Graham County is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Experience thrilling class IV and V rapids on the Cheoah River, mountain biking in the Tsali Recreation Area, and the iconic Appalachian Trail. For a more relaxed adventure, enjoy backcountry trout fishing, miles of hiking trails, and peaceful lakes like Santeetlah, Fontana, and Cheoah. Whether you’re seeking a lake day, scenic drive, epic thru-hike, or a quiet creekside picnic, Graham County has it all!
Day 1
Morning
Start your day with breakfast and a peaceful sunrise yoga session at Snowbird Mountain Lodge. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive across the Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway, soaking in stunning mountain vistas along the way. Finish the morning with hikes to Hooper Bald and Huckleberry Knob, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch at Lynn’s Place, then explore Wehrloom Honey for local honey, mead, honey sodas, and handcrafted bath products. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest to see some of the largest trees on the East Coast, or opt for a short but rewarding hike to Yellow Creek Falls along the picturesque waterfront.
Evening
Savor dinner by the river at Tapoco Lodge, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, wrap up your night with a movie at the charming Historic Tin Can Theater, or unwind with a classic old fashioned at the Laurel Lounge.
Day 2
Morning
Head to Fontana Village for breakfast at Hazel’s, where you’ll enjoy views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Afterward, hike across Fontana Dam and up to the Shuckstack firetower for stunning vistas of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Stecoah Valley Center, and if you’re lucky, time your visit to coincide with one of their annual festivals, like the Stecoah Harvest Festival. It’s a true local treat, featuring live music, artisans, crafters, and hands-on demonstrations.
Evening
Close the weekend by watching the sunset aboard Miss Hazel during an evening history tour on Fontana Lake. Afterward, rest for the night at one of the area’s unique accommodations, whether it’s a historic lodge, cozy cabin, yurt, Conestoga wagon, waterfront RV resort, treehouse, or geodesic dome—there’s something for every traveler!
Local Tip!
Even the nightlife takes you outdoors here. Enjoy stargazing under dark skies and marvel at the twinkling fireflies. The region’s commitment to dark sky preservation makes these after-sunset experiences unforgettable.
