In the past six years, my dogs and I have seen a lot of this country. I take a lot of photos when I travel and my favorites are usually the shots with my border collie mixes Bowie and Dio (short for D.O.G.). Without the dogs, it’s just a pretty picture, but with them  it’s a place I’ve been, a place I know and love. From time to time I’ll post some of my favorite photos on here from my travels with Bowie and D.O.G. Today: Tennessee!

Tennessee is definitely one of those states where I haven’t yet spent nearly enough time. I drove through last spring on my road trip from Maine to New Mexico, stopping for a day hike at Backbone Rock and an overnight backpacking loop at Savage Gulf. With its deep quiet woods broken by spectacular vistas over the aptly-named gorge, Savage Gulf should be on every backpacker’s wish list!

While in Tennessee, I also attempted to visit Graceland (after camping at T.O. Fuller State Park on the outskirts of Memphis), but it ended up being absurdly expensive and a bit too hot to leave the dogs in the car. Instead I visited the Graceland gift shop, probably the most insane store I’ve ever seen! So much Elvis stuff! Complete lunacy…

Stone Stairs Bowie at Backbone Rock

Backbone Rock D.O.G.

Tired Bowie, Savage Gulf Backcountry Campsite

Stone Door Dogs, Savage Gulf

The Savage Gulf

Bowie copiloting. He's lucky he's cute.