This sparsely populated area of Tennessee never offered much to folks who farm, but was a hotspot for pioneers and fur trappers passing through during America’s colonization period. These days, Obed is a mostly untouched natural environment perfect for outdoor activities like rock climbing, fishing, whitewater rafting and camping.

Before making your own trip, feast your eyes on these captivating photos shot by past winners of the National Park Service’s Obed Wild & Scenic River annual photo contest.

Floating on the Emory at Nemo

Recreation

Photography: Ron Durant

Youth Category

Bouldering with a Ranger

Photography: Kara Hewlett

Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Flora/Fauna

Photography: Peggy Yaeger

Our Place in the Universe

Dark Skies

Photography: Jonathan Pogras

Autumn Fallen

Landscapes

Photography: Travis Tracey

Whitewater Paddler on Clear Creek

Recreation

Photography: Rodney Hendrickson

Rockin’ Rhododendron

Youth Category

Photography: Katelyn Massengale

Whitetail Dragon Fly at Lilly Bluff Overlook

Flora/Fauna

Photography: Bill Merrick

Galactic Skies over the Obed

Dark Skies

Photography: Travis Tracey

Foggy Sunrise over Nemo

Landscapes

Photography: Jeff Parlow