Outdoor Things to Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying the weekend, there’s plenty of outdoor things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina.

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Cherokee, North Carolina is about a two hour drive from Chattanooga, making a great day trip to get away to the bigger mountains. Or, stay for a weekend to really enjoy the area and see all that there is to explore the outdoors in scenic Cherokee, North Carolina. This area is rich with Cherokee history and fantastic views, hikes, and waterfalls. Keep reading to learn how to plan for your visit to Cherokee, North Carolina.

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Things to Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

If you’re opting to take just a day trip, pick just 3-4 items from the sections below. If you’re ready for a longer, weekend getaway, choose 2-3 additional items to add to your list. These are the must-see items in Cherokee, North Carolina so you can be sure to fit as many highlights in as possible. There’s plenty to choose from, so pick things to do that suit you.

If you want an itinerary put together for you, you’ll find my weekend itinerary near the bottom of this blog post. This doesn’t include everything, but it’s what we chose to do on our most recent trip to Cherokee, North Carolina.

Parks in Cherokee, North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Did you know that Cherokee backs right up to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? This side of the park features great things to do, such as seeing elk graze in the field or climbing to the highest point in Tennessee. The elk can often be found just outside the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center. And if you time it right, they may even stop you in your tracks. These elk are highly protected and have their own crossing guards! If you want to see them, I suggest parking at the visitor center to see them in the field. But keep your distance. Let these beautiful and large animals enjoy their space please.

Clingman’s Dome is an hour drive up into the park from Cherokee. If the sky is clear, I recommend the visit. The half mile, uphill hike will be a little tough, but the views at the top make it worthwhile. Learn more about Clingman’s Dome, catching the sunrise and sunset here, or camping nearby, in my Smokemont Blog Post.

Please note that there is a $5 daily parking fee for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which can be purchased at the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center in Cherokee, North Carolina. There’s also more to do in this park that’s right beside Cherokee. Keep reading to learn more about these activities below.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Did you know that the Blue Ridge Parkway technically ends in Cherokee, North Carolina? This is the place to enjoy a scenic drive, take in the mountain-top views, and maybe find a hike or two. If you want to stay a little while and see what all the Blue Ridge Parkway has to offer on this end, check out my Southern End of the Blue Ridge Parkway Blog Post. And if you want to make a fuller trip and hike and camp along the parkway, check out my other Blue Ridge Parkway Blog Posts.

Oconaluftee Island Park

This is arguably one of the key places that sets Cherokee apart. The Oconaluftee Island Park is a small island you can walk to via bridges and easy walking trails throughout the park. The shallow, clear, and wide Oconaluftee River flows through creating the island and beauty of this spot. I highly recommend planning to eat a picnic here at one of the many picnic table pavilions with the sound of the river around you as you eat. This place is so pristine and peaceful.

History in Cherokee, North Carolina

I personally have not visited any of these places yet, but I believe they are worth a visit if you are curious about the history of this area and the Cherokee People.

Museum of the Cherokee People

The Museum of the Cherokee People is one of the oldest tribal museums that is still open in the country. It depicts the history of the Cherokee People as well as their culture and language through various types of exhibits. The mission is to keep the Cherokee heritage alive and educate others on the history and culture of the Cherokee People, native to this area.

Qualla Arts and Crafts

You’ll find locally handcrafted items at the Qualla Arts and Crafts. Keeping the Cherokee arts alive and well is the purpose of this establishment. This store supports over 350 artisans who work diligently to preserve the techniques and artistry of the Cherokee People. There’s unique art items like sculptures and jewelry that you’ll find nowhere else and more practical items like baskets and quilts. No matter what you’re looking for, this is the place to check out and grab a souvenir or two.

“Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama

“Unto These Hills” is a stage show that shares the story of the Cherokee People from the beginning when Spanish explorers found them to later years when the unfortunate removal of Native Americans that happened in the mid 1800s. The performance is displayed artistically, and despite the sad circumstances that are part of the Cherokee story, hope and a brighter future is also portrayed. This show has been shared for over 70 years. It is called an outdoor drama because it is performed in the outdoor amphitheater in Cherokee, NC. 

Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill

The Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center also features the Mountain Farm Museum. This is a collection of old, log buildings that have been relocated here from around the Smoky Mountains. Here you can explore what living in this area might have been like in that era. Mingus Mill is an old grist mill that is located just up the road from the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center. It is a working demonstration of how cornmeal was made using the power of water. Be sure to check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website to ensure that these places are open before you go.

Camping in Cherokee, North Carolina

If you want to stay and camp in the Cherokee area, I highly recommend Smokemont Campground. I’ve camped here before and nothing beats the experience. Our site was right beside the creek which lulled us to sleep. And being so close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and other Cherokee attractions makes this campground perfect for an overnight or weekend getaway in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Waterfalls in Cherokee, North Carolina

Mingo Falls

Mingo Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls. The hike seems daunting, but it’s short and I promise it’s worth it. To see the waterfall, you have to climb over 160 steps, but after that, the trail evens out and it doesn’t take long to get to Mingo Falls. There’s plenty of parking and a porta potty to use if you need it. Be sure to visit during the rainier seasons for a better flowing waterfall. However, I believe Mingo Falls is beautiful whether it’s heavy flowing or not.

Soco Falls

Soco Falls is also a short hike to reach. However, this one is more daunting. The trail down to the double waterfall is eroding away and requires careful footing and possible crawling down to the base. If this sounds like it’s too much for you, I still recommend visiting and just hiking to the overlook platform. This is an easy and short hike where you can see the waterfalls from above. But if you’re up to it, the view from the base of the falls is worth the trouble.

Learn more details about both of these waterfalls, how to get there, where to park, and more in my Mingo and Soco Falls Blog Post.

Adventurous Fun in Cherokee, North Carolina

I personally have not tried any of these activities yet, but from what I can tell, people really do enjoy these fun things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Oconaluftee River Tubing

In the warmer months, you can enjoy river tubing on Oconaluftee River in Cherokee. There are two different vendors to choose from, Cherokee Rapids River Tubing and Smoky Mountain Tube & Raft. Both offer tube rentals from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. And both companies also provide a shuttle service to get you in and out of the river as seamlessly as possible. The Oconaluftee River is so beautiful and clear, just inviting you to jump into its cool waters on a hot, summer day. 

Fire Mountain Biking or Hiking

Fire Mountain is right in Cherokee with over 10 miles of trail designed for one of the best mountain biking experiences in the area. There are both multi-use trails and single-use trails within the park to suit your needs. If you want to enjoy some adventurous mountain biking, this place has you covered. Or if you just want to explore on foot, you can hike here too. There’s plenty to see from the mountain views on these trails.

Smokemont Horseback Riding

Smokemont Riding Stables offers various horse riding attractions. There’s horseback riding through the scenic mountains with river crossings or a waterfall sighting. Or you can opt for a horse-drawn wagon ride. No matter which you choose, when horses are involved, it’s bound to be an adventure for sure.

Catch Sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway

There’s a few overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway that make for a perfect sunset vantage point. The Thomas Divide Overlook is just 15 minutes from Cherokee. The Thunder Struck Ridge Overlook is just 25 minutes from Cherokee. Both overlooks offer spectacular views of the horizon. Plus, the Blue Ridge Parkway in general is one of the best scenic drives in the area.

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My Weekend in Cherokee, North Carolina Itinerary

Here’s what I chose to do on our short, weekend trip to Cherokee, North Carolina this spring. Note, we had stayed overnight and the following is what we did during the next day since we were already there.

Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center

We started the morning off hoping to see some elk, however there were none this time. I’ve visited this area 4 times now and this was the first time there were none here. So your chances are high for seeing them. We just had bad timing this time. Remember, these are animals that are free to roam the park, so they are not caged or on a strict schedule. Also, be sure to respect any wildlife you may see. Keep your distance so they can remain happy and you can remain safe.

Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill

Next, I had hoped to visit the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill that’s just up the road from there. However, we were running late from the start so we didn’t actually get out to see the sights here. Mingus Mill was closed for rehabilitation, which is why it’s important to always check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website prior to make sure everything you want to do is open. These things are still on my list to check out next time we visit.

Mingo Falls

It was then time for Mingo Falls. It’s a short, scenic drive alongside the Oconaluftee River to reach the parking area for this waterfall. We spent about an hour here between the hike, enjoying the beauty of the falls, and taking photos.

Oconaluftee Islands Park 

I wish we had packed a lunch because on the way back from Mingo Falls, you will pass by the Oconaluftee Islands Park. This is a great place to enjoy a picnic and explore the walking trails around the park. These are easy, fairly flat trails beside the Oconaluftee River, so the walking is relaxing and peaceful.

Soco Falls

After lunch, it’s time to head to Soco Falls. Note, it’s much easier to park here heading in from Cherokee on U.S. Hwy 19 than heading towards it from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Because this is the side of the road the pull-off is for it. Keep your eyes open for the spot because it’s just a small, gravel area with ample parking on the side of U.S. Hwy 19.

Scenic Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway

From here, you can hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway headed north. Personally, I don’t recommend the section between Cherokee and this access because it’s lower elevation and the overlooks aren’t the greatest. But when you head north from this access, you’ll find the elevation gains drastically and the overlooks are breathtaking. We drove to Waterrock Knob to enjoy the views and turned around to head back into Cherokee. If you have the time though, I would recommend driving further to see Woodfin Cascades and maybe hike at Waterrock Knob too.

Sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway

I had hopes of catching the sunset at one of the overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway. But we needed to head back to Chattanooga for the night, and after our adventurous weekend, we were too tired to stay much later. So we skipped the sunset opportunity. However, if you’re willing to be up late or you’re staying the night in Cherokee, I highly recommend adding this to your list.

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Conclusion

There’s a lot of things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina, it’s impossible to do everything in just a day. But you can definitely do a lot in one day and if you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Chattanooga, Cherokee isn’t too far and is worth the trip. Let me know in the comments below, have you visited Cherokee, NC? If so, what was your favorite part? I’m looking forward to visiting again and trying some of the activities we missed out on.

And if you’d like to see the video of our one-day adventure in Cherokee, you can watch it here on YouTube.

Until next time, enjoy exploring Chatt!

More Day Trips to explore outside of Chattanooga:

• Scenic lake state park, a waterfall, and more in Crossville, TN
• Waterfalls, views, and more in Bryson City, NC
• See all the sights in one day at Fall Creek Falls

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