description Tennessee Overview
The Tennessee River is a major river of the southeastern United States and the largest tributary of the Ohio River by drainage basin. It begins near Knoxville, where the French Broad and Holston rivers meet, then winds through Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky before entering the Ohio near Paducah. The river's 652-mile navigable channel is managed through dams and locks associated with the Tennessee Valley Authority, supporting navigation, flood control, hydropower, and recreation.
help Tennessee FAQ
Where does the Tennessee River begin?
The Tennessee River begins near Knoxville, Tennessee, where the Holston and French Broad rivers meet. The confluence is in East Tennessee.
Where does the Tennessee River end?
It flows through Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky before joining the Ohio River near Paducah, Kentucky. The Ohio then carries its water toward the Mississippi River.
Why is the Tennessee River called the largest tributary of the Ohio?
The Tennessee River basin covers about 40,890 square miles, making it the Ohio River's largest tributary basin. Its drainage network includes the Holston, French Broad, Clinch, and Hiwassee rivers.
What did the Tennessee Valley Authority build along the Tennessee River?
The Tennessee Valley Authority operates a large system of dams and reservoirs on the river and its tributaries. These reservoirs are sometimes called the Great Lakes of the South.
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