5 Things to Do at Cherokee National Forest This Fall

There are 15 different recreational zones to explore in Cherokee National Forest. Whether you’re looking for mountains to hike, campgrounds to enjoy, or lakes to fish in, there’s an activity to keep you busy this fall.

1. Go Camping

Fall is a great time to go camping in Cherokee National Forest. It’s not too hot, and the changing leaves are a wonderful sight to see. The Dennis Cove Recreation area is a perfect place to go if you’re looking for a truly rustic experience. It’s a secluded campground right beside Laurel Fork Creek. There’s a picnic area to enjoy your meals, and a lush forest surrounds the whole campground. Another great area for camping in the park is Indian Boundary Recreation Area. The area has over 87 campsites with access to lampposts, electrical outlets, picnic tables, fire pits, drinking water, toilets, and showers. This is the best place ever for families or those that want to enjoy nature while still having a few amenities.

2. Rent a Boat

There are a few options for boat rentals around the park, but the best spot is at Watauga Lake. Enjoy a day of boating and fishing, and if the weather is still warm enough, enjoy some swimming, too. Watauga Lake is 16 miles long and has over 110 miles of coastline to explore. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to take around the lake. It’s a fun way to explore the area, enjoy the fall sunshine, as well as do some exercise.

3. Go Hiking

One of the most popular activities in Cherokee National Forest is hiking the different trails. There are over 600 miles worth of trails that are automobile-free in the park. Cherokee National Forest also encompasses 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail, a popular option during the summer and fall. Choose from dozens of short walks or opt for a multiday hike through the park. Just be sure to come well prepared with plenty of water, food, and camping equipment.

4. Try Rock Climbing

There are so many great places to try rock climbing around Cherokee National Park, and the cool weather of autumn is a great time to give it a go. If you’re new to rock climbing, be sure to go with a guide. If you’re more experienced, you can opt to rent equipment in the park or bring your own. A few popular rock climbing spots in Cherokee National Forest are Backbone Rock, Blue Hole, and Starr Mountain. Always climb with a partner. Turn it into a social weekend and head to one of the many campsites throughout the park.

5. Bird-Watching

The Cherokee National Forest is home to over 260 species of unique birds that come from both the south and the north. Fall is the perfect time for bird-watching as they migrate to warmer weather. Look for species like the Red-breasted Nuthatch, Veery, Winter Wren, Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Blue-headed Vireo, Chestnut-sided Warbler, and Dark-eyed Junco. There are three popular birding routes in the Forest, the 30-mile Unaka Mountain Wildlife Viewing Loop, Roan Mountain, and the Tellico Wildlife Viewing Loop near the south end of the forest.

There are so many reasons to visit Cherokee National Forest in the fall. There are activities, trails, wildlife, and historical sights to see that are sure to keep you busy all season long.

Image Via Pixabay

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