The Top 20 Attractions in Cherokee National Forest
There are plenty of places to see and visit in Cherokee National Forest. Whether you love hiking or cycling, Cherokee National Forest is a region where 20
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
Last updated: November 13, 2025
Benton Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Enjoy this 65 foot tall water fall away from the crowds and cars tucked away in a forest of Tennessee. There are several spots to stand to view the falls; …
Tip by
Round Bald
Highlight • Summit
Round Bald is a 5,826-foot bump along Grassy Ridge within the Roan Highlands. It's barely over a kilometer from the car, so it sees a lot of crowds and picture-enthusiasts. …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Bridge over Laurel Fork
Highlight • Bridge
This bridge crosses over the Laurel Fork waterway, which gets pretty full in the spring and summer months. You actually have to cross the water a handful of times between here and Laurel Falls.
Tip by
Tip Top (Buffalo Mountain Highpoint)
Highlight • Summit
Buffalo Mountain Park is home to a variety of different trails and visitors. It can be agreed, though, that the highlight of the park is the highpoint of Buffalo Mountain. …
Tip by
Turn for Jones Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
You'll have to stray a few hundred feet off the main path on a spur trail to get to the main waterfall viewing area. Elk Falls is the most well-known …
Tip by
Pinnacle Mountain Fire Tower
Highlight • Monument
Make your way to the top of the mountain to gain access to a fire tower overlooking the nearby areas. The trail up to the top gets a little rougher …
Tip by
Beauty Spot Bald
Highlight • Viewpoint
Park at the highway and continue up towards one of the most beautiful balds on the Appalachian Trail. The view point ends on a large, grassy bald with a multitude …
Tip by
Bald River Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
There are many spectacular spots to stand on the road/bridge here to view the waterfalls. Depending on the time of year, there might even be side streams coming from different …
Tip by
Unaka High School
Highlight • Parking
Unaka High School is a good reference point if you are riding up Stony Creek Road from Elizabethon. You can't miss it. It is a large high school right off …
Tip by
Trailside Seats
Highlight • Rest Area
Enjoy a break from your hike by taking a seat on the side of the trail. There is an obvious switchback in this section with man-placed rocks that serve as a great place for a rest or a snack.
Tip by
Upper Bald River Wilderness
Highlight • Forest
A remote and rugged area in the Cherokee National Forest, Upper Bald River Wilderness offers dense forests, rocky ridges, and the rushing waters of the Bald River. Ideal for backcountry …
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Cherokee National Forest.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Other adventures in Cherokee National Forest
Most popular routes in Cherokee National Forest
Most popular attractions in Cherokee National Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures around London and beyond.
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
Great Smoky Mountains National ParkSevier CountyDavidson CountyHamilton CountyKnox CountyShelby CountyBlount CountyMorgan CountyCarter CountyMarion CountyRutherford CountyVan Buren CountyMonroe CountyScott CountyWilliamson CountyWashington CountyPolk CountyPutnam CountySullivan CountyDickson CountyCocke County
Get ready to conquer new peaks
Sign up for Free