Building on the last answer, some people also travel North through Damascus into Abingdon and Bristol TN/VA. I have personally driven the TN Side, and wouldn't really even recommend it too highly in the summer, much less the winter; though some people don't mind it. 421 through Bristol has hairpin turns and if it does snow...well...Not to mention that the TN side roads are 2 lane. It wasn't named "Mountain City" for nothing! It is really beautiful though...and if you don't mind the drive the scenery is worth it! The other route into Johnson City is less cumbersome, I'm told, but still no picnic. I'm told the routes to North Carolina and Damascus/Abingdon Virginia (Bristol TN as well if you go through Damascus) are better. But you're talking about a trip if you go very far. (It isn't as small an area as it might appear on a map.) If you're a nurse, than the correctional facility there might employee you...if the state is hiring right now, that is. There are some other opportunities there, though likely limited as it has a small population. Shady Valley is also pretty, but rarely has any homes or land for sale. There are also Many areas in Elizabethton, Unicoi and Erwin and outskirts that are more accessible and have reasonably priced housing if that is all you're looking for....if you need the TN side near Johnson City

Hello, Mountain City TN is 40 minutes from Boone/Blowing Rock area and Appy State. Good roads and little traffic. Little longer back into Johnson City/Elizabethton area - better count on an hour. Roads are winding around Watauga Lake. It is a beautiful area, friendly people and low cost of living. Property is reasonalable but developments in the area have been hit and miss. Good water out in the county can be a problem, especially with the drought. Johnson County has a good GA airport. Red Tail Mountain has a great golf course and club house. Social life is nonexistent locally - but with Boone so close by that's were we go for great meal and entertainment (AP State). Ski Slopes near by for winter fun, Watauga Lake for summer. Excellent hunting and fishing - especially trout - world class trout streams within 30 minute drive. Appalachain Trail runs nearby and the VA Creeper Trail is 20 minutes north near Damascus. If you need more info - drop me a note - I know the area well and keep my crusier on the lake. I have property listed near the lake (walking) and build custom Timberframe homes.