Monroe, McMinn and Loudoun counties lie in the heart of the Cherohala Region. The word Cherohala comes from combining the names of Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. At one of the highest points in the Unicoi Mountains at 5,400 feet, the nearly 50-mile Cherohala Skyway crosses over into North Carolina.
Paralleling the Tellico River, the Skyway remains an ideal spot to enjoy the mountainous countryside, meander the trails, photograph the natural surroundings and picnic. After a stop at the Cherohala Skyway Visitors Center in Tellico Plains, begin the Skyway journey by veering off Forest Service Road 210 to view Bald River Falls. The pristine waterfall dramatically cascades more than 100 feet onto the rocks below. The more adventurous can take a trail to the top.
Take advantaqe of dozens of things to do and see in the Cherohala Region's small towns of Tellico Plains, Sweetwater, Madisonville, Coker Creek, Vonore and Athens--all within easy driving distance of each other. Dozens of antiques and arts and crafts shops are along the way.
Outdoor Activities for Boaters, Bird Watchers, Campers and Fishermen
Recreational activities abound. Often referred to as "Lakeway to the Smokies," Loudoun County boasts four lakes, two major rivers and numerous waterfront parks and marinas. Lake Tellico covers approximately 16,500 acres where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy boating, fishing, picnicking, bird watching, camping or kayaking on the Tellico River.
In Sweetwater, the Natural Landmark Lost Sea touts itself as "America's Largest Underground Lake," Wide, sloping walkways take visitors to the large rooms of the caverns. At the lake room, board a glass bottom boat for a fun and fascinating tour of the Lost Sea.
Nearby in Philadelphia, check out Sweetwater Valley Farm, a family tradition that makes farmstead cheddar cheese with names like Volunteer Jack and Tennessee Aged. See how the cheese is made and then bite into tasty samples.
Get the scoop on ice cream at Mayfield Dairy in Athens. Watch a presentation on Mayfield's history, and then take a plant tour that includes how popsicles come about. Naturally, indulge in a dip or two at the ice cream parlor.
The area is awash in Cherokee, Revolutionary times and Civil War history. Visit Fort Loudoun State Park, which is surrounded by Lake Tellico. Originally used from 1756-1760, this reconstructed British fort features a living history with reenactments and explanation of the French and Indian War.
Sequoyah-Creator of Cherokee Language
Sequoyah, son of Nathaniel Gist, a Virginia fur trader and Wut teh, daughter of a Cherokee chief, was born around 1776 in a log cabin in what is today Monroe County. Sequoyah-a silversmith, statesman and soldier-gave his people an enduring gift by creating the Cherokee writing system.
After working tirelessly on the new language for 12 years, Sequoyah introduced his syllabary in 1821, and within months thousands of Cherokees became literate. Not far from his birth site, the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore stands as a testament to the only man who perfected a system for reading and writing a language all by himself.
The Cherohala Region offers something for everyone-recreational activities, Tennessee history, scenic landscapes, unique shopping, relaxing getaways and quietude. Because of its sweeping corners and outstanding views, the Cherohala Skyway also appeals to motorcyclists and sportscar fans.
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