Let Water Be Your Guide

"Tennessee's outdoor heritage extends to our rivers, lakes, and streams. We are creating a blueway trail network to improve access to state waterways, boost rural economies, and welcome more Tennesseans and visitors to enjoy our beautiful waters."
— Governor Bill Lee

BluewaysTN

BluewaysTN represents a bold, statewide initiative to enhance, protect, and celebrate Tennessee's incredible rivers for generations to come. This initiative seeks to balance recreation, conservation, and economic growth, through a connected network of recreational river corridors across all of Tennessee.

From the whitewater adventures of the Hiwassee and Nolichucky Rivers to the peaceful floats on the Buffalo River, from world-class fishing on the Caney Fork to duck hunting along the Obion—Tennessee's rivers are where memories are made, communities connect, and our natural heritage thrives.

What is a Blueway?

A Blueway is simply a managed stretch of river that is shared for recreation, an age-old pastime. Tennesseans paddle, fish, and explore dozens of rivers across the state, each one offering its own sense of place, adventure, and ecological richness. A Tennessee Blueway grants select rivers a special designation and a shared management vision that keeps them accessible and well-cared-for long into the future. Blueway status strengthens public access, supports local economies through tourism, and safeguards the wildlife habitat, clean water, and cultural heritage that make these rivers irreplaceable.

Blueways offer opportunities for everyone. Whether you are a recreational paddler, angler, hunter, or nature enthusiast, Tennessee's Blueways have something for you.

BluewaysTN Will Launch With These 15 Rivers

82% of Tennessee is within 20 miles of a Tennessee Blueway.

BluewaysTN is For You, Your Community, and Our Future

FOR YOU

Enhanced Access: Better places to launch your kayak, cast your line from bank or boat, or just enjoy a day in the water

Safer Experiences: Improved signage, safety information, and access points

Enhanced Amenities: Improved parking, restrooms, picnic areas, and connections to trails

Conservation: Protected waters and habitats for wildlife and future generations

FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

Economic Growth: Outdoor recreation generates $13 billion annually in Tennessee and supports over 103,000 jobs

Tourism: Attract visitors who support local restaurants, shops, outfitters, and lodging

Community River Towns: Celebrate your river's unique character, history, and culture

Quality of Life: Connect people to nature and strengthen community bonds

FOR OUR FUTURE

Water Quality: Monitor and protect clean water for recreation and wildlife

Habitat Protection: Preserve diverse ecosystems and native species

Stewardship: Build a culture of caring for Tennessee's natural resources and rivers

Legacy: Ensure these rivers remain treasured assets for your grandchildren

We’re Planning Now — And We Need Your Voice

We’re building Recreation Plans for every BluewaysTN river, and your insight will guide the work. We’ll gather input through interviews, focus groups, surveys, and public meetings—so everyone who cares about these rivers can help shape their future.

Every Voice Matters

Whether you’re a:

Paddler seeking better access, more information, and safety considerations

Angler or Hunter wanting to protect prime habitat

Outfitter or Business Owner looking to grow river-based tourism

Conservationist focused on water quality and wildlife

Local Resident/Private Landowner who loves your river and wants to preserve it

First-time Visitor curious about exploring Tennessee's waterways

Your perspective is essential.

Get Involved with BluewaysTN

Tennessee’s rivers have shaped our state’s history, culture, and economy for generations.

Now it’s our turn to shape their future—together.