Cherokee National Forest

Welcome to the Cherokee National Forest

The Cherokee National Forest is your destination for outdoor recreation. Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains, the pursuit of wildlife, the thrill of whitewater, a night under the stars, or solitude on a backcountry trail.

Begin planning your visit by selecting "Recreation" in the left menu.

Cherokee National Forest Vicinity Map

Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee, the Cherokee National Forest is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 650,000-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and adjoins other national forests in Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia.

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U.S. Forest Service - Cherokee National Forest

Features

Don't Move Firewood

Your Help is Needed: Here's one simple way to combine your desire to protect the environment with your plans to have a great time outdoors -- don't move firewood from ... see full article

Snorkeling in the Cherokee National Forest

Everyone is welcome to visit the Cherokee National Forest to enjoy the clear, clean waters and view the abundant aquatic animals. Individuals and non-commercial groups may go to any stream to snorkel. Groups wanting an organized snorkeling experience led by knowledgeable guides with lifeguards present should contact the Forest.

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Spotlights

Cherokee Hotshots

The Cherokee Hotshots are a highly trained Type One Wildland Fire Suppression crew that is hosted by the Cherokee National Forest in East Tennessee.

Motor Vehicle Use Map

The Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the Cherokee NF are available free of charge at USDA Forest Service offices in Cleveland, Greeneville, Benton, and Tellico Plains, and Unicoi, TN