Things To Do
Lake Santeetlah
There are hiking trails around the lake and a public "beach" access, and beautiful fall color views!
Cherohala Skyway
60 mile scenic byway that has fantastic fall color views, overlooks, and hikes!
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
Multiple hiking trails, gorgeous fall colors, and majestic virgin timber forest with trees as old as 400 years old.
Fontana Dam & Visitor Center
The highest dam east of the Rockies, beautiful views and fall colors, hikes on the Appalachian Trail, visitors center, and ability to walk across the dam! There's also a resort nearby with restaurants, disc golf, outdoor pool, etc.
Tsali Recreation Area
Boating, hiking, fishing, camping, and biking are all available for this area.
Cheoah Dam
Huge dam that is a testament to the early 20th century engineering and a tourist attraction because The Fugitive (Harrison Ford) was filmed there.
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Outdoor center on the Nantahala River where you can buy all kinds of outdoor gear, memorabilia, raft, kayak, zipline, and hike! There are a couple of restaurants on the river, as well as good places to get local beer and wine.
Tail of the Dragon
318 curves in only 11 miles makes this road a definite tourist destination. When you look at it on a map, it resembles a dragon's tail and feels like you're riding on one too!
Wehrloom Honey
Local business that sells honey, beeswax crafts, mead, homemade sodas, and other gifts! There's also a honey taste room and mead taproom to explore and enjoy.
Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center
1929 historic rock schoolhouse that was converted to a history, art, and music center. They host music programs, old-time festivals, workshops, art galleries, and after school programs for the community. The art gallery is open for a majority of the year for you to explore and learn about Appalachian culture and traditions.
Hunting Boy Wood Carving
Local Cherokee artist (BJ Welch) makes clan masks, gourd masks, baskets, river cane flutes, knives, jewelry, and traditional Native American clothing. He is a nationally recognized artist, and his work is displayed around the country, including the Smithsonian Institute!