Tennessee Valley Authority built them and maintains them. They've got lots of info on their website.
TVA: Navigation on the Tennessee River
You get around the dams through a series of locks. It is possible to go from Knoxville to Mobile, Alabama, by boat. I have some friends who did it. They said it was interesting but expensive in terms of gas.
There are some locks in need of repair. The info should be on the website.
The Tennessee is a working river. You'll see a lot of barge traffic on it.
TVA parks along the rivers and lakes are wonderful. Well maintained and patrolled.
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TN Rivers & Lakes Info on How/Where They Connect?
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