The Charles Hall Museum exists to preserve regional and Appalachian history with an emphasis on the Tellico Plains area. Born in Tellico Plains in 1924, Charles has been a local historian since boyhood. Among the first white settlers in the area, his mother’s family settled in Tellico Plains by 1830. His father’s family settled in the area by 1908 and moved within the city limits in 1929. Charles served Tellico Plains as mayor for 31 years, as alderman-recorder for two years, as Justice of the Peace for six years, and as a county commissioner for six years. Showcased in two Museum buildings are his magnificent collections of historical memorabilia, artifacts, equipment, guns, antique telephones, coins and currency, photos, and so much more. Along with his collections, the Museum has acquired many public donations since opening in 2003. There are currently over 6000 artifacts and thousands of historical pictures and documents either displayed or archived for future reference. Tellico Plains is a special place with a rich heritage and limitless possibilities.
Tellico Hatchery was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), between 1930 and 1941. It included six 25-foot circular pools and for many years was known as the Pheasant Branch Rearing Pools, because its water supply came from Pheasant Branch. Linear raceways and earthen pools, with a water source from nearby Sycamore Creek, were added in the 1940’s. More raceways were added in the 1960’s along with a water intake on Tellico River. The facility underwent major renovation in 1991-1992 and now has 28 main outdoor concrete raceways, one C-Series raceway, six concrete circular pools (not in use), a hatchery building, and two residences. Tellico Hatchery is actually a trout rearing facility (9-in. rainbow trout from Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery are transported to Tellico where they are then reared to a larger stocking size). A brook trout hatchery building was constructed in 1991 on one of the original circular pools. Southern-strain brook trout were hatched and reared at the facility for about three years as part of ongoing brook trout restoration projects in the Tellico area. The brook trout facility is still functional but no longer in use. The facility’s current water supply comes mainly from the Tellico River, Sycamore Creek, and to a lesser extent, Pheasant Branch. Unlike other Region IV trout hatcheries (Buffalo Springs and Erwin), which have spring-fed water sources with constant year-round temperature, Tellico Hatchery water temperatures can vary from as low as 32º F in winter to 72º F in the summer. As a result, trout growth is generally very limited during mid-November through late February.
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is part of the Nantahala National Forest, approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, NC, near Robbinsville as a living memorial to the writer/poet Joyce Kilmer. Veterans of the Foreign Wars asked the government to set aside a fitting stand of trees to serve as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action during World War I. Although Kilmer was both a soldier and a poet, he is most remembered for his poetry about common, beautiful things in nature
One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States, the area is administered by the U. S. Forest Service. The memorial is a rare example of old growth cove hardwood forest, a diverse type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. In 1975 the memorial forest was joined with a much larger tract of the Nantahala National Forest to become part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness.
Due to a devastating disease of the American chestnut tree that caused a rapid, widespread die-off of the once plentiful tree from its historic range in the Eastern United States, the American chestnut, once the dominant tree of the forest, was affected by the chestnut blight. Although the last of the Kilmer chestnuts had probably died by the late 1930s, their wood is so rot-resistant that remnants of the massive logs and stumps are still visible.
Another more recent loss is that of the giant hemlocks due to an infestation of an exotic insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid. For safety of visitors from a falling limb or tree, Forest Service managers decided to bring down dead trees near the memorial trail in a way they believed would mimic natural blowdown. In November 2010, the Forest Service blew up the trees with explosives, making the lower loop trail much lighter and drier.
The best way to enjoy the impressive memorial forest is by doing the easy 2-mile hike to see the majestic Trees such as Sycamore, Beech, Basswood, Red and White Oaks and Hemlock. Some of the trees are over 400 years old and the oldest Yellow-Poplars are more than 20 ft (6.1 m) in circumference and stand 100 ft (30 m) tall. Aside from the trees there are also other variety of shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses and other plants to see. This popular family hiking destination features an easy two-mile, figure-eight trail and has two loops: the 1-1/4 miles lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper ¾ mile loop swings through Poplar Cove, a grove of the largest trees.
The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Popular Cove – a grove of the forest’s largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
Located about 15 miles from Robbinsville. Take Highway 129 North for 1½ miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 4 miles to a stop sign/T intersection. Turn right and drive for approx 7.3 miles and bear to the right at the junction of Santeetlah Gap and the Cherohala Skyway. Continue for another 2½ miles to the entrance of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on your left.
Nelson’s Nantahala Hideaway is nestled in the heart of the Nantahala forest at Topton, NC. Fidely Nelson settled our family here in the late 1800’s and we invite you to experience true Southern Appalachian hospitality at our campground and cabins surrounded by hiking, trout fishing, whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking, bicycling, horseback riding and more. After an exciting stay in the Nantahala gorge… enjoy rustic living and spend a relaxing evening around your own private campfire. Walk in the footsteps of the great Cherokee Chiefs and discover “what Fidely did” in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains.
Perched on the banks of a peaceful, mountain creek, Creekside Paradise is the perfect basecamp to all your adventures. Whether you’re a hiker, biker, or casual explorer, we look forward to welcoming you to our corner of the mountains here in Western North Carolina. Come relax in the hot tub, nap by the creek, hike the many scenic trails, or simply cozy up with a cup of complimentary coffee by the campfire. However you define adventure, we welcome it!
DRAGON’S REST CABINS & LODGING Affordable cabins and vacation rental on Tallulah Creek. Located near the Cherohala Skyway, Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, and Moonshiner28. Only minutes from Robbinsville, North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains. Stay a day or a week and enjoy the southern hospitality !!
Choose on of our 6, large One Bedroom Cabins with private porch and full bath, or reserve the Creek House for a private creekside home with three bedrooms and two baths. All of our cabins include plenty of parking for extra vehicles and trailers, covered motorcycle parking, picnic pavilion with gas grills, game room, WiFi, and access to Tallulah Creek. Linens are provided with all of our rentals. All cabins are non-smoking.
Dragon’s Rest Cabin are located just 3 miles south of Robbinsville, North Carolina on US 129. Paved, level access from US129. Cabins have hard packed, level gravel driveway and parking areas.
Guests who stay at Fontana Village Resort see the world differently because they find inspiration in unexpected places. From mountain biking and hiking trails, to time spent out on the lake, our adventures and activities are united not by what makes them the same, but by the remarkable things that make them different. For those who crave fresh air, a quiet atmosphere, authenticity and destination immersion, Fontana Village is where you can explore the outside inside you amidst the best of the Smoky Mountains and all its natural beauty.
Stay in this tree-house type 200 sq ft one room glamping cabin nestled in the backwoods with private deck. Attached to back deck as we live here too. Make simple meals or add non vegan bfast (5 night max) for extra fee. Escape and unplug to our Appalachian “Eden”.The view doesn’t get any better than this! 2 mi from paved rd, all need 5″ clearance, 1.2 mi of uneven gravel/dirt with potholes. May be too rough for cycles but can park trailer 1 mi at neighbors. Use ONLY our directions!
The space
Get off the beaten path and adventure to the backwoods to enjoy this glamping cabin with private deck overlooking a wild brook trout stream. Our pretty creek brings plenty of white noise. Sufficiently furnished to make simple meals or treat yourself to breakfast. Unplug, reconnect with each other, and let the stress flow away in this unique decorated room. Imagine the sound of the creek lulling you to sleep and waking up in a tree-house like setting. A hot non vegan breakfast can be added for $10 per person per day. Advance notice required.
Guest access
The tiny house is a separate structure, not just an extra bedroom. It is connected to our back deck with access to a gas grill outside your door. Feel free to relax in the owner’s large screened porch with seating area and dining table overlooking Squally Creek, or have privacy on your own deck overlooking this beautiful trout stream.
Other things to note
We are 2 miles from a paved road, no cell, WiFi or texting. All vehicles need 5″ clearance due to 1.2 miles of uneven gravel/dirt road with shallow pot holes and bumps. May be too rough for motorcycles – suggest parking trailer 1 mile away at neighbors.
DIRECTIONS: We cannot stress enough to use ONLY our directions. If you don’t it WILL lead to a washed-out road.
GAS, RESTAURANTS, STORES: We are a half hour from gas, grocery store and restaurants. Robbinsville and Graham county have no packaged liquor stores.
ON SITE: fish for wild brook trout, wade in the refreshing creek, hike for miles up the road, bring outdoor gear, 4-wheelers or dirt bikes to ride the backwood roads right outside your door. Or just let nature re-energize your soul by listening to the creek, finish a book, or reconnect without your “devices” or star gaze.
CLOSE TO: “Tail of the Dragon/Deals Gap” (40 min) or “Cherohala Skyway” (20 min) on your bucket list? We are close to both! Our county has the best “twisties”. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (20 min), Santeetlah Lake (10 min), fish Snowbird Creek (20 min) and several others, Fontana Lake and dam (40 min), marinas for boat rentals (30 min), several waterfalls, hiking trails and overlooks, Stecoah Gap AT Trail and birding trail (40 min), Smoky Mountain National Park/Cades Cove entrance (2 hrs), Nantahala whitewater rafting (40 min), Cheoah rafting (30 min), Slingshot and motorcycle rentals (40 min), casinos (40 min), caves (2 hrs), and several artisan shops in the county. Tourist maps are provided.
UNPLUG: No cell or WiFi at cabin. (Verizon is local carrier in town and WiFi provided at McDonalds.)
You are coming to the backwoods which has a hunting season using hunting dogs. Our woods have wild animals, venomous and non venomous snakes-avoid and do not provoke.Occasional chainsaw and 4-wheelers may be heard.
Two Bedrooms, one bath beautiful Lake Nantahala lakefront cabin with all the extras. Queen Bed in Master, Twin Bunk Bed in Second Bedroom. Full Kitchen and Living Area with electric fireplace. Spacious porch. Beautiful outdoor covered Hot Tub, Grill, Outdoor Fire Pit and Private Dock. Enjoy a large private deck with plenty of space.
Beautiful mountain area, with all the needed conveniences at your fingertips.
Enjoy the facilities of Lakes End to include Café & Grill, Boat Rentals and Marina, Adventure Store, Volleyball, Horse Shoes and more. Free WiFi and local phone, and satellite Television in the living area.
In The Great Smoky Mountains Near Robbinsville, North Carolina
The Inn, our dream, is a true log home bed and breakfast. Sitting on top of a knoll overlooking the Stecoah Gap. The 360 degree views are breathtaking. Less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail. Rooms are filled with primitive antique furniture along with several pieces faithfully hand-crafted by the innkeepers themselves. The pavilion is a great spot to host weddings.
The Cabins in the Woods is a gorgeous property nestled above Stecoah Valley just off NC-28. With some of the most spectacular scenery in Western North Carolina, we are situated in the center of all the outdoor activities you could want. The views are fantastic, and the laid back atmosphere makes your cares float away on a gentle mountain breeze.
Nantahala River Lodge, a unique riverfront, pet friendly cabin near Bryson City. Our 3 bedroom cabin by the river offers the best in Nantahala Lodging and is perfect for Families, Friends and Fishermen.
We custom designed and built our Nantahala River Lodge with reclaimed wood from our family’s North Carolina cabins and barn. Native stone was used inside and out. We furnished our home with handcrafted furniture and transformed family heirlooms into art. Every detail was carefully considered as we blended our family history into the creation of the Nantahala River Lodge. The Lodge offers accommodations for up to 8 people. Every room offers a view of the river. We encourage you to open the windows to bring the soothing river sounds indoors.
Looking for a vacation that’s a little different, a little more, a little better than your last one? That’s why we’re here. At Sky Ridge, we strive to give our guests a place where they can relax and reconnect with themselves and with nature without giving up the comforts of home.
Perched high atop a mountainous ridge line with a view that will take your breath away, you’ll find seven well-appointed yurts ready and waiting for you and your friends and family to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a completely new and changing way. You just might not want to leave.
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The good times are guaranteed when you explore the area around the Quality Inn® in Andrews. Our hotel sits minutes from Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. You’ll have all the comforts you’re after at our hotel but you won’t have to spend too much to get them. After all, we know you want to save your money for the fun that’s ahead.
Adults on their own or with the kids along for the trip will want to get up early to get out the door to the nearby attractions. But our free hot breakfast provides a perfect reason to stay in the hotel for at least a short time longer. Then put the energy from our famous waffles to work to spur you on throughout your day. Try white water rafting or zip lining. Or for the truly adventurous, drive the nearby Tail of the Dragon, one of America’s craziest roads thanks to its 318 turns over 11 miles. Not up for it? We understand.
There are plenty of other options in our corner of North Carolina. For those with an adventurous palate, plenty of wineries are waiting. Find your new favorite wine at Calaboose Cellars or Ferncrest Winery. Beer lovers will want to head straight to Hoppy Trout Brewery (and your kids will love the brick oven pizza).
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains of Bryson City, NC, Nantahala Village Resort is the ideal North Carolina vacation and Cabin Rental destination – perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, weddings, and group events. Choose from a variety of lodging options including well-appointed Lodge rooms, mountain suites, and cozy rental cabins. We offer complimentary bagged breakfast including a granola bar, muffin, apple, bottle of water and a juice carton. Call Nantahala Village Resort for details. Should you wish to explore this beautiful Smoky Mountain area, there are whitewater rafting outfitters, zip-lines, miles of hiking and biking trails, premier trout streams, The Smoky Mountain Railroad, Bryson City shopping and Bryson City dining just minutes away. Or test your engines on the Tail of the Dragon, Cherohala Skyway or many other nearby scenic mountain roads. Visit the towns of Bryson City and Cherokee for authentic handcrafts, dining and historic experiences.
Nantahala Village Resort was established in 1948, when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was new and a visit to the western North Carolina Mountains was a true retreat from the world. Now over 60 years later, Nantahala Village Resort continues to provide an opportunity for family and group getaways. With our variety of lodging choices, full service restaurant, indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, swimming pools, game room, fitness center and horseback riding the Village caters to individuals and groups.
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is part of the Nantahala National Forest, approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, NC, near Robbinsville as a living memorial to the writer/poet Joyce Kilmer. Veterans of the Foreign Wars asked the government to set aside a fitting stand of trees to serve as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action during World War I. Although Kilmer was both a soldier and a poet, he is most remembered for his poetry about common, beautiful things in nature
One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States, the area is administered by the U. S. Forest Service. The memorial is a rare example of old growth cove hardwood forest, a diverse type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. In 1975 the memorial forest was joined with a much larger tract of the Nantahala National Forest to become part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness.
Due to a devastating disease of the American chestnut tree that caused a rapid, widespread die-off of the once plentiful tree from its historic range in the Eastern United States, the American chestnut, once the dominant tree of the forest, was affected by the chestnut blight. Although the last of the Kilmer chestnuts had probably died by the late 1930s, their wood is so rot-resistant that remnants of the massive logs and stumps are still visible.
Another more recent loss is that of the giant hemlocks due to an infestation of an exotic insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid. For safety of visitors from a falling limb or tree, Forest Service managers decided to bring down dead trees near the memorial trail in a way they believed would mimic natural blowdown. In November 2010, the Forest Service blew up the trees with explosives, making the lower loop trail much lighter and drier.
The best way to enjoy the impressive memorial forest is by doing the easy 2-mile hike to see the majestic Trees such as Sycamore, Beech, Basswood, Red and White Oaks and Hemlock. Some of the trees are over 400 years old and the oldest Yellow-Poplars are more than 20 ft (6.1 m) in circumference and stand 100 ft (30 m) tall. Aside from the trees there are also other variety of shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses and other plants to see. This popular family hiking destination features an easy two-mile, figure-eight trail and has two loops: the 1-1/4 miles lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper ¾ mile loop swings through Poplar Cove, a grove of the largest trees.
The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Popular Cove – a grove of the forest’s largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
Located about 15 miles from Robbinsville. Take Highway 129 North for 1½ miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 4 miles to a stop sign/T intersection. Turn right and drive for approx 7.3 miles and bear to the right at the junction of Santeetlah Gap and the Cherohala Skyway. Continue for another 2½ miles to the entrance of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on your left.
