Safety and Outdoor Ethics
The Cherokee National Forest is home to an abundance of creatures. We hope you enjoy your adventure for personal discovery, conservation, or recreation. One of the best ways to ensure your next visit is another enjoyable adventure is to practice Leave no Trace.
The 7 Leave No Trace Principles
Principle 1: Plan Ahead and Prepare - assistance might be limited to personal rescue in remote forest areas. Plan ahead and let others know when you plan to report in. Most importantly, give them instructions of what you expect them to do if you don't report in.
Principle 2: Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces - there is a saying "once a great campsite, always a great campsite." That means, if you've found a special place to camp odds are high, others have found the same location a suitable campsite. Repeated uses of vulnerable soils and terrain can degrade conditions quickly. Chose campsites that can withstand repeated use.
Principle 3: Dispose of Waste Properly - help us all enjoy this place now and tomorrow by properly disposing of waste.
Principle 4: Leave what you Find - The Cherokee National Forest has a rich history that aligns with that of our nation. You may encounter cultural artifacts during your visit. Please enjoy the personal discovery but leave artifacts where you find them. Removing artifacts from National Forest property is illegal (16 U.S. Code § 470ee). The US Forest Service manages your public lands through conservation. Some timber, non timber, and minerals are available for purchase by permit. Inquire in the corresponding district office.
Principle 5: Minimize Campfire Impacts- Most fires on the Cherokee National Forest are human caused. Unattended and abandoned campfires are two of the most common wildfire starts on the Cherokee National Forest.
Principle 6: Respect Wildlife -Most animals you will encounter on the Cherokee National Forest are harmless. Venomous snakes and some apex predators do live on the Cherokee National Forest. Observe wildlife from a distance.
Dangerous insects:
The most dangerous insect encountered on the Cherokee National Forest is the mosquito. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves, and dress appropriately.
Dangerous arachnids:
Ticks are common on the Cherokee National Forest and pose a serious health risk. Ticks can be found most months but are far more common April - October. Wear appropriate clothing and treat clothing with a tick deterrent.
Dangerous reptiles:
Snakes have an important part in preserving the ecosystem. Observe them but leave them alone. Most are harmless.
The Cherokee National Forest is home to venomous and non-venomous snakes.
Venomous:
Copperheads are among the most common observed venomous snake found on the Cherokee National Forest.
Rattlesnakes are also well established on the Cherokee National Forest.
Most venomous snake bites are to the extremities. Never attempt to handle any venomous snake.
Non-Venomous:
The most common snake encountered on the Cherokee National Forest is the Black Rat Snake and Corn Snake.
Dangerous predators:
Black Bears are very common on the Cherokee National Forest. If you are visiting the Cherokee National Forest, you are in black bear habitat and you may encounter a black bear. Help keep bears alive. Feeding bears teaches bears to associate humans with food. Bears that become habituated to humans may be euthanized for human safety. A fed bear is a dead bear. Practice good food and trash discipline. NEVER APPROACH A BEAR.