Blog | Visit Cherokee NC

News & Insights

Here, you’ll find a collection of our posts covering various aspects of Cherokee’s rich history, culture, attractions, and events. From exploring the stunning landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains to delving into the fascinating heritage of the Cherokee people, our blogs will help you uncover the beauty, heritage, and charm of Cherokee, NC.

5 Scenic Overlooks Around Cherokee To Visit

Cherokee, NC is surrounded by natural beauty and spectacular views. Take in these 5 beautiful scenic overlooks on your next visit.

Activities | Events

Top 10 Things to Do in Cherokee This Spring

If you’ve never visited Cherokee before, spring is the perfect time to go. Whether you’re packing your bags for a day trip in and around town, exploring the outdoors for a weekend of fishing or golf, or bringing the whole family for a week filled with fun and discovery, there’s something for everyone. Here are ten of the best things to do in Cherokee this spring.

Wildlife

Elk Sightings in Cherokee: Tips for Glimpsing the “Great Big Deer”

In 2001, the National Park Service successfully reintroduced elk to the Cataloochee Valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making sightings possible today. To learn more about these beautiful and mighty creatures, we spoke to Caleb R. Hickman, PhD, Supervisory Fish and Wildlife Biologist for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Culture

The Warriors of AniKituhwa: Bringing Cherokee Dance and History to Life

If you’ve been to Cherokee, NC, you may have been lucky enough to catch a dance performance by the Warriors of AniKituhwa. The Warriors are all enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and are designated official cultural ambassadors.

Culture

What Does it Mean to be a Cherokee Beloved Woman?

Women of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are now making contributions in many new ways. Because roles have shifted, so, too, should the definitions of the titles we use to honor Cherokee women and men.

Outdoor

The Waterfalls of Cherokee, North Carolina

There is nothing more magical than the sights and sounds of waterfalls. Cherokee is home to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina, Mingo Falls and Soco Falls.

two people fishing in Cherokee with fishing gear

Fishing | Outdoor

An Insider’s Guide to Fishing in Cherokee

You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy fishing in Cherokee. Beginners love it for the same reason as the pros: the waters in Cherokee are heavily stocked with trout, including rainbow, brook, and brown varieties, as well as other kinds of fish. Read more for an insider guide on how to fish Cherokee.

closeup of fishermans hand holding a fish next to the net he is holding

Fishing | Outdoor

Ready to Fish Cherokee? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Every year people come from every state in the country, and from other countries, to fish Cherokee. Read on to learn everything you need to know to fish Cherokee, NC.

Image of hikers at Mingo Falls in Cherokee

Activities | Hiking | Outdoor

A Visitors Guide to Hiking in Cherokee, NC

To help you plan your next outdoor experience, we put together this guide of 15 hikes in or around Cherokee, NC.

An elk, America’s Historic Mammal, with a large set of antlers stands in the middle of a forest trail, surrounded by tall trees, in a tranquil woodland setting.

Outdoor | Wildlife

Elk Viewing 101: Your Guide to America’s Historic Mammal

Before you plan your next trip to Cherokee, North Carolina, read more to learn all about the beautiful, furry friends that graze the fields of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center!

Culture

Tattoos: A Language Beyond Communal Bounds

Before the development of the Cherokee written language, tattoos were used to identify one another in historic societies, and were especially prevalent among warriors, who had to earn their marks. We talked to Mike Crowe, one of the Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialists at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, to find out more about traditional tattoos and practices of the Eastern Band of Cherokee People