have been built, creating new opportunities for non-motorized recreation and scenic exploration. At the same time, miles and miles of OHV trails have been constructed and improved, expanding access across thousands of acres and connecting visitors to scenic overlooks and rugged mountain terrain. DMRA has also made significant improvements to safety and visitor amenities. Four storm shelters have been installed to provide protection during severe weather, and observation platforms now offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park's historic fire tower has also been rebuilt, preserving a landmark while enhancing the visitor experience. New recreation opportunities continue to expand. Through the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative grant program, DMRA built a 3.5-mile intermediate singletrack motorcycle trail, adding a new riding experience for off-road enthusiasts. The park has also expanded its rental offerings with Polaris RZR 1000 side-by-sides and Polaris Slingshots, giving visitors who do not own equipment the chance to explore the area. Looking ahead, DMRA has completed a comprehensive master plan and purchased the Pedro Shoun property. Plans include an RV park, cabins, campground, amphitheater, bathhouse, and lodge, all designed to connect directly to the trail system and support multi-day stays. DMRA has also expanded beyond the mountain by acquiring Roan Creek Campground following heavy damage from Hurricane Helene. Plans are underway to reopen and expand the facility to serve more visitors. Additionally, the authority recently purchased the Adventure Center property from Johnson County, further strengthening operations. Altogether, DMRA has invested more than $1.2 million in improvements and acquisitions with the goal of creating a sustainable, financially self-sufficient recreation system for the region.