Imagine waking up each morning to the gentle rustle of trees, stepping onto your porch with a steaming cup of coffee, and gazing across meticulously manicured fairways that stretch toward the shimmering waters of Tellico Lake. In the distance, the Great Smoky Mountains rise majestically against the horizon, their silhouettes changing with the seasons. This isn’t a vacation—it’s everyday life at WindRiver, East Tennessee’s premier golf and lakefront retirement community.
For discerning retirees seeking the perfect blend of luxury, recreation, and community, WindRiver offers an unparalleled lifestyle that goes far beyond exceptional golf. It’s a place where active adults forge lasting friendships, where natural beauty meets world-class amenities, and where every day feels like the best chapter of your life has just begun.
East Tennessee’s Top-Rated Golf Experience
At the heart of WindRiver lies a golf experience that stands among the finest in the Southeast. Designed by Jack Nicklaus protégé Bob Cupp, the championship course at WindRiver isn’t just a place to play—it’s a masterpiece of golf architecture that challenges, delights, and inspires players of all skill levels.
A Course Designed for Beauty and Challenge
Rolling fairways and undulating greens accent each hole while sparkling water hazards and strategically placed Billy Bunkers guard each green. The par-72 course features six sets of tees ranging from 4,146 yards on the forward tees to a demanding 7,453 yards from the championship tees, ensuring that golfers of every ability find their perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment.
What truly sets WindRiver’s golf experience apart is the harmony between the course and its natural surroundings. As you navigate each hole, breathtaking vistas of Tellico Lake and the Smoky Mountains create a backdrop that enhances every drive, approach, and putt. The course doesn’t just occupy the landscape—it celebrates it, with each hole designed to showcase the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Environmental Excellence
WindRiver holds the distinction of being the first Audubon-certified course in Tennessee, reflecting the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. This prestigious certification ensures that the course not only provides exceptional golf but also preserves and enhances the natural ecosystems that make East Tennessee so special.
Premium Greens and Practice Facilities
The course features premium Prism Zoysia greens, known for their superior playability, consistent speeds, and year-round performance. Beyond the 18 championship holes, WindRiver offers expansive practice facilities including a driving range and dedicated short game area where residents can hone their skills before taking on the course.
Membership and Access
The Golf Club at WindRiver offers flexible membership options to suit various needs. Owner Social & Founding memberships are available to property owners, while Non-Owner Founding, Annual, and Corporate memberships are available for those who wish to enjoy the WindRiver golf experience without residing in the community. The club offers weekday, weekend, and twilight rates to accommodate different schedules and preferences.
Why Choose WindRiver for Your Retirement
While golf may be the centerpiece of WindRiver’s recreational offerings, it’s just the beginning of what makes this community the premier choice for active retirees in Tennessee. From its strategic location to its comprehensive amenities and warm, welcoming community, WindRiver offers a retirement lifestyle that’s as multifaceted as the residents who call it home.
Perfect Location in East Tennessee
WindRiver’s location provides an ideal balance of peaceful seclusion and convenient access to life’s necessities:
Healthcare Proximity: Just 10 minutes from major healthcare facilities, ensuring peace of mind and easy access to medical services when needed.
Airport Access: Only 25 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport, which offers 30+ nonstop flights to destinations across the country, making travel and hosting visitors effortless.
Urban Amenities: A mere 30 miles from Knoxville, providing access to urban dining, shopping, entertainment, and cultural attractions while maintaining a serene lakeside lifestyle.
Natural Wonders: Positioned in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering countless opportunities for hiking, exploration, and outdoor adventure.
This strategic location means WindRiver residents enjoy the best of all worlds—the tranquility of lakeside and mountain living with the convenience of nearby services and attractions. As one resident puts it: “The location is 30 minutes from the airport, Knoxville, or Maryville. Our neighbors are the best we have ever had, and it felt like home almost immediately.”
A Complete Lifestyle Beyond Golf
Life at WindRiver extends far beyond the fairways:
Lakefront Living: Direct access to the pristine waters of Tellico Lake, with one of the best marinas in the area for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Active Lifestyle: Miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the community, offering opportunities for daily exercise amid natural beauty.
Social Scene: A vibrant calendar of events and activities brings residents together year-round, from holiday celebrations to regular social gatherings.
Recreational Variety: Facilities for pickleball, swimming, fitness, and more ensure that every resident finds activities that spark joy and promote wellbeing.
Exciting New Developments on the Horizon
The WindRiver experience continues to evolve with exciting new amenities currently under development. In March 2025, the community broke ground on a spectacular new 25,000-square-foot Clubhouse, expected to open in Summer 2026.
This first-in-class facility, designed by the renowned architectural firm Kuo Diedrich Chi (KDC), will feature:
Stunning Views: Indoor and outdoor spaces with panoramic vistas of the mountains and lake.
Premium Dining: Multiple dining areas and bars for both casual and upscale experiences.
Rooftop Terrace: An elevated space perfect for socializing while enjoying the spectacular surroundings.
Wellness Center: State-of-the-art fitness facilities, spa services, and group fitness studios.
Golf Amenities: A professional golf shop and locker rooms to enhance the golfing experience.
Event Spaces: Including a charming “party barn” for rustic-inspired celebrations and gatherings.
The Clubhouse is just the first phase of the larger Clubhouse Village development, which will transform the area surrounding the Pro Shop into a comprehensive community hub with additional social spaces, dining options, and amenities scheduled for completion in 2026.
The WindRiver Community: What Residents Say
While amenities and location create the framework for an exceptional retirement lifestyle, it’s the people and sense of community that truly make WindRiver special. The residents of WindRiver come from diverse backgrounds and regions across the country, creating a rich tapestry of experiences, interests, and perspectives that enrich daily life.
A Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere
New residents consistently remark on the immediate sense of belonging they experience upon moving to WindRiver:
“The friendliness of this community made our move one of the easiest transitions we’ve ever experienced. We were made to feel welcome immediately by several neighbors with gifts of candles, food and wine, along with invitations for cocktails, meals and boat rides.”
— Rob & Robin S.
This welcoming spirit creates a seamless transition into community life, helping new residents quickly feel at home and forge meaningful connections:
“Our neighbors are the best we have ever had, and it felt like home almost immediately. The feeling of driving through the gate and entering the community is amazing. We feel blessed every day to be here.”
— Michele H.
A Community of Active, Engaging Neighbors
The social fabric of WindRiver is woven from residents who value connection, activity, and engagement:
“We jumped into the social scene here as quickly as we could with all the different activities, sports and games played year-round. We encourage any newcomers to do the same, just dive in and embrace the fun. The people of WindRiver are an eclectic group from so many cities around the U.S. and some are world-travelers, adding to the unique cultural experience.”
Rob & Robin S.
This vibrant social environment creates opportunities for friendships that deepen over time:
“We initially came to WindRiver for many reasons. The most unexpected result was a lifestyle filled with a multitude of interesting activities and friendships that have enriched our lives beyond our imagination.”
Betsy & Steve H.
A Perfect Balance of Nature and Community
Residents frequently cite the harmonious blend of natural beauty and community connection as WindRiver’s most distinctive quality:
“It wasn’t one thing that brought us to WindRiver, it was a combination of several… the land, the lake, and the people all combine to make WindRiver the very special place we call home.”
John & Wendy L.
The aesthetic appeal of the community itself creates a sense of serenity and belonging:
“When we first drove in the entrance of WindRiver, Ray knew this was the place. The gracious tree lined curving road with beautiful green grass and landscaping spoke to him! We are very happy here. WindRiver has exceeded our expectations.”
Ray & Ellen P.
Living Options at WindRiver
WindRiver offers some of the most breathtaking golf real estate in Tennessee. Whether you’re seeking a custom-built dream home overlooking the fairways, a waterfront property with direct lake access, or a low-maintenance residence with mountain views, WindRiver provides diverse living options to suit various preferences and lifestyles.
The community’s thoughtful design ensures that homes blend harmoniously with the natural landscape, respecting and enhancing the beauty of the surroundings while providing luxurious, comfortable living spaces.
“When my husband and I first drove through the gates and down the main road, we were struck by the beauty and a sense of magic that WindRiver offers. We thought we were buying a lot and building our dream house. We in fact did just that, but we discovered so much more.”
Betsy & Steve H.
Real estate opportunities at WindRiver are increasingly sought-after, with demand accelerating as more people discover this exceptional community:
“Being a resident and real estate agent at WindRiver, it became very apparent the demand for lakefront & lakeview property was accelerating rapidly with so many buyers moving from high tax states… My advice to anyone searching for freshwater lake property, with resort lifestyle in the southeastern US… do not wait, the demand is quickly accelerating and supply shrinking!”
Tom C.
East Tennessee: The Ideal Setting for Active Retirement
East Tennessee offers distinct advantages that make it an ideal retirement destination, particularly for those seeking an active, golf-centered lifestyle.
Four-Season Climate with Year-Round Golf
Unlike retirement destinations that suffer from extreme heat, humidity, or prolonged winter conditions, East Tennessee enjoys a moderate four-season climate that allows for year-round outdoor activities, including golf. You’ll experience the beauty of changing seasons—from vibrant spring blooms to the spectacular colors of fall—while enjoying comfortable temperatures for golf and outdoor recreation throughout most of the year.
“We have called Tennessee home for 34 years because we fell in love with the lifestyle it offers with its 4 seasons, the mountain and lake views, the biking and walking trails and loving Southern hospitality.”
Rob & Robin S.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
The region surrounding WindRiver is renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities:
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: America’s most visited national park is just a short drive away, offering endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Tellico Lake: This pristine 16,000-acre lake features 373 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and water sports.
State Parks and Forests: Numerous protected natural areas provide additional settings for outdoor adventure.
Scenic Drives: The region’s winding roads reveal breathtaking vistas around every turn.
Cultural and Educational Opportunities
The proximity to Knoxville and the University of Tennessee provides WindRiver residents with access to a rich array of cultural and educational experiences:
University Events: Lectures, performances, and continuing education opportunities.
Museums and Galleries: Including the Knoxville Museum of Art and the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture.
Performing Arts: Symphony performances, theater productions, and concerts.
Sporting Events: SEC athletics at the University of Tennessee and professional sports.
Favorable Economics for Retirees
East Tennessee offers financial advantages that enhance quality of life in retirement:
Lower Cost of Living: Your retirement dollars stretch further in Tennessee compared to many popular retirement destinations.
Tax-Friendly Environment: Tennessee has no state income tax and low property taxes relative to many states.
Affordable Healthcare: Quality medical care at reasonable costs, with several major medical centers nearby.
Strong Real Estate Value: Homes in the region typically offer excellent value and appreciation potential.
A Day in the Life at WindRiver
Imagine a typical day as a WindRiver resident:
You wake early to catch the sunrise over the Smoky Mountains from your back porch. After breakfast, you head to the golf course for a morning tee time with friends, navigating the challenging layout while soaking in views of the lake and mountains. The friendly staff at the Pro Shop greets you by name, and you exchange pleasantries with fellow residents as you prepare for your round.
After golf, you might stop by the marina to check on your boat or perhaps join neighbors for an impromptu cruise on Tellico Lake. The afternoon might include a dip in the pool, a game of pickleball, or a peaceful walk along the community’s scenic trails.
As evening approaches, you gather with friends at Citico’s Restaurant for dinner, where conversation flows freely and laughter fills the air. The day ends with a quiet moment on your porch, watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues of orange and purple, grateful for another perfect day in your WindRiver paradise.
“Every place that we’ve lived, there’s always one thing about it that we say ‘Oh boy, that was what we really liked about it.’ And then we moved to Tennessee, and we think about it. We think about enjoying the lake. It’s a clean lake. It’s a deep lake. There’s so much activity on the lake that you can do with our friends around. Anything, if you want to go to the Smokies we do that. If you want to go shopping or to the nail salon with the women; it’s very active here and just lovely people. We’re playing pickleball. There’s just so much to do that we just love it. We just love it. I think we’ll stay here. This is definitely home. It just feels right. It’s the best decision we’ve ever made.”
Steve & Gina W.
The Search for the Perfect Retirement Community Ends Here
Many WindRiver residents share a common experience: after extensive research and visits to numerous communities across multiple states, they found everything they were looking for at WindRiver.
“Our search for the right retirement community spanned five states and five years. At WindRiver we found all our search criteria—water, golf, gated-security, privacy, excellent medical care, and close proximity to shopping and amenities. We had found this unique combination extremely difficult to find and have enjoyed the convenience.”
George F.
What makes WindRiver stand apart from other retirement communities is its rare combination of amenities and attributes:
“We did a great amount of research regarding cities and communities in which to retire and selected Knoxville for many reasons. It has a significant university presence, an attractive cost of living, beautiful scenery, and proximity to the Smokies, arts and culture opportunities, and great healthcare options. In looking for a community, WindRiver was ideal as it provided us with everything we were seeking.”
Randa M. & Bruce T.
Even those who have lived in traditionally popular retirement destinations find WindRiver offers a superior lifestyle:
“After living 35 years in beautiful Naples, Florida, we knew as soon as we crossed the front gate at WindRiver, this is where we wanted to retire. Everyone is always amazed that we chose to move to Tennessee rather than stay in Florida. Most people dream of retiring to Florida. WindRiver definitely changed our minds. The combination of the golf course, the lake, the rolling hills and the view of the Great Smoky Mountains just couldn’t be beat. We love our home, our neighbors, and the community as a whole. We have never regretted our decision. It’s the perfect paradise.”
John G.
Your Invitation to Experience WindRiver
If you’re considering a retirement that offers the perfect blend of championship golf, lakefront living, mountain views, and a warm, welcoming community, WindRiver deserves a place at the top of your list. Many current residents knew from their first visit that they had found something special:
“When we drove through the gates, I was immediately surprised by how beautiful the community was. It has this beautiful lake with probably the best marina in the area. So, between the golf, the lake, the hiking trails that they have here, to me it has everything that we were looking for in retirement.”
Joel & Allison T.
WindRiver isn’t just a place to retire—it’s a place to thrive, to forge new friendships, to pursue passions, and to write the most rewarding chapter of your life story. As one resident succinctly puts it:
“Both of us can honestly say that WindRiver is the greatest place we have ever lived in our 58 years of marriage… There is no doubt that we are living our lives on the fun side of the WindRiver gate. If I would give any advice to those wondering if they should buy here, it would be, jump at the chance and enjoy the rest of your lives in the greatest place in East Tennessee.”
Steve & Kaye M.
Your Next Step
Ready to experience the WindRiver lifestyle firsthand? We invite you to schedule a discovery visit and tour of our community. Walk the golf course, visit the marina, explore our trails, and meet the residents who make WindRiver such a special place to call home.
Contact our team today to arrange your personal tour and take the first step toward joining East Tennessee’s premier golf retirement community. Don’t wait—discover why so many active adults have found their perfect retirement paradise at WindRiver.
For more information or to schedule a tour, call (865) 988-0370 or visit our website at www.windriverliving.com.
