Cherokee National Forest

Rhododendron in Bloom Appalachian Trail

Comment On This Article

Add to My Favorites

Introduction
Hiking in the Cherokee National Forest offers one of the best ways to experience the forest in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. The choices range from challenging hikes through rugged primitive areas to short walks along lakeshores. Nationally designated trails include the the Appalachian Trail, John Muir National Recreation Trail (19.9 miles), and Warrior's Passage Trail (8.1 miles). No permits and no check-in stations are required for the backcountry, although registration boxes are placed at certain trailheads.

Popular trails include Coker Creek Falls Trail, Turtletown Creek Trail, Benton Falls Trail, Bald River Falls Trail, and the Flats Mountain Trail, all in the southern districts.

The Ocoee Whitewater Center offers an easy one-mile River Walk around the Center by strolling across a one-of-a-kind 330-foot cable-stayed Legacy Bridge, which spans the breathtaking Ocoee River. Or, you can tackle the ten-mile bike and hiking trail system that offers a glimpse of history, education, and adventure.

The restored Old Copper Road Historic Trail meanders along the Ocoee River for 2.4 miles, where outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike the trail once used to haul copper ore from historic Ducktown to the trailhead in Cleveland, Tennessee. At Williams Creek, a Forest Service Archaeologist or local museum director will recreate the experiences of the Cherokee Indians, early settlers, and miners as you trek across a replica of an 1850s "double truss" bridge.

Hiking Trails
0-2 miles
4+ miles