Cherokee Heritage Trail

Cherokee Heritage Trail

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…

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Unicoi Turnpike Trail

Unicoi Turnpike Trail

Exploring the Ancient Path The old trade and war path now known as the Unicoi Turnpike Trail predates written history. Covering approximately 67 miles from Vonore, TN to Murphy, NC, the Unicoi Turnpike Trail allows modern travelers to follow the footsteps of Indians, fur traders, explorers, British soldiers, and others who used this path for centuries. Along the way, historic…

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Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest is located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee. The 600-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The southern portion of the Cherokee National Forest forms the heart of the Tennessee Overhill.  This vast playground is known…

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Conasauga River / Fish Viewing

Conasauga River / Fish Viewing

Fishing, canoeing and hiking are good ways to enjoy the Conasauga River, but its Underwater Wildlife Viewing Area is unique to the Southeast.   Visitors can see over 70 species of fish.  That’s more than double what is found in the Colorado or Columbia River basins combined.   Learn more Underwater Fish Viewing on the Conasauga River Springing from the…

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Butterflies

Butterflies

If you have never seen a pearly crescent spot or a red spotted purple, then you must visit the Tennessee Overhill in the warm months to view the wide variety of butterflies that dance through the forests and fields.You hear a lot about monarch butterflies, but there are many other kinds of butterflies, all shapes, colors, and sizes. Their names…

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Waterfalls Overview

Waterfalls Overview

People are drawn to the Tennessee Overhill to explore its beautiful natural landscapes. One of the major draws is the many waterfalls located throughout the forest. There are over 50 waterfalls in the Tennessee Overhill, ranging from 5 feet to 130 feet. Those listed below are easily accessible by Cherokee National Forest trails. Keep in mind, waterfalls are beautiful, but…

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Ocoee River / Whitewater Center

Ocoee River / Whitewater Center

Site of the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom Races, the Ocoee River hosts several whitewater events each year. Commercial river outfitters offer expert guides to help you capture the excitement of the Class III and Class IV rapids. Whitewater enthusiasts can now take guided trips on the Olympic Race Channel, located at the Ocoee Whitewater Center. Check with the…

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