Mountain Cove

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers 520,000 acres of protected national forest, along with the 6,643 foot peak of Clingmans Dome (the highest elevation in Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park). On clear days, you can see over 100 miles of multi-layered mountain vistas from the observation deck at the summit of Clingmans Dome. During the fall, see the colorful foliage of nature's grand finale display while being in the Cataloochee Valley listening to the echoes of bull elk bugles calling for females and challenging other males for dominance! The opportunities for outdoor adventures are endless here.

Enjoy over 530,000 acres of protected national forest with mountain peaks over 5,800 feet for endless outdoor recreation! There are more than 600 miles of trail systems for horseback riders, off-road vehicles, mountain bikers, and especially hikers! In 15 short minutes, you arrive at the Appalachian Trailhead for your 2,000+ miles of infamous trail, connecting 14 states for the avid adventurer. Or, you can take a short day hike to Cheoah Bald!

Image from: www.visitnc.com

A mere 20 minutes from your community is the best whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, zip lining, trout fishing, and outdoor entertainment in the South! Surround yourself with the picturesque mountains, lakes, creeks, streams, and rivers throughout the Nantahala National Forest. Rated "One of the Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure, NOC has been the leader in the rafting industry since 1972. The Adventure Park allows you to soar more than 550' through the air on the Wesser Zip, the Nantahala Gorge's most fun zip line, and take on a multi-level rope challenge as high as 60' above the forest floor. Treetop Adventure Nets is a full netted enclosure for children to explore, climb, slide, and navigate through a series of tunnels, chutes, and pathways overlooking the river. There are endless opportunities for fun and adventure!