Southern Mountains

Cherokee Sites In NC

First-time visitors to Cherokee, NC should not miss the true beauty of what the Indians called the “land of the blue mist,” or what is known today as the Great Smoky Mountains.  Cherokee offers a variety of attractions that explore everything from the tribal culture of the Cherokee, to the area’s natural scenic beauty, which is second to none.

Cherokee Culture

• The Museum of the Cherokee Indian – A holographic “conjure man” will take you on a trip deep into the culture. You will go back 10,000 years to a time before written history to learn about the lives of the “Principal People.”
• Oconaluftee Indian Village – This re-created 1750s village on a quiet, rhododendron-covered mountainside, only is a few hundred feet from downtown. This is the best place to hear tribal stories and get your first glimpse of Cherokee crafts like mask carving, basket weaving and pottery making.
• The Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual – Examples of some of the best in Cherokee art can be seen and purchased. You’ll see the work of carver Davey Arch, whose masks are inspired by Cherokee legends, and the pottery of North Carolina Folk Heritage Award winner Amanda Swimmer.
• “Unto These Hills” – A must-see for summer visitors, this outdoor drama chronicles the forced removal of the Cherokee from their mountain home to Oklahoma.

Natural Beauty

• The Qualla Boundary – A large tract on the Oconaluftee River, is the main home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribe. Qualla, the Cherokee word for “old woman,” was so named for an old woman that lived here. It is gorgeous country that borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• The Oconaluftee and Raven Fork Rivers, as well as the cold and clear streams that feed them, are prime fishing waters. Fishing guides can take you to the best spots., An aggressive tribal stocking program in more than 30 miles of streams makes finding rainbow, brown and brook trout a simple pursuit.
• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park – One of the last primeval American forests. Most people believe it is in Tennessee because the park office is there, but the bulk of the preserve is in North Carolina.  And, the best views are here, too. Drive down Highway 441 for some awe-inspiring views, like those of Newfound Gap.

added: December 12, 2008

updated: December 23, 2008