Graham County is an out of doors lover’s paradise. Expertise thrilling class IV and V rapids on the Cheoah River, mountain biking within the Tsali Recreation Space, and the enduring Appalachian Path. For a extra relaxed journey, get pleasure from backcountry trout fishing, miles of mountaineering trails, and peaceable lakes like Santeetlah, Fontana, and Cheoah. Whether or not you’re in search of a lake day, scenic drive, epic thru-hike, or a quiet creekside picnic, Graham County has all of it!
Day 1
Morning
Begin your day with breakfast and a peaceable dawn yoga session at Snowbird Mountain Lodge. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive throughout the Cherohala Skyway Nationwide Scenic Byway, soaking in gorgeous mountain vistas alongside the best way. End the morning with hikes to Hooper Bald and Huckleberry Knob, the place you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the encompassing mountains.
Afternoon
Take pleasure in lunch at Lynn’s Place, then discover Wehrloom Honey for native honey, mead, honey sodas, and handcrafted bathtub merchandise. Afterward, take a peaceable stroll by way of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest to see among the largest timber on the East Coast, or go for a brief however rewarding hike to Yellow Creek Falls alongside the picturesque waterfront.
Night
Savor dinner by the river at Tapoco Lodge, having fun with the peaceable environment. Afterward, wrap up your evening with a film on the charming Historic Tin Can Theater, or unwind with a traditional quaint on the Laurel Lounge.
Day 2
Morning
Head to Fontana Village for breakfast at Hazel’s, the place you’ll get pleasure from views of the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park. Afterward, hike throughout Fontana Dam and as much as the Shuckstack firetower for gorgeous vistas of Fontana Lake and the encompassing mountains.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Stecoah Valley Middle, and should you’re fortunate, time your go to to coincide with one among their annual festivals, just like the Stecoah Harvest Pageant. It’s a real native deal with, that includes dwell music, artisans, crafters, and hands-on demonstrations.
Night
Shut the weekend by watching the sundown aboard Miss Hazel throughout a night historical past tour on Fontana Lake. Afterward, relaxation for the evening at one of many space’s distinctive lodging, whether or not it’s a historic lodge, cozy cabin, yurt, Conestoga wagon, waterfront RV resort, treehouse, or geodesic dome—there’s one thing for each traveler!
Native Tip!
Even the nightlife takes you outside right here. Take pleasure in stargazing underneath darkish skies and marvel on the twinkling fireflies. The area’s dedication to darkish sky preservation makes these after-sunset experiences unforgettable.