vsmokes, Author at Smoky Mountains in NC

Smoky Mountain Winter Adventures

One of our favorite times to visit the NC Great Smoky Mountains is in winter! Explore outdoor sports and adventure in the beautiful snowy landscape, hike the trails without the crowds, and relax by a cozy fire in a resort or secluded cabin. Visitors will find plenty of fun activities all season long – both outdoor and indoor. Here are our top choices for wintertime fun in the mountains.

Winter Hikes in the Smoky Mountains

For the outdoor enthusiasts, the good news is that the winters can be relatively mild and the main roads remain passable most all of the time. That means you can access trailheads and get stunning and unobstructed winter views. Here are some of our favorites.

• Rough Fork Trail begins with a relatively flat, easy 2-mile hike in Cataloochee Valley, home to the famous Smoky Mountain elk herd that has been reintroduced successfully. The historic Woody House, built by early settlers about 150 years ago, sits at the 1-mile mark.

• Max Patch offers an elevated beautiful view from every angle along its 2.4-mile loop. Make sure to pack proper attire and have a four-wheel drive vehicle if there has been a snowfall.

• Lake Junaluska offers fantastic views with a flatter trail. Choose from a 2.3 or 3.8-mile loop along the lake and enjoy the view from the many benches along the trail. This trail is friendly to strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters.

• Whiteside Mountain offers panoramic views along a 2-mile loop in Nantahala Forest National Park near Cashiers.

Frozen Waterfall Adventures

Frozen Waterfall in the mountains — During the coldest months, waterfalls can become frozen works of art.

During the coldest months, waterfalls can become frozen works of art. Hiking through a winter forest is a serene experience. There’s little noise except for the occasional wildlife scurrying about. Even the roar of the waterfalls can fall silently if it’s cold enough to freeze over. Here are our favorite winter cascades.

• Rainbow Falls, named for the rainbow you can sometimes spot in the mist, stands at a majestic 150 feet at the end of a 1.5-mile trail. Getting there takes less time, as it is mostly downhill, but you still have to hike your way back out.

• Deep Creek Falls, only 3 miles from downtown Bryson City, gives you the option of a 2.7-mile or 5-mile loop that takes you by 3 stunning waterfalls. The area is at a low enough elevation that it sees little snow, so it’s a good option for a winter-wonderland hike.

• Soco Falls on the edge of the Cherokee Indian Reservation is a double waterfall that offers many magnificent views and is especially spectacular in the winter months.

• Mingo Falls offers a challenging step hike (161 steps to be exact) to view the cascades down 200 ft. along a multitude of boulders.

Insider Tip: Exercise extreme caution when exploring waterfalls, especially in the winter. The rocks are icy so stay at the foot of the falls. Never attempt to climb to the top.

Click here for additional waterfalls to explore this winter.

Skiing and Tubing

For the snowbirds out there, the NC Great Smoky Mountains offer skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing options for the whole family.

• Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain is a great place to experience multiple winter activities all in one place. They have skiing for all ages, including a bunny slope for beginners, ice-skating, and tubing. Enjoy hot chocolate in the café after a day of fun.

• Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley offers 18 slopes for a variety of levels, exceptional views, and fun for the whole family. With elevations of 5,400 feet and the temperature just right, this haven for ski lovers stays open longer than most regional ski resorts.

• Sapphire Valley Ski Area boasts a 1,600-foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet! Enjoy the state-of-the-art quad-lift, a learning slope, and a tube park with multiple lanes. Those who don’t want to partake will love to sit by the warm fire at the base Fire Pit and Park.

• Cross Country skiers looking to create their own adventure may want to check out the 7-mile road leading to Clingman’s Dome. The road is closed to motor vehicles from December 1 to March 31, so if snow conditions are right, this gorgeous spot is perfect for your serene expedition.

Cozy Indoors Retreats

The outdoors can be amazing during the winter months, but for those who want to stay warm and cozy the Great Smoky Mountains offers plenty of indoor options.

Test your Luck

Harrah's Cherokee Hotels & Casinos - playing craps — Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, North Carolina’s very first casino, offers 1,200 slot machines, 30 plus gaming tables, restaurants, entertainment and a spa all in one spot.

• You can also take the scenic drive from Cherokee over to Murphy, NC to play at the newer Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River, which features 1,200 slot machines, 30-40 gaming tables, and a 300-room hotel.

Arts and Crafts Experiences

Handmade arts are part of the cultural footprint of the Smoky Mountains. Visitors should stop by one of these galleries while exploring the region.

• No trip would be complete without a visit to the oldest Native American Co-op in the U.S., the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Co-op. Hosting over 350 Cherokee artisan members, the co-op offers high-quality Cherokee art and crafts using many of the traditional methods.

• The Native American Craft Shop in Cherokee offers limited-edition prints from Native American artists, pottery, and other crafts that would be a great addition to any art collection.

• The Macon County Art Association’s Uptown Gallery in downtown Franklin features exhibits by local artists and works to promote art in the area. The Uptown Gallery also offers year-round workshops and classes.

• Goldhagen Studios in Hayesville is a fascinating place to watch live glass blowing demonstrations by renowned artist David Goldhagen while perusing his work in the gallery.

• If you don’t want to miss a thing, travel the Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Information on the craft trails can be found at the Blue Ridge Heritage Area website. It includes filters to help you explore the craft mediums that interest you the most, or you can see all of the craft opportunities in a given region or town. New towns and experiences are being added to the trails system regularly.

Museums and Culture

Tribe members standing outside of The Museum of the Cherokee Indian. — The Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

Learn about regional history and peruse the displays at some of the eclectic museums found in the mountains.

• The Museum of the Cherokee Indian takes you on a journey from the early days of Cherokee hunter-gatherers to the Trail of Tears and beyond. The museum offers a fascinating history of the tribe.

• The Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley offers a collection of rare American vintage motorcycles, classic cars, and memorabilia.

• The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center offers an artesian gallery featuring over 125 artists and craftsmen. Visitors can also enjoy trying cultural foods from local sources, and both art and cooking classes.

• For the cat lovers, the American Museum of the House Cat in Sylva boasts vintage and modern cat art, cat art glass, and an archive of cat memorabilia.

• Located in Bryson City, the Top 10 nationally ranked Smoky Mountain Train Museum has train displays for all ages and model train enthusiasts alike.

• The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum, located in the Old Jail, features eight rooms filled with gems and minerals from all over the world – one of the largest collections in the Southeast.

• If you’re of Scottish ancestry or just fascinated by the history, the Scottish Tartans Museum not only displays the Scottish Tartans, but it is also a wealth of lore about the Scots’ culture, dress and migration.

Rest Your Head

With all the winter fun that the Great Smoky Mountains offer, visitors can rest and relax at a variety of cozy accommodations.

• For non-stop excitement and entertainment options, book a room at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort or Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River. Add a little thrill to your winter getaway!

• For peace and luxury, Fontana Mountain Resort, located in the Nantahala Forest, has a variety of accommodations from rooms in the lodge to private cabins. The property has trails and a year-round pool.

• The Buckwood Log Lodge offers warm and rustic accommodations in the heart of Highlands, NC.

• Cataloochee Ranch Resort offers accommodations for small and larger groups. Amenities include outdoor and indoor entertainment, a 20-foot heated spa, and fireplaces in most lodgings. NOTE: The resort is currently being renovated but is expected to reopen in 2023.

Here are some other places to consider when looking for Smoky Mountain accommodations.

Featured image courtesy of Adam Duff.

Celebrate Smoky Mountain Holiday Traditions

Enjoy a cozy and festive holiday escape in the North Carolina Smokies. There are plenty of gorgeous winter-time mountain views to go around. Wander among dazzling light displays, ride the Polar Express, enjoy a small-town parade on main street, and support local small businesses as you check off the gifts on your shopping list. Take part in the holiday cheer happening across the Smoky Mountains at one of these great events. Please note that scheduled events are subject to change—refer to event websites and organizers for the most up-to-date information. We’ll update this blog as we learn of new events.

Our Top Picks For Holiday 2022 Events in the Smoky Mountains

People boarding The Polar Express in Bryson City — The Polar Express. Photo courtesy of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

The Polar Express Train Ride

November 10 – December 31, 2022

All aboard! The Polar Express is waiting to take you and your family on a fantastic holiday ride to The North Pole to meet Santa Claus. This 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while they listen and read along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board the train, greet each child and present them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung on the return back to the Bryson City Depot.

Christmas Cookie Walk and Bazaar

December 3, 2022, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Fill your basket with a remarkable selection of Christmas cookies and treats while getting in some early holiday shopping. Visit the Christmas Cookie Walk and Bazaar at the United Methodist Church at 76 Main Street in Bryson City. All proceeds benefit the United Methodist Women’s Group’s outreach efforts.

NEW for 2022! Smoky Mountain Christmas Light Spectacular

Now through December 31, 2022 from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. (Check here for specific days.)

Create a new holiday tradition in Bryson City this year at the 1st Annual Christmas Light Spectacular! Drive through the giant LED light displays of the 12 Days of Christmas while listening to festive music on your mobile device.

Franklin’s Winter Wonderland Nights

Kids on ice slide in Franklin — Winter Wonderland in Franklin

Saturdays, November 26 & December 3, 2022, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Visit the town of Franklin for their 2022 Winter Wonderland festivities! Enjoy unique holiday experiences like living window displays, live sounds of the season, extended shopping hours, and you may even catch a glimpse of Santa! Attendees can witness the annual lighting of the Christmas tree during the first night of the event.

Andrews Magic on Main Electric Christmas Parade

Saturday, December 10, 2022, 5:30 p.m.

You don’t want to miss the Small Town, Bright Lights Christmas Parade! Festively decorated floats will be gliding through downtown Andrews, filling the cozy, small town with holiday cheer. Bring your favorite candy-catching sack to fill with the sweet treats being thrown to the crowds. New this year, Santa will be visiting Cocoa Alley from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., immediately following the parade. Bring your cameras to capture the holiday memories. Special note: The parade route has been changed to begin at the West End Plaza this year.

Christmas in Highlands

Light Up the Park and Santa in Highlands, November 26, 2022, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Highlands, N.C. welcomes you to join them in their holiday celebrations for their annual tree lighting. The trees in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park will sparkle with millions of lights, to be switched on promptly at 6 p.m. and can be enjoyed by car or on foot. Tune in to WHLC 104.5 FM for a festive program with holiday music, Christmas carols and Santa Claus reading The Night Before Christmas.

Evenings set amongst the softly lit trees of the park, joy and laughter from the ice-skating rink, it’s all available for you throughout the holiday season.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be stationed in the Kelsey Hutchinson Park that evening to hear your Christmas wish list.

Trim Our Town, November 26 – December 24, 2022

Light Up the Park kicks off Trim Our Town, where local storefronts engage in a holiday decorating contest. When you vote for your chosen window, you can also win a special prize! Watch for posters at participating stores and vote online for your favorite.

Highlands Christmas Parade, December 3, 2022, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

This long-standing Highlands Christmas tradition features camels, bands, and floats decorated by community organizations parading down Main Street.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the beloved dancing ladies from Mountain Garden Club leading the way at 10 a.m., before the parade begins!

Dillsboro luminaries. Photo courtesy of Discover Jackson NC

Dillsboro Festival of Lights and Luminaries

December 2, 3, 9, and 10, 2022, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The Dillsboro Festival of Lights and Luminaries is a step back into Christmas past. Experience Christmas magic as the entire town transforms into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song. 2500 luminaries light your way to shops and studios. Horse and buggy rides are available each night, shopkeepers provide live music and serve up holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa, carolers sing, and children visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Murphy Farmers Christmas Market

Saturday, December 3, 2022, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Experience holiday magic in beautiful downtown Murphy, NC at the Murphy Christmas Parade starting at the Valley Village Shopping Center.

Sylva NC holiday display — Sylva, NC, holiday display.

Robbinsville Christmas Parade

December 10, 2022, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The Town of Robbinsville will ring in the start of the holiday season with the Robbinsville Christmas Parade. Floats, Cars, Fire Trucks, Santa, and much more are in store. Bring the family to enjoy the excitement of Christmas. The parade starts at Robbinsville High School.

Holiday Fireworks

Friday, December 16, 2022, 7:30 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

Celebrate the season with the 3rd Annual Holiday Fireworks display, visible from all over downtown Sylva, NC. Prior to the fireworks, the Jackson County Chamber and Visitor Center is hosting a holiday-themed concert, featuring Terri Lynn Queen and Scott Baker on the chamber’s front porch. Rumor has it there may be a special appearance by Ol’ Saint Nick himself! Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa during this free event.

A Night Before Christmas

December 10, 2022, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Waynesville turns into a holiday playground for children and children at heart. Shop and dine along a luminary lined street, tell Santa (and Mrs. Claus, too!) your Christmas wishes and enjoy musicians and carolers.

Insider Tip: Visit the Living Nativity under the stars, sponsored by First Baptist Church in Waynesville!

Appalachian Christmas at Shelton House

Sunday, December 4, 2022, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The whole family will be dazzled by the twinkling lights of Tinsel Trail at the Shelton House, a museum of NC handicrafts, in Waynesville, NC. The Tinsel Trail will stay lit every evening from dusk until dawn for the month, so everyone should get outside to celebrate the season. Santa Claus will be on the scene with his real sleigh on December 4th, so bring the kids for a special photo opportunity! Make sure they bring their letters for Santa to be sent along the “Reindeer Express” to the elves waiting for their Christmas list.

Where to Find Beautiful Fall Color in the Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina offers stunning natural beauty year-round, but fall is an extra special time to visit the region to see autumn’s colorful quilt covering the ridge tops. Thanks to the extreme variations in elevation, the Smoky Mountains enjoy one of the longest leaf-peeping seasons in the country. The first pops of color begin in late September along the highest elevations (over 6,000 feet) and continue through early November as color rolls down to the foothills. This means you can find stunning fall color at any point of the season.

The 2022 Fall Color Season Has Now Ended.

We had a banner year for fall color. Be sure to visit this page again next year for updates on the 2023 fall color season.

2022 Fall Color Forecast

According to local biologists and fall foliage experts, the Smoky Mountains should experience a bright and colorful season. Warm dry days and cool nights are the recipe for stunning autumn hues, which the mountains have been experiencing since the first days of fall this year. While parts of the country experienced warmer than usual summertime temperatures, summer in the Smoky Mountains was relatively moderate so the trees aren’t as stressed as we head into leaf season. Fall leaf prognosticators say we could have a slight delay in color development if warmer temperatures persist longer than usual.

Where to look for early fall color

During the earliest part of the season (late September – early October) you typically need to go above 4,000 feet in elevation to find fall color. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the higher points. Areas that tend to transition first along this scenic drive are Waterrock Knob (elevation 6,293’), the 16th highest peak in the eastern United States, Graveyard Fields (elevation 5,020’), a popular hiking spot with easy trails and multiple waterfalls, and Black Balsam Knob (elevation 6,214’), which offers near-360 views of the surrounding mountains. Another scenic drive to explore is the Cherohala Skyway near Lake Santeetlah. It spans the Great Smoky Mountains from North Carolina to Tennessee, connecting mountain peaks with elevations up to 5,390 feet at its highest point.

October is when fall color begins to accelerate across the mountains. Cooler nights and warm days provide the Smokies with the perfect weather conditions to produce peak season colors. When exploring for trees in transition, be sure to look down to find wildflowers adding their own pops of color to the season.

Typically around the second week of October is when Highlands, NC (elevation 4,117’), begins to see color emerge. Oaks, red maples, black cherries, and birches are all typically the first to turn. Blueberry bushes at the higher elevations will turn a brilliant red. A scenic drive along US Route 64 from Franklin to Highlands offers a beautiful way to see the color and some waterfalls along the way.

Top picks for mid season fall foliage

In mid-October, you’ll find fall color heading into elevations around 3,000 – 4,000 feet. During this time you should visit Cashiers (elevation 3,484’), located in the heart of Jackson County. Nearby you can hike Whiteside Mountain, a 2.2-mile hike with gorgeous long-range views.

Around the North Carolina Smoky Mountains you’ll find fall foliage appearing around small mountain towns like Andrews and Maggie Valley. This is a great time to check out the Joyce Kilmer National Forest, a popular hiking spot near Robbinsville in Graham County. The combination of towering old-growth poplars and fall color make this a sought after spot for color hunters. Nearby you’ll find Lake Santeetlah, one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, thanks in part to the Nantahala National Forest that borders it.

In late October, fall color will encompass areas below 3,000 feet in elevation. You’ll find beautiful foliage throughout many of the mountain towns around the Smokies including Sylva and Franklin. Make a trip to Cataloochee Valley to see the majestic elk roaming the pastures to graze in the evening. As with any wildlife experience, keep a safe distance from the elk. You can also find elk at O conaluftee Visitors Center near Cherokee.

End of season autumn hues

Once November rolls around, you’ll find fall color creeping below 2,000 feet in elevation. This is the time to visit areas like Chatuge Lake in Haysville and Fire Creek Falls near Murphy. In Dillsboro, climb aboard the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and get a scenic tour of fall color.

In Cherokee take a quick out and back hike to Mingo Falls, offering a stunning 120-high foot waterfall.

Happy leaf peeping!

Maggie Valley Exploration Guide – Top Things to Do

Located on the eastern edge of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Maggie Valley is a short drive to the gorgeous Cataloochee Valley section of the park and the quaint town of Waynesville, North Carolina. The area offers beautiful views, outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, family activities, old time music, and small town charm. Pick a few experiences below to make your visit one to remember.

Things to do in Maggie Valley

The stretch of U.S. Route 19 that passes through the small town of Maggie Valley offers access to charming accommodations, live entertainment venues, skiing and tubing, a museum, and a brewery. Along this route you’ll also find access to the most photographed scenic lookout in the mountains as well as access to the beautiful Soco Falls.

Motorcycling Through the Smoky Mountains

One of the popular ways to experience this region of the North Carolina Smokies is by motorcycle. Spend the day on a scenic drive through the mountains. Smoky Mountain Steel Horses offers a selection of motorcycles to rent plus resources on beautiful rides through Maggie Valley. Ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Deal’s Gap, also known as “The Dragon.”

After your ride, swing by The Wheels of Time Museum to see a collection of rare American vintage motorcycles. It also includes other memorabilia, artifacts, and classic cars to peruse.

Grab Your Partner

Maggie Valley Stompin' Ground — Stompin’ Ground

The sounds of the Smoky Mountains are rooted in old-time mountain music. Listen to the bluegrass and old-time fiddle tunes at the Stompin’ Ground and watch as folks dance the mountain two-step, square-dance, and clog on the large dance floor. Get in on the action as audience participation in line dances is encouraged. They’ll guide you through the steps!

Mountain music is a big part of the music scene in Maggie Valley, but the musical influence is also international. Folkmoot USA brings musicians from around the globe to perform traditional song and dance. This year-round celebration boasts a diverse selection of exhibits, cultural programs, and fun for all ages. Then every July, the famous festival showcases global talent with events all around Maggie Valley, and nearby Waynesville.

Great Places to Dine

There’s no shortage of good eats and places for libations in Maggie Valley. Barbeque fans will enjoy Fat Buddies Ribs and BBQ of Waynesville along with the legacy of their famous Firehouse sauce. For those who enjoy old-fashioned ice cream in a warm waffle corn, make time in your plans for a stop by Jack the Dipper in Waynesville.

Elevated Mountain Distilling Co. brings traditional whiskey spirits to the area but also offers full bar with beer and wine options as well.

Shopping in the Smokies

Maggie Valley offers independent and locally owned shops, specialty boutiques, antiques, and handmade crafts. For those looking for local goods head to Downtown Waynesville for a plethora of art galleries, wonderful people, and unique shopping experiences like Mast General Store.

During the holidays, a trip to Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm is fun for the whole family. Besides charming cabin accommodations, visitors can pick out a famous Frazier Fir to bring home some mountain holiday cheer!

Outdoor Exploration in Cataloochee Valley

A popular spot for outdoor adventure is Cataloochee Valley. Here you’ll find multiple hiking trails to explore like the popular Boogerman Trail, Rough Fork Trail, and Pretty Hollow Gap Trail. While exploring the Valley you’ll also find multiple historic home-sites, churches, and a barn open to the public for self-guided tours.

See the Elk

The biggest attraction to the Cataloochee Valley is the ability to watch free-range elk grazing in the fields. They typically travel in a herd through the large open fields to graze in the morning and late afternoon. They are accustomed to people hanging out in the fields so you won’t have any trouble finding them. As with any wildlife encounter, be sure to watch them from a safe distance. They are not contained behind a fence and they will become aggressive if they feel threatened. Respect their space and you shouldn’t have a problem.

Trout Fishing

Cataloochee Creek is home to wild rainbow and brook trout, making it a haven for fly-fishing. There are multiple tributary creeks you can fish so while it’s a popular place to fish, it’s not difficult to find a peaceful spot out of sight from other anglers. You must have as state license and follow the fishing regulations.

There are like horseback riding, skiing, tubing, hiking to natural attractions such as Soco Falls or the popular Elk Tours and Firefly tours through Cataloochee Valley Tours, Inc.

Horseback Riding on the Mountaintop

Take in the panoramic beauty of the Smoky Mountains on horseback. At the Cataloochee Guest Ranch sign up for a ridge top tour that winds through forest trails, rhododendron tunnels, and creeks. Once you’re done riding take part in the many other activities the Ranch offers including tennis, swimming, daily hayrides, cookouts, bonfires, and lawn games.

Places to Stay in and Around Maggie Valley

Most photographed view in Maggie Valley.

With all the great adventures in the area, there are diverse accommodation options to make anyone feel at home.

For stunning and unique rooms, the historic Andon-Reid Inn Bed and Breakfast in Waynesville provides cozy accommodations and is close to many attractions.

The Cataloochee Guest Ranch has a diverse range of accommodations from inn style rooms to large group cabins along with many onsite activities such as horseback riding.

Named the #1 “top Resort in the South” by Conde Nast, The Swag, a luxurious all-inclusive mountain resort provides a great location to celebrate an anniversary or other special weekend away.

Most folks come to western North Carolina in hopes of seeing a few bears. However, if you stay at in a cabin at Buffalo Creek Vacations, chances are you will catch a glimpse of Buffalo while you enjoy your stay. You can even rent a refurbished caboose train car for your accommodations.

Maggie Valley Country Cabins has a plethora of cabins to accommodate small or larger groups surrounded by beautiful mountain views.

Best Western Smoky Mountain Inn provides traditional and comfortable hotel accommodations in Waynesville.

Nestled in the heart of Maggie Valley, the quaint Hearth & Home Inn offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to attractions.

Within walking distance of Waynesville, the Oak Park Inn has modern accommodations with old-fashioned charm.

Exploring Cherokee, NC – Things To See & Do.

Home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Cherokee, North Carolina, offers visitors a wide breadth of experiences. It’s a small town in the Great Smoky Mountains that is big on outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Here you can taste local cuisine (read: fry bread), learn the rich history of the tribe, shop for unique handmade crafts and jewelry, or try your luck at Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino.

Best Cultural Experiences in Cherokee

Many know about the dark history of the Trail of Tears, but that’s only part of the tribe’s rich history. The entire story is one of resilience, and to truly appreciate the extent of that you should visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Here you’ll follow the tribe’s journey from the days of hunter-gatherers, to the first chief to visit England as a delegate in 1699, to the displacement from native lands, and through modern days.

Another fantastic cultural show not to be missed is Unto These Hills. This drama is performed in an outdoor theatre and tells the story of who the Cherokee people were, who they are, and how things came to be.

Handmade Cherokee Arts and Crafts

Take home a beautiful piece of fine art from many of the best Cherokee artists across the Qualla Boundary. The Native American Craft Shop sells limited edition giclée prints, beautiful traditional and contemporary baskets, pottery and other works created by Cherokee and other Native American crafters. Showcasing the works of over 250 members, Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual preserves and promotes the traditional arts and crafts of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, and offers a vast selection of baskets, pottery, wood and stone carving, and beadwork. Traditional Hands Native American jewelry and Art Gallery features exclusively General Grant’s handmade Cherokee jewelry as part of a wide variety of high-quality Native American jewelry & art.

Explore the Smoky Mountains Surrounding Cherokee

A haven for outdoor adventurers, Cherokee offers visitors the perfect base camp for exploration. Hundreds of hiking trails dot the landscape, including some with beautiful waterfalls like Soco Falls and Mingo Falls. Choose your own adventure or let a professional guide from The American Wild Trekking Company lead the way on a guided tours throughout the Smoky Mountains.

The Oconaluftee River runs right through downtown Cherokee and offers a perfect spot to find rainbow trout on a fly-fishing adventures. Stop by Rivers Edge Outfitters to learn about their guided fly-fishing tours. The river is also a great spot for riding a tube. Book a trip with Smoky Mountain Tube and Raft to enjoy a lazy ride in a serene setting.

Another way to enjoy the mountains include on horseback. The folks at Smokemont Riding Stables offer a safe, family-friendly horseback riding experience through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Their tours are perfect for beginners and more experiences riders, and their trails feature beautiful wooded scenery, native plants, streams, and waterfalls.

You can also take in the mountain scenery from a championship golf course. The Sequoyah National Golf Club is open to the public and offers golfers an idyllic 18-hole journey, filled with panoramic vistas and beautiful landscapes.

Cherokee Nightlife

The best place to go for a fun evening in Cherokee is Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino. Play the slots or table games, see one of huge nationally-touring bands on the main stage, or head over to Ultra Star Multi-tainment Center, located inside the casino. This bowling, billiard and arcade center is perfect for family members too young for the casino floor.

With so much to see and do in the region, you’ll need a few days to explore everything. Check out our Cherokee guide to find local accommodations and campground information.

Special Alert: Nantahala River Closures No Longer in Effect

UPDATE: The Nantahala River has been re-opened to the general public. After a week long process, the US Forest Service has taken the steps needed to clear and repair the damage done after multiple mudslides impacted the region.

What happened to the Nantahala River?

Saturday, August 24, 2019 – Significant rainfall created multiple mudslides in the Nantahala Gorge area. Both the river and the road became inaccessible. Thankfully, no one was injured.

Monday, August 26, 2019 – Road access to the area was restored. Impacts to the river were significant and the US Forest Service suspended all river access permits until crews could remove debris, which included entire trees, boles, root wads, and other organic and inorganic material.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019 – Forest service contractors made significant progress on Quarry Rapid, and began work removing a tree dam.

Saturday, August 31, 2019 – Clean up the Nantahala River continues, and water is flowing, albeit a bit muddier than usual. Emergency closures are still in effect, as it remains unsafe for recreation.

Wednesday, September 4, 2019 – The clean up is complete and the Nantahala River is back open for everyone to enjoy.

What areas of the Nantahala River are closed for public use?

UPDATE: The emergency closure order issued by the US Forest Service has been lifted. It is safe to enjoy recreational and commercial use of the Nantahala River.

Areas impacted by the closure were between the Beechertown Launch Ramp and the Silvermine Takeout Ramp on U.S. 19 on National Forest System lands within the jurisdiction of the USDA Forest Service. The prohibition included the entire Ferebee Memorial Site.

What can visitors to the Nantahala Gorge access?

There are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities available in the region. Here are updates for attractions that access the Nantahala River.

Brookside Campground: Located a few miles away, they were not impacted by the mudslide. They are now able to provide trips down the Nantahala River.

Carolina Outfitters: Nantahala trips are now available as are trips down the Ocoee River.

Nantahala Outdoor Center: Pre-purchased tickets for rafting trips will be honored as business has now resumed. Their zip lines, hiking and biking trails, local paddling destinations, train trips, lodging, riverside restaurant and retail shops are also open for visitors.

Rolling Thunder: Nantahala River trips are no longer suspended.Ocoee and Toccoa River experiences are also available.

Wildwater Rafting: Rafting trips are available on all rivers including the Nantahala, Pigeon, and Ocoee. Their yurts, zipline and Jeep tours are available as well.