The Best Outdoor Things to Do near Tellico Plains, TN

Nantahala National Forest & Cherokee National Forest

Together, these neighboring national forests create an enormous outdoor playground spanning the mountains of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina.

Things to Do

• Hiking: Cherokee National Forest contains more than 700 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes. Nantahala National Forest adds hundreds of miles of trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail.
• Waterfalls: Look for scenic waterfalls throughout both forests, many of which can be reached by hiking trails or viewed from nearby roads.
• Fishing: Mountain streams and rivers provide opportunities to fish for trout and other species, making the forests popular with anglers.
• Picnicking: Developed recreation areas provide places to spend more time outdoors, while picnic areas offer an easy way to enjoy the mountain scenery.
• Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for deer, black bears, birds, and other Appalachian wildlife as you explore.
• Scenic drives: Forest roads and designated scenic routes provide another way to experience the mountains when you'd rather enjoy the scenery from behind the wheel.

Bald River Falls & Green Cove Trout Fishing

The Bald River corridor combines one of the area's most impressive waterfalls with excellent access to the waterways that make this part of the Cherokee National Forest popular with anglers.

Things to Do

• See Bald River Falls: This impressive waterfall is easily accessible from the road, making it a great stop for visitors who want to enjoy mountain scenery without committing to a long hike.
• Fish for trout: The Tellico River is a renowned trout-fishing destination, while nearby Green Cove Pond offers stocked rainbow trout.
• Try Green Cove Pond: The Green Cove Pond features a new floating fishing pier, expanded accessible sidewalk and parking, an accessible picnic area, and an extended trail around the water.
• Enjoy a picnic: Bring lunch and take advantage of designated areas around the forest and Green Cove Pond for a relaxing break between outdoor activities.

Cherohala Skyway

The Cherohala Skyway turns a simple drive into a sightseeing adventure, climbing through the mountains between Tellico Plains and Robbinsville, North Carolina.

Things to Do

• Take the scenic drive: The 43-mile National Scenic Byway crosses high-elevation mountain terrain and offers sweeping views of the surrounding Appalachian landscape.
• Stop at overlooks: Pull-offs along the route provide opportunities to photograph mountain valleys and distant ridgelines.
• Hike along the Skyway: Short trails lead to destinations including Huckleberry Knob and Hooper Bald, where higher elevations provide expansive views.
• Visit Falls Branch Falls: A short trail leads through old-growth forest to this 55-foot cascade.

Tail of the Dragon

For travelers who enjoy driving or riding as much as hiking, the legendary Tail of the Dragon offers an entirely different way to experience the mountains.

Things to Do

• Drive the Dragon: The route follows 11 miles of US 129 and features an extraordinary 318 curves, making it famous among sports-car drivers and motorcyclists.
• Take in the scenery: The road winds through the rugged landscape where the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest meet, with forested mountains surrounding the route.
• Stop at Deals Gap: The southern end of the Dragon at Deals Gap is a popular gathering point for motorists and riders.
• Combine it with other scenic roads: The Dragon can be incorporated into longer touring routes through eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina for an entire day of mountain driving.