Cherokee National Forest is a massive 650,000-acre piece of land in Tennessee that is a nature lover’s paradise. There is so much to explore and so much to take in; you could spend years adventuring and taking in all the natural beauty around this forest! With high mountain peaks, waterfalls, and glistening lakes, plus an abundance of hiking trails, Cherokee National Forest will keep you busy for a long time. As you explore this amazing wilderness, we have a few suggestions for some of the best hikes in Cherokee National Forest.

Blue Hole Falls is a short and easy hike down to a majestic blue pool and a waterfall.
Blue Hole Falls, Elizabethton, TN 37643, USA
Devon Sipes/ Alltrails
This is a popular swimming hole in Tennessee -- and the waterfall makes it all the more beautiful. The easy accessibility makes it a great spot to take a quick dip in the water or simply stop and marvel at the 25-foot waterfall.
One of the best views in all of Tennessee can be found on Roan Mountain.
Roan Mountain, TN 37687, USA
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge
This ridge line has you hiking up with sweeping views of mountain ranges spanning far into Tennessee on one side and North Carolina on the other. The view is simply breathtaking. If you want to take in the sights with minimal effort, park at Carvers Gap and hike up the hill to the first bald. You will be greeted with incredible views all around you.
Margarette Falls is another place that is a must-see for anyone who loves waterfalls.
Margarette Falls Trailhead Parking Area, 1362 Shelton Mission Rd, Greeneville, TN 37743, USA
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge
This 60-foot waterfall cascades down a slanted jagged rock edge, making it a unique and interesting find in the Cherokee National Forest. The hiking trail leading to the falls is filled with beauty as well. Following a tranquil creek and exploring a lush deep forest can be just as beautiful as Margarette Falls.

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Martin Creek Falls is a moderate, two-mile trail near Erwin that leads to a beautiful split waterfall.
Evan Haun/ Alltrails
The water cascading down the rock in two streams makes this a unique and fun waterfall to view. The path is easy to follow, but the slope leading down to the falls can get very slippery at times. Take it slow and soon you arrive at an amazing waterfall!
Just like Roan Mountain, the Beauty Spot is a popular mountain top overlook into a vast mountain range.
Beauty Spot, Unnamed Road, Unicoi, TN 37692, USA
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge
Sitting on the North Carolina and Tennessee border, you will be able to soak in the sights for miles and miles. Drive up a dirt road leading to a small parking area, and you will then have a short walk up the hill to find The Beauty Spot.
Our last suggestion in the Cherokee National Forest is to take a trip to Watauga Lake.
Watauga Lake, Tennessee, USA
Courtesy of Sarah Dodge
This lake can be enjoyed in numerous ways: take to the waters for a boat ride, soak in the sun on the sandy shore, go swimming, or enjoy a picnic with your family. The lake itself is framed by the towering Cherokee Mountains and the glistening water dances in the sunlight. This spot is one of the most relaxing places in Tennessee.

If you are looking for hiking trails in Tennessee, chasing waterfalls, or want to sit by a peaceful lake, Cherokee National Forest has plenty to explore and offer. You can spend so much time adventuring in the mountains and taking in the views. It truly is filled with hidden gems and is a nature lover’s paradise. To further help make your adventure along some of the best hikes in Cherokee National Forest a success, be sure to check out AllTrails+ before you hit the trail. You’ll be able to access all sorts of helpful information and maps about each of the trails within the Forest. 

If you want to take a break from hiking, check out this nearby Tennessee antique store that’s filled with hundreds of treasures. 

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Cherokee National Forest

Katie Feldkamp | December 06, 2023

What are some things to do in Cherokee National Forest?

Going on a hike is certainly one way to access gorgeous views and natural wonders within Cherokee National Forest. If hiking really isn’t what you’re looking to do, there are fortunately plenty of scenic overlooks throughout the forest so that you don’t miss out on this beautiful landscape. So should you find yourself thinking of things to do in Cherokee National Forest, consider packing a camera, a few snacks, a full tank of gas, and stopping at places such as:

  • It’s just outside Cherokee National Forest, but you’ll want to greet a glowing sunrise at Oconaluftee Overlook
  • The Cherohala Skyway is actually a National Scenic Byway, meaning you can choose your own stops for a scenic overlook. Or just admire the view for the entire drive.

 

Where are some other hiking trails in Tennessee?

Obviously, some of the best hiking trails in Tennessee can be found in Cherokee National Forest. But there are also countless other trails throughout the state, many of which are great for people of all ages. The next time the entire family is ready to get moving, consider the following kid-friendly hikes in Tennessee:

  • Ozone Falls in the Ozone Falls State Natural Area near Crab Orchard
  • The Sugarland Valley Nature Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Cane Creek Falls and Suspension Bridge in Fall Creek Falls State Park

For more information on these and several more trails, check out this article on kid-friendly hikes in Tennessee.

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Cherokee National Forest, Elizabethton, TN 37312, USA