Tennessee is a unique Southern state. It's in the South East region of the United States. It's surrounded by eight other states, including Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri.
Where is Tennessee on the map?
When you're looking at the map of the United States, look towards the southeast. Tennessee is a landlocked state, lying between 35.0° N latitude and 86.5° W longitude.
Overview of Tennessee's Geography
Tennessee spans approximately 42,143 square miles. It's long and narrow, spanning 440 miles from east to west and 120 miles from north to south.
The state is divided into three grand divisions: East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, and West Tennessee. These divisions are legally recognized by the state constitution and each have distinctly different geographical features.
East Tennessee
East Tennessee is defined by its mountains. It's home to a portion of the Appalachian Mountains, including the Smoky Mountains, which are some of the highest peaks in eastern North America.
Middle Tennessee
Middle Tennessee is characterized by rolling hills and fertile lands. Here you'll find Nashville, the state's capital and largest city. It's a prime place for farming and has a rich history tied to the Civil War.
West Tennessee
West Tennessee is predominantly flat and is part of the Gulf Coastal Plain. It's home to Memphis, famous for blues music and great BBQ.
Tennessee River System
Tennessee's rivers play a major role in its geography. The Tennessee River is the largest. It flows through all three of Tennessee's grand divisions. This river is a key source of water and power for the state.
Climate of Tennessee
Tennessee's climate is generally moderate with four distinct seasons. The weather can vary from east to west, due to the changes in elevation and geography.
