Cherokee Heritage Trail

Experience Cherokee Heritage

Learn more about the history of the Overhill region and how the Cherokee people helped shape an entire region.

More Information

Winding through mountains, past scenic rivers, and through small towns, you will discover the rich history of the Cherokee people. Follow National Scenic Byways, quiet highways, and backroads to visit sites that offer a glimpse into the past and a view of the present. Museums, historic sites, and memorials tie the past to the present and a people to their land.

Historical Background

The Cherokee once commanded much of the southern Appalachians. Archaeological evidence, early written accounts, and the oral history of the Cherokee themselves demonstrate that Cherokees controlled more than 130,000 square miles. The original Cherokee homeland has been altered over the past 200 years, with new roads and towns, and vanishing chestnuts and buffalo, but the shape of the hills and valleys remain much the same as Cherokees experienced them for thousands of years. And Cherokee people are still here. They live in the modern world but many still sing the old songs and practice the old ways. We invite you to explore part of the Cherokee homeland in Tennessee and North Carolina. Museums and historic sites will reveal the long and compelling Cherokee history, while festivals and events make it possible for you encounter Cherokee people and traditions.

Trail Stops

  1. Fort Loudon
  2. Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
  3. Junaluska Memorial and Museum
  4. Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary
  5. Murphy, NC
  6. Coker Creek, TN

Places to stay near here

FIND COMFORT NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE

The Tennessee Overhill region covers several areas that are full of wonderful places to stay. No matter where you end up, you can rest easy knowing days full of fun and adventure await!

Ocoee Retreat Center

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Red Roof Inn

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Super 8

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Hilltop Hotel

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Company House – B&B

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Rasar Landing

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Watchman’s House

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Spring Creek Retreat

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Economy Inn

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.