East Tennessee includes the Appalachian Plateau and The Appalachian Ridge and Valley Region, and the Blue Ridge Region. The Appalachian Plateau derives its name from its flat-topped mountains, like Look-out Mountain, from the top of which one can see seven states. The region is equally famous for its V-shaped valleys. This is a mineral-rich area, which produces thousands of tons of coal, petroleum, and natural gas every year.

The Appalachian Ridge and Valley Region extends westward from the Blue Ridge region for fifty-five miles. It consists of narrow ridges and broad valleys in the eastern part of the region. This area is called the Great Valley. More coal is mined in this area than in any other part of the state. The Region’s fertile farmland is surrounded by heavily forested ridges.

The Blue Ridge region along the eastern edge of Tennessee is the most mountainous part of the entire state. The average elevation of the region is 5,000 feet. Clingman’s Dome, the highest mountain, is 6,643 feet high. Six mountain ranges crisscross the Blue Ridge Region: the Bald, Chilhowee, Great Smoky, Holston, Iron, Roan, Stone, and Unicoi mountains. Timber is the most valuable natural resource, although some minerals can be found there as well.