Where is Tennessee Located in the United States?

Tennessee is located in the southeastern region of the United States, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and diverse geography ranging from the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River. The state is often associated with country music, the Civil War, and being a gateway to the American South. Tennessee has a strong agricultural and industrial economy, with a growing focus on tourism and entertainment, especially in cities like Nashville and Memphis.

State Name: Tennessee
Postal Abbreviation: TN
Population: 7 million (2023 estimate)
Area: 42,143 square miles
Capital: Nashville
Largest City: Memphis
Statehood Year: 1796 (16th state)
Time Zones: Central Time Zone (most of the state) and Eastern Time Zone (eastern counties)

Bordering States of Tennessee

Kentucky

To the north, Tennessee shares a border with Kentucky. The boundary runs along the Cumberland Plateau and the Tennessee River in the west. Both states share a similar geography with rolling hills and agricultural areas, especially in the western parts. Kentucky and Tennessee are historically and culturally linked, particularly through music and sports. The cities of Clarksville, TN, and Hopkinsville, KY, are close and share economic ties. The Cumberland Gap, located at the meeting point of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia, is a significant historical pass that served as a key route for early settlers moving west.

Virginia

Tennessee’s northeastern border touches Virginia. This boundary is dominated by the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge, with rugged terrain and forested landscapes. The two states share a long history, especially during the early days of American expansion. Bristol, which straddles the Tennessee-Virginia border, is known as the birthplace of country music. Both states benefit from shared natural resources, particularly coal mining and forestry in the Appalachian region.

North Carolina

To the east, Tennessee shares a border with North Carolina, marked by the Great Smoky Mountains. The two states are closely linked by these mountains, which are home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a major tourist destination. The cities of Asheville, NC, and Gatlinburg, TN, are popular gateway towns for visitors to the mountains. Economically, both states benefit from tourism and outdoor recreation in this region, including hiking, skiing, and camping.

Georgia

Tennessee’s southern border with Georgia is relatively short but significant, particularly near the city of Chattanooga. The two states share strong economic ties, especially in logistics and manufacturing. Chattanooga serves as a transportation hub for both Tennessee and Georgia, connected by major highways like Interstate 75. The southern Appalachian region also influences both states, offering shared cultural and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Alabama

Tennessee shares its southern border with Alabama. The border runs through a mix of rural and mountainous areas, particularly along the Cumberland Plateau. The two states have a strong agricultural connection, with shared farming practices in areas like cotton and soybean production. Huntsville, AL, is a major city near the Tennessee border, known for its aerospace and defense industries, which also impact the economy of southern Tennessee.

Mississippi

To the southwest, Tennessee borders Mississippi, with the Mississippi River forming part of the boundary. Memphis, located near the border, is a key connection between the two states, particularly in terms of transportation, trade, and culture. Memphis’ influence extends into northern Mississippi, particularly in music, food, and commerce. The river serves as a vital transportation route for goods traveling between the two states.

Arkansas

To the west, Tennessee shares a border with Arkansas, separated by the Mississippi River. The two states are connected by major bridges in Memphis, linking the transportation networks of both states. The Arkansas Delta and the Tennessee River Valley share a history of agriculture, especially in cotton and soybean farming. Memphis plays a central role in facilitating trade and travel between Tennessee and Arkansas, particularly along the river.

Missouri

Tennessee shares a small section of its northwestern border with Missouri, along the Mississippi River. This area is primarily rural, with agriculture dominating both sides of the river. The cities of Dyersburg, TN, and Caruthersville, MO, serve as key hubs for trade and transportation along the river. The Mississippi River is a critical economic lifeline for both states, supporting commerce and agriculture.

GPS Coordinates of Tennessee

Tennessee’s general geographic coordinates place it at approximately 35.5175° N latitude and 86.5804° W longitude, positioning it in the southeastern United States with a diverse climate and topography, ranging from low-lying plains to high mountain ranges.

• Northern Coordinates: Tennessee’s northernmost point is near Pickwick Dam, located close to the Tennessee-Kentucky border at 36.6787° N. This region is part of the Highland Rim, a hilly and forested area. The border between Kentucky and Tennessee is primarily a straight line, running through rural and agricultural lands.
• Southern Coordinates: Tennessee’s southernmost point lies near the town of South Pittsburg, in Marion County, at approximately 34.9966° N. This area is located in the southern portion of the Cumberland Plateau, near the border with Alabama and Georgia. The region is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly near the Tennessee River.
• Eastern Coordinates: Tennessee’s easternmost point is located at the tri-state border of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia, in Johnson County, near Mountain City, at approximately 81.6469° W. This region is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its rugged terrain is characterized by high elevations and forested ridges.
• Western Coordinates: The westernmost point of Tennessee is along the Mississippi River, near Reelfoot Lake, at approximately 89.5374° W. This area is part of the Mississippi River Delta and is known for its wetlands, agricultural lands, and historical significance. The river plays a crucial role in commerce and transportation, particularly near the cities of Memphis and Dyersburg.

These GPS coordinates illustrate Tennessee’s geographic diversity, with its eastern and western borders defined by significant natural landmarks—the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River. Tennessee’s central location in the southeastern United States gives it a moderate climate with seasonal variations, influenced by its topography.

Levels of Elevation in Tennessee

Tennessee’s elevation varies significantly from the eastern mountains to the western lowlands, offering a diverse range of landscapes that contribute to its climate, agriculture, and recreational opportunities.

• Highest Elevation: The highest point in Tennessee is Clingmans Dome, located in the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. Clingmans Dome rises to 6,643 feet (2,025 meters) above sea level, making it the third-highest peak in the eastern United States. It is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Appalachian Trail also crosses near Clingmans Dome, making it a significant landmark for hikers.
• Lowest Elevation: The lowest point in Tennessee is located along the Mississippi River at 200 feet (61 meters) above sea level, near the city of Memphis. This area is part of the Mississippi River Delta, a region known for its fertile soils and agricultural productivity. The river serves as a critical transportation and commerce route for the state.
• Average Elevation: The average elevation of Tennessee is approximately 900 feet (274 meters) above sea level. The Central Basin, which includes the city of Nashville, is relatively low-lying compared to the mountainous eastern region. The Cumberland Plateau and Appalachian Mountains to the east are significantly higher, contributing to the state’s varied topography.

Tennessee’s elevation plays a key role in shaping its climate and natural environment. The higher elevations in the eastern part of the state experience cooler temperatures and more precipitation, while the lower areas near the Mississippi River are warmer and more humid. This variation in elevation also supports diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense forests in the mountains to wetlands along the river.

Most Extreme Points of Tennessee

Tennessee’s extreme geographic points highlight its diverse landscapes, from the high mountains of the east to the lowlands along the Mississippi River in the west.

• Easternmost Point: Tennessee’s easternmost point is located in Johnson County, near the town of Trade, at approximately 81.6469° W. This area lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains, a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. The region is known for its rugged terrain, forested hills, and scenic beauty. Mountain City is one of the nearest towns and is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping in nearby Roan Mountain State Park.
• Westernmost Point: The westernmost point of Tennessee is along the Mississippi River, near Tiptonville, in Lake County, at approximately 89.5374° W. This area is part of the Reelfoot Lake region, which is famous for its wetlands, wildlife, and historical significance. Reelfoot Lake was formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 19th century and is now a popular destination for birdwatching, fishing, and boating. The Mississippi River also serves as a major transportation and commerce route for the region.
• Southernmost Point: Tennessee’s southernmost point lies near the town of South Pittsburg, at approximately 34.9966° N, near the Alabama border. This area is located in the southern part of the Cumberland Plateau, which features rolling hills, forests, and rivers. The nearby Tennessee River Gorge offers scenic views and recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Northernmost Point: The northernmost point of Tennessee is located near Kenton, in Obion County, at approximately 36.6787° N, close to the Kentucky border. This area is part of the state’s rural agricultural region, characterized by flatlands and farms. The northern boundary with Kentucky is primarily a straight line, running through the western part of the state and following the Tennessee River in some areas.

These extreme points demonstrate Tennessee’s geographic diversity, with its mountainous eastern region and low-lying western areas along the Mississippi River. Each of these locations offers unique natural beauty and recreational opportunities, from hiking in the Appalachians to exploring wetlands along the Mississippi River.

Major Mountains in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to several significant mountain ranges, particularly in its eastern region, where the Appalachian Mountains dominate the landscape. These mountains are not only important for their natural beauty but also play a key role in the state’s history, culture, and economy.

• Great Smoky Mountains: The Great Smoky Mountains are perhaps the most famous mountain range in Tennessee, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. This range is part of the larger Appalachian Mountain Range and is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. The highest peak in the Smokies is Clingmans Dome, which rises to 6,643 feet. The park offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, and is renowned for its biodiversity, scenic beauty, and cultural history.
• Cumberland Mountains: The Cumberland Mountains are located in the northeastern part of Tennessee and are part of the larger Cumberland Plateau. The range features rugged terrain, steep ridges, and deep valleys. Black Mountain, at 3,621 feet, is one of the highest points in the Cumberland Mountains. This region is rich in natural resources, including coal and timber, and has a history of mining and logging. The Cumberland Gap, a natural pass through the mountains, was a key route for early settlers moving westward.
• Blue Ridge Mountains: The Blue Ridge Mountains run along Tennessee’s eastern border with North Carolina and are part of the Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are known for their scenic beauty, with rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous waterfalls. This region is popular for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The Cherokee National Forest, which covers much of the Blue Ridge in Tennessee, is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species.
• Unaka Mountains: The Unaka Mountains are a subrange of the Blue Ridge Mountains, located in northeastern Tennessee. This range includes Roan Mountain, which rises to 6,285 feet and is known for its expansive views, wildflowers, and rhododendron gardens. The Unaka Mountains are part of the Pisgah-Cherokee National Forest, and the area is popular for hiking, particularly along the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region.

These mountain ranges provide opportunities for recreation, tourism, and conservation while shaping Tennessee’s geography and culture. The mountains are home to a rich diversity of wildlife and plants, and they attract millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy the state’s natural beauty.

Major Rivers and Lakes in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to several major rivers and lakes that are vital to the state’s economy, environment, and recreational activities. These waterways provide resources for agriculture, industry, and power generation, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits.

• Tennessee River: The Tennessee River is the largest and most significant river in the state, running for over 650 miles through Tennessee before flowing into the Ohio River in Kentucky. The river is a major transportation route and is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which operates a series of dams along the river to provide hydroelectric power, flood control, and navigation. The river is also a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports, with several state parks and recreation areas located along its banks.
• Mississippi River: The Mississippi River forms Tennessee’s western border with Arkansas and Missouri. It is one of the most important rivers in North America, serving as a major transportation route for goods and commodities. The city of Memphis, located on the river, is a key hub for shipping, commerce, and industry. The river’s floodplain supports extensive agriculture, particularly in the western part of the state, where crops like cotton and soybeans are grown. The Mississippi River also offers recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Cumberland River: The Cumberland River flows through northern Tennessee, passing through cities like Nashville and Clarksville before joining the Ohio River in Kentucky. The river is used for navigation, recreation, and water supply. Old Hickory Lake and Cheatham Lake, both created by dams on the Cumberland River, are popular destinations for boating, fishing, and camping. The Cumberland River has played a key role in the development of Tennessee’s economy, particularly in transportation and industry.
• Norris Lake: Norris Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Tennessee, created by the construction of Norris Dam on the Clinch River. The lake covers over 34,000 acres and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports. The surrounding Norris Dam State Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Norris Lake is known for its clear waters and scenic beauty, attracting visitors from across the region.
• Reelfoot Lake: Reelfoot Lake, located in northwestern Tennessee, was formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 19th century. The lake is known for its shallow waters, cypress trees, and abundant wildlife, particularly birds. Reelfoot Lake is a designated National Wildlife Refuge and is a popular destination for birdwatching, fishing, and photography. The lake’s unique ecosystem supports a variety of fish species, including crappie, bass, and catfish.

These rivers and lakes are essential to Tennessee’s natural environment and provide numerous recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers, in particular, play critical roles in the state’s economy by supporting transportation, agriculture, and energy production.