Scores of people from Michigan to Alabama will be exchanging trash for treasure at the 25th annual U.S. 127 Corridor Sale, dubbed the World’s Longest Yard Sale, that begins today and lasts until Sunday.

This yard sale phenomenon stretches 690 miles spans from five miles north of Addison, Mich., down south to Chattanooga, Tenn., then switches to Lookout Mountain Parkway, continuing to Gads­den, Ala.

According to a news release from the Fentress County Chamber of Commerce in Jamestown, Tenn., the original intent of the yard sale was to show the abundance of character and travel benefits of taking back roads.

With more than 300 attractions stationed along the yard sale route, yard sale enthusiasts can enjoy an abundance of family-friendly activities. Whether it’s the beautiful, sprawling landscapes, riverboats, railroads, cultural music, arts and crafts, horses, fishing, hiking, bits of travel, or bits of Civil War or American History, there are many opportunities for fun along the way.

The sale began in 1987 and thousands from miles around participate in the sale each year as vendors. A front lawn may be turned into an elaborate showcase as items are displayed and off-road parking is essential.

Heavy traffic should be expected as enthusiasts across the country come to the extended sale by car, truck motor home or plane. Some fly in and rent a car for travel while some pull trailers behind their vehicles. A large vehicle may make the travel difficult, however, as the route is a two-lane highway in some places. “No Parking” or “No Trespassing” signs posted along the route should be honored.

Some book hotel rooms months or even a year in advance, and a few weeks prior to the sale, most hotels are at maximum capacity. Bed and Breakfast lodgings gain plenty of business during the sale. Adding to the adventurous spirit of the trip, some opt for sleeping in their cars or motor homes. Some visitors try and find cancellations, some go up to fifty miles away from the sale route to find lodging and some have even experienced the southern hospitality of being invited into private homes for the night.

The sale is good for the economy with locals selling their old belongings, original crafts and food. Those renting vendor spaces add to the local economy and those who want to break away from the sale may visit local attractions.

For more information regarding the Corridor Sale, visit www.127sale.com or contact the Fentress County Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-327-3945.