For lovers of nature, arts, and history, Cherokee County is a wonderland. With paddling and hiking opportunities, craft shops and classes, and a historic rail bike tour like none other, North Carolina’s westernmost county is a haven for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature and the rich heritage of traditional crafts.
Andrew Chastain photograph by Andrew Chastain
“What I appreciate about Cherokee County is the genuineness and the generosity of the people. I think you’d find that in all kinds of places, but in southern Appalachia, I think it’s a little different,” local angler and photographer Andrew Chastain says. “And I think the views go without saying. Then you have the lakes and the mountains and the woods. All of those things are great.”
From the long-range views at Panther Top Lookout Tower and the wooded paths of the Piney Knob Trail System to the unique arts and crafts available at Olive’s Porch and the Murphy Art Center, beauty abounds here. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil paddle, a challenging hike, or a chance to practice a new craft, Cherokee County has an experience waiting for you.
In Cherokee County, the Appalachian Mountains provide more than just a backdrop. They’re an invitation—to adventure on trails and waterways, or to slow down and savor the views. Here, excitement and relaxation combine into one unforgettable getaway.
In 1925, Olive Dame Campbell founded the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown to her husband. The school offers classes in both traditional and contemporary arts, crafts, music, dance, and other skills blended with Appalachian traditions. Take a week-long or weekend class, walk the trails through the woods or along a stream, shop handmade goods in the Craft Shop, or stop by the History Center to see traditional instruments, wood carvings, and baskets woven by Cherokee women.
About 10 minutes away, the folk school’s satellite location Olive’s Porch provides an extension of their offerings in the heart of downtown Murphy. The shop was opened in 2022 to make the folk school’s offerings more accessible to the community. Olive’s Porch sells crafts and craft supplies — like woodcarving and embroidery kits — and offers day-long workshops on skills such as basket-making, printmaking, and cooking.
The folk school’s centennial celebration will kick off the weekend of October 4, 2025, with the Fall Festival featuring music and dance, vendors selling handmade goods, and barbecue smoked in the dining hall. There will also be demonstrations of traditional Appalachian crafts such as wood turning, blacksmithing, and fiber arts.
With a gallery, regular workshops, and the center of the monthly First Friday Art Walk, Murphy Art Center is a creative hub in the heart of downtown. Photography courtesy of Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority
At the Murphy Art Center — a co-op where artists volunteer their time in exchange for gallery space — shop the wares of around 50 local artists. The nonprofit works to expose the public to the arts and offers affordable art classes for both children and adults. Peruse photography prints of nature by Kimberly Packard, woodworks by Garrett Gallus, and stained glass by Jim Allsopp. Check out watercolors by Sheryl Bessette, quilts by Elaine McKee Filos, and baskets made from pine needles by Lisa Cull. Or take a class in clay, weaving, painting, acrylics, or watercolor. The organization even offers scholarships for those with financial need.
Step inside the MAC to explore its gallery of works by local artists. Photography courtesy of Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority
The MAC, as locals call it, also hosts the First Friday Art Walk from May to December. Artists set up tents to sell their creations, and folks can enjoy live music, food vendors, and wine. “It’s a cool experience,” Chastain says. “You will experience art, photography, live music, food, and lots of laughing and conversations.”
While walking around downtown Murphy, keep an eye out for the photographs of artwork on buildings around town as part of Murphy Art Xplosion. Judges decide which artists to include each year, then the photographs are sold the following year to raise money for the organization.
Cruise past scenic landscapes on the Andrews Valley Rail Tour. Photography courtesy of Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority
Pedal your way through forests and fields and along lush mountainsides in an electric-assisted railbike on the historic Andrews Valley railroad. (Those who are mobility-impaired or who simply don’t want to pedal can ride the passenger cart.) The railroad was built in the 1850s to bring transportation to the area, which formerly was only accessible by wagon roads.
The rail tour leaves from the Andrews Train Depot and traverses 4.8 miles, crossing over the Valley River and other smaller creeks. During the warmer months, you’ll see flame azaleas, rhododendrons, and mountain laurels; come fall, changing foliage blankets the valley. Also look for barns, hay bales, and cows. The terminus of the route is the 300-foot-long Valley River Tunnel, which was hand-dug in the 1890s. Here, the tour stops for half an hour for riders to explore the tunnel and the river or enjoy a picnic. The journey back is all downhill, so sit back, relax, and let gravity do the work.
For a close-to-town hike, follow the four-mile Murphy River Walk along the Valley River and Hiwassee River. Photography courtesy of Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority
Hiking opportunities abound in Cherokee County. The Piney Knob Trail System in Murphy offers more than 22 miles of multiuse trails in the 714-acre Marble Creek Watershed. Pass a small waterfall just off of the parking area and cross over a footbridge to arrive at the trail map.
The wooded paths are lined with rhododendrons, ferns, and moss-covered boulders, and mountain laurel reach their branches across the trails.
On the other side of Murphy, hike a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail in Nantahala National Forest to reach the Panther Top Lookout Tower. Wildflowers grow along the wide, sunny path, and hikers can see distant mountains through the trees. At the fire tower, you’ll see panoramic views of mountains and Persimmon Lake in the valley below. “At the top, it’s a beautiful view,” Chastain says. “It’s beautiful for sunrises. Sunsets are good there, too. You can see the whole town of Murphy and a lot of Cherokee County from there.”
Go with the flow as you paddle in the Valley River. Photography courtesy of Cherokee County Tourism Development Authority
Kayaking or paddle boarding on the Valley River is a peaceful and scenic experience. This gentle tributary to the Hiwassee River offers calm waters ideal for a relaxing outing. You can put in at various access points, including the Payne Street Boat Ramp in Murphy, to embark on a leisurely trip surrounded by the area’s natural beauty.
This calm stretch of water is ideal for beginners or those seeking a tranquil escape to enjoy the quiet of the outdoors. As you paddle, look for local wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey, and black bears among the sycamore, hickory, pine, and tulip poplar trees that line the banks.
Traveling along the slow-moving current, paddlers can unwind and connect with nature at a gentle pace.
As the temperatures shift and the leaves turn vibrant, make your own plans to see the beauty that abounds in this mountain destination. Click here to start planning your trip.
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