In The Great Smoky Mountains Near Robbinsville, North Carolina
The Inn, our dream, is a true log home bed and breakfast. Sitting on top of a knoll overlooking the Stecoah Gap. The 360 degree views are breathtaking. Less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail. Rooms are filled with primitive antique furniture along with several pieces faithfully hand-crafted by the innkeepers themselves. The pavilion is a great spot to host weddings.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape or an exciting outdoor adventure. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. We’re nestled along the shoreline of picturesque 2,800 acre Santeetlah Lake in the lush Nantahala National Forest. Blue Waters Mountain Lodge puts you in the heart of one of the nation’s most beautiful areas. Known for its natural splendor, activity filled outdoor lifestyle and deep serenity, this majestic setting offers a wealth of activities or the perfect backdrop to do nothing at all.
This unique combination of relaxation and action packed fun starts at the Lodge itself. Here you’ll find a game room complete with billiards, cards, darts, and a variety of indoor games. As well, there is croquet and horseshoes outdoors. For a quiet alternative, the Lodge offers a well-stocked reading library and plenty of decks. Enjoy outstanding lake and mountain views that invite you to settle in and relish the solitude.
The Cabins in the Woods is a gorgeous property nestled above Stecoah Valley just off NC-28. With some of the most spectacular scenery in Western North Carolina, we are situated in the center of all the outdoor activities you could want. The views are fantastic, and the laid back atmosphere makes your cares float away on a gentle mountain breeze.
Nantahala River Lodge, a unique riverfront, pet friendly cabin near Bryson City. Our 3 bedroom cabin by the river offers the best in Nantahala Lodging and is perfect for Families, Friends and Fishermen.
We custom designed and built our Nantahala River Lodge with reclaimed wood from our family’s North Carolina cabins and barn. Native stone was used inside and out. We furnished our home with handcrafted furniture and transformed family heirlooms into art. Every detail was carefully considered as we blended our family history into the creation of the Nantahala River Lodge. The Lodge offers accommodations for up to 8 people. Every room offers a view of the river. We encourage you to open the windows to bring the soothing river sounds indoors.
Fresh mountain air and wide open spaces make it easy to disconnect to reconnect. Retreat to the terrace rocking chairs, where the sounds of nature, the panoramic views of the Snowbird Mountains, and the southern breezes set the tone for a getaway like no other. TV’s are intentionally absent at Snowbird Mountain Lodge; it’s all part of the mountain retreat experience to free your mind and body of stress, and embrace nature’s elegance.
Sit in front of our massive stone fireplace, study our area’s rich cultural heritage, or partake in one of our specialty events such as birding or a wine dinner.
Have your first cup of coffee in our main lodge and our staff will guide you in tailoring your visit. We are here to cater to your relaxation, but will never impose on your privacy.
Many amazing adventures await you right outside our door. Explore Lake Santeetlah, hike secluded forest trails, and discover area waterfalls and rivers. For a slower paced activity, take a scenic drive along the Cherohala Skyway and Moonshiner 28 for stunning mountain vistas.
Hike our Snowbird Mountain Lodge trails without ever having to leave the property. Rest stops, picnic areas, and mountain views highlight two sets of trails. The Point Trail takes you to our Sunrise Deck, while the Santeetlah Trail traverses alongside our fire pit, tennis courts, and gardens, and ultimately arrives at the Sunset Deck.
Looking for a vacation that’s a little different, a little more, a little better than your last one? That’s why we’re here. At Sky Ridge, we strive to give our guests a place where they can relax and reconnect with themselves and with nature without giving up the comforts of home.
Perched high atop a mountainous ridge line with a view that will take your breath away, you’ll find seven well-appointed yurts ready and waiting for you and your friends and family to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a completely new and changing way. You just might not want to leave.
Complete end-to-end coverage of the Blue Ridge Parkway, north Georgia, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in a series of easy to fold pocket maps which show EVERY great ride in the mountains. I seek out the best two lane mountain back roads then show you the best ways and shortcuts to link them all together.
Stay on the best roads, see the best sights. We focus on ALL the good roads, not just the well known tourist routes. Of course you’ll find detailed coverage the famous named routes like the Dragon, The Blue Ridge Parkway, The Cherohala Skyway, etc., but you don’t have to ride a hundred miles on the highway to get to the next great road – we show you the good connecting roads so you can stay on the backroads and avoid the highways and towns and see the hidden sights most others miss.
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The good times are guaranteed when you explore the area around the Quality Inn® in Andrews. Our hotel sits minutes from Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. You’ll have all the comforts you’re after at our hotel but you won’t have to spend too much to get them. After all, we know you want to save your money for the fun that’s ahead.
Adults on their own or with the kids along for the trip will want to get up early to get out the door to the nearby attractions. But our free hot breakfast provides a perfect reason to stay in the hotel for at least a short time longer. Then put the energy from our famous waffles to work to spur you on throughout your day. Try white water rafting or zip lining. Or for the truly adventurous, drive the nearby Tail of the Dragon, one of America’s craziest roads thanks to its 318 turns over 11 miles. Not up for it? We understand.
There are plenty of other options in our corner of North Carolina. For those with an adventurous palate, plenty of wineries are waiting. Find your new favorite wine at Calaboose Cellars or Ferncrest Winery. Beer lovers will want to head straight to Hoppy Trout Brewery (and your kids will love the brick oven pizza).
All the comfort you need plus amenities you’ll love
By staying with us, you’re getting a comfortable stay plus plentiful amenities that add to a great value. You can fuel up for a day of hiking, watersports, or sightseeing with our free hot breakfast and free coffee. While you’re in the hotel, you’ll stay connected with our free WiFi. If you’re here on business, you can use our print station. Unwind by our bonfire pit.
When you’re ready to head back to your room, you can relax in front of the flat-screen TV. Enjoy in-room conveniences like coffee makers and refrigerators. All our rooms offer premium mattresses and linens plus plenty of fluffy pillows.
Whether you’re in Robbinsville on business, visiting friends and family, or just enjoying a mountain getaway, you’re sure to get your money’s worth. Located off Interstate 40 in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. The area’s natural beauty is everywhere around our hotel — you’ll love experiencing the picturesque sites nearby such as the Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, and Santeelah Lake.
Rivers Edge Treehouse Resort offers comfort and style, feel at one with the trees in an outdoor, “back to nature” setting.
Located on the Cheoah River near Robbinsville, North Carolina, this vacation experience is surrounded in all directions by scenery that would make a professional photographer envious.
We are excited for the chance to once again share the beautiful part of the North Carolina Smokies we call “home” with our guests. This year we will celebrate our 8th season and we look forward to greeting returning guests and meeting new friends who will be staying with us for the first time. To make your “river experience” more fun, we’ve added rock steps down to the Cheoah… easy access for any who want to cool off after a day of adventuring. Also new this year, “Grab and Go Lunches” from our favorite restaurant, The Willow Tree! Order your sack lunch ($11) or gourmet hiker’s pack for two (starting at $40) by 9pm the evening before and pick up Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays between 10am and noon at The Willow Tree. Full details and menus coming soon!
Centrally located in the middle of the Fontana Village Resort, the Wildwood Grill offers a warm and charming ambience, wonderful food, and friendly service. Whether you dine on the lively patio or settle into a cozy table inside, the Wildwood Grill delivers an unequaled mountain view with music, food, and great friends!
Join us for lunch or dinner. Stay close and relax after a casual meal near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The Grill is the front door to everything happening in Fontana Village Resort. The Wildwood Grill is open seasonally from Spring through Fall.
Gather your group for the daily recap and tell tales of disc golf wins, fish pulled from Fontana Lake, and the amazing sights of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Bring the amazing food of the Grill to your camping hotspot by calling for take-out.
Inside the Main Lodge, The Mountview Bistro at Fontana Village Resort boasts both great food and amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy a great meal in an elegant, relaxing, atmosphere while sharing stories of the day’s catch, wildlife seen on your hike, and the many other highlights of your Smoky Mountain vacation.
The Mountview Bistro offers a savory menu featuring the freshest local vegetables and meats, baked goods, and desserts plated to perfection. No matter your taste, the Mountview Bistro is the front row seat for every meal
Tapoco Tavern offers incredible outside dining experiences adjacent to the world famous Cheoah River. Indoor and private room options for groups also available.
Open Daily from 11 am to 8 pm
Perched on the banks of the world famous Cheoah River, Tapoco Tavern combines the very best of classic pizzeria and all American flavors with a view and environment unmatched in all of Western Carolina. Order up a wood stone oven pizza for the family or indulge in the house favorite, “Bloody Mary” from our full-service bar. From steaks, burgers, salads, and local Carolina Mountain trout, there’s something for everyone.
For years this place was known as “Tooties Cafe”, Stecoahs only resturant with some of the best food in Western NC. After years of great food and music entertainment, Tooties went out of buisness. A few years later the resturant was re-opened by three sisters known as Della Jordan, Kathy Cody and Teresa Carpenter and is now known as Stecoah Diner. Although Stecoah Diner does not have the music entertainment that Tooties had, it is still one of the best resturants to find great food in Western NC.
We are a local diner serving made from scratch dishes! With friendly service and a small town atmosphere! Be sure to stop in and see us
Discover really good food at Snowbird Mountain Lodge.
Innovative menus and enticing surroundings await you on the mountain.
Embrace The Nostalgia of Simpler Times
with a crackling fire in a historic lodge, walls lined with books, and a Mountain View beyond measure. Add in really good food with ingredients from farms and growers close by, sitting in classic rockers on the deck, or sipping your favorite cocktail while sharing laughter, and you have found Snowbird. A place where connection, intention, and nature are abundant and welcome you with open arms.
Seats are filling up fast! Make sure to get a reservation especially on the weekends! We have worked to package our meals in a way that lets you bring the quality of our meals into your home. We always love to see you in person, but even when we can’t we ensure that your dining experience is top notch!
From adding more balanced options to our Happy Meal®, to serving up fresh beef Quarter Pounder® burgers that are cooked when you order, we’re always finding ways to show our commitment to our customers and our food.
Fantastic little pineapple whip stand. Was a pleasant surprise to come across this after driving the Cherohala Skyway. The owner was very friendly and recommended the pineapple float which was awesome and refreshing! Lived the pieces of pineapple mixed in. Definitely a must stop if you are in the area.
“Experience a unique dinning experience
at Cafe de Olla”
Our family-owned and run business opened November 2019. Located at 810 Tallulah Road Robbinsville, NC, we serve Italian fare like pizza, pasta and calzones. We took our inspiration from classic Italian cuisine and added creative twist to deliver a menu that is innovative and inviting.
Experience Italian fare with a Mexican twist, featuring our Cafe de Olla, a traditional Mexican coffee using a traditional earthen clay pot to give special flavor to our coffee. It is made with ground coffee, cinnamon and “Pilloncillo” (raw dark sugar). Enjoy our deliciously sweet, cinnamon-infused coffee that will surely tickle your taste buds.
We are committed to provide highest food quality and use fresh Italian ingredients with reasonable rates.
Whether you are in the mood to indulge in something new of just want to enjoy classic Italian favorites, we promise to provide you a unique and pleasant dinning experience.
OPEN EVERYDAY FROM 11:00am to 4:00pm
FOOTLONG HOT DOGS, SANDWICHES AND BURGERS, SOUPS AND SALADS, PREMIUM SIDES
Enjoy a complimentary award winning country breakfast served in your own private room. Four decks with creek views for your enjoyment. Gas grill, campfire area, hot tub, hiking trails just to name a few of the amenities right out the front door. Private entrance, fridge and microwave and tv in each room. Jetted bathtub and outdoor hot tub.
Rivers Edge Treehouse Resort offers comfort and style, feel at one with the trees in an outdoor, “back to nature” setting.
Located on the Cheoah River near Robbinsville, North Carolina, this vacation experience is surrounded in all directions by scenery that would make a professional photographer envious.
We are excited for the chance to once again share the beautiful part of the North Carolina Smokies we call “home” with our guests. This year we will celebrate our 8th season and we look forward to greeting returning guests and meeting new friends who will be staying with us for the first time. To make your “river experience” more fun, we’ve added rock steps down to the Cheoah… easy access for any who want to cool off after a day of adventuring. Also new this year, “Grab and Go Lunches” from our favorite restaurant, The Willow Tree! Order your sack lunch ($11) or gourmet hiker’s pack for two (starting at $40) by 9pm the evening before and pick up Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays between 10am and noon at The Willow Tree. Full details and menus coming soon!
Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, fries
Stay in this tree-house type 200 sq ft one room glamping cabin nestled in the backwoods with private deck. Attached to back deck as we live here too. Make simple meals or add non vegan bfast (5 night max) for extra fee. Escape and unplug to our Appalachian “Eden”.The view doesn’t get any better than this! 2 mi from paved rd, all need 5″ clearance, 1.2 mi of uneven gravel/dirt with potholes. May be too rough for cycles but can park trailer 1 mi at neighbors. Use ONLY our directions!
The space
Get off the beaten path and adventure to the backwoods to enjoy this glamping cabin with private deck overlooking a wild brook trout stream. Our pretty creek brings plenty of white noise. Sufficiently furnished to make simple meals or treat yourself to breakfast. Unplug, reconnect with each other, and let the stress flow away in this unique decorated room. Imagine the sound of the creek lulling you to sleep and waking up in a tree-house like setting. A hot non vegan breakfast can be added for $10 per person per day. Advance notice required.
Guest access
The tiny house is a separate structure, not just an extra bedroom. It is connected to our back deck with access to a gas grill outside your door. Feel free to relax in the owner’s large screened porch with seating area and dining table overlooking Squally Creek, or have privacy on your own deck overlooking this beautiful trout stream.
Other things to note
We are 2 miles from a paved road, no cell, WiFi or texting. All vehicles need 5″ clearance due to 1.2 miles of uneven gravel/dirt road with shallow pot holes and bumps. May be too rough for motorcycles – suggest parking trailer 1 mile away at neighbors.
DIRECTIONS: We cannot stress enough to use ONLY our directions. If you don’t it WILL lead to a washed-out road.
GAS, RESTAURANTS, STORES: We are a half hour from gas, grocery store and restaurants. Robbinsville and Graham county have no packaged liquor stores.
ON SITE: fish for wild brook trout, wade in the refreshing creek, hike for miles up the road, bring outdoor gear, 4-wheelers or dirt bikes to ride the backwood roads right outside your door. Or just let nature re-energize your soul by listening to the creek, finish a book, or reconnect without your “devices” or star gaze.
CLOSE TO: “Tail of the Dragon/Deals Gap” (40 min) or “Cherohala Skyway” (20 min) on your bucket list? We are close to both! Our county has the best “twisties”. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (20 min), Santeetlah Lake (10 min), fish Snowbird Creek (20 min) and several others, Fontana Lake and dam (40 min), marinas for boat rentals (30 min), several waterfalls, hiking trails and overlooks, Stecoah Gap AT Trail and birding trail (40 min), Smoky Mountain National Park/Cades Cove entrance (2 hrs), Nantahala whitewater rafting (40 min), Cheoah rafting (30 min), Slingshot and motorcycle rentals (40 min), casinos (40 min), caves (2 hrs), and several artisan shops in the county. Tourist maps are provided.
UNPLUG: No cell or WiFi at cabin. (Verizon is local carrier in town and WiFi provided at McDonalds.)
You are coming to the backwoods which has a hunting season using hunting dogs. Our woods have wild animals, venomous and non venomous snakes-avoid and do not provoke.Occasional chainsaw and 4-wheelers may be heard.
Nantahala River Lodge, a unique riverfront, pet friendly cabin near Bryson City. Our 3 bedroom cabin by the river offers the best in Nantahala Lodging and is perfect for Families, Friends and Fishermen.
We custom designed and built our Nantahala River Lodge with reclaimed wood from our family’s North Carolina cabins and barn. Native stone was used inside and out. We furnished our home with handcrafted furniture and transformed family heirlooms into art. Every detail was carefully considered as we blended our family history into the creation of the Nantahala River Lodge. The Lodge offers accommodations for up to 8 people. Every room offers a view of the river. We encourage you to open the windows to bring the soothing river sounds indoors.
Our unique tiny house style cabins are perfect for family vacations, motorcycle tours, romantic getaways, and camping adventures. Cabin rates start at $38 per night. You can also choose to stay in our campground. We welcome tents, RVs, and campers. Escape to the mountains and enjoy our general store, concrete driveway, covered bike parking, WiFi, firewood, ice, and a clean, warm bathhouse. We are honored to offer a 15% military discount (ID required @ check-In).
Fill up before riding the Tail of the Dragon or the Cherohala Skyway
One of the most visited tourist attraction near Robbinsville, NC by road enthusiasts, nature photographers or anybody who is just seeking for a relaxing ride and nature-inspired adventures. Cherohala Skyway is known for its spectacular scenic overlooks, beautiful mountain views, world class hiking trails and pristine waterfalls. It was also featured in Discovery Channel’s Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in North America.
The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile (69 km) National Scenic Byway and National Forest Scenic Byway that connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina in the southeastern United States. Its name is a portmanteau of Cherokee and Nantahala, the two national forests through which it passes. Along with multiple vistas and overlooks, the skyway provides easy vehicular access to various protected and recreational areas of the Unicoi Mountains, including the Citico Creek Wilderness, the Bald River Gorge Wilderness and old growth trees in the interior of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.
Mile High Legend – 43 mile National Scenic Byway from Robbinsville NC to Tellico Plains TN
The Cherohala Skyway was completed in the fall of 1996 after planning and construction for some thirty-four years. It was North Carolina’s most expensive scenic highway carrying a price tag of $100,000,000. It winds up and over 5,400 foot mountains for 18 miles in North Carolina and descends another 23 miles into the deeply forested back country of Tennessee. The Skyway is well known in motorcycling and sports car circles for its long, sweeping corners and breathtaking scenic views.
It could be extremely dangerous at night and in the winter months. There are no facilities other than a couple of restrooms for the entire 41 miles so make sure you have enough gas to make the crossing. There are also picnic tables with mile-high views along the way that visitors can enjoy.
Vehicles can turn around at one of the overlooks or continue down the ridge in Tennessee. At the state line, the descent starts into the Tellico River basin. If continued into Tennessee, take a detour to Bald River Falls on paved Forest Service Road 210 to see the 100-ft. waterfall from the car (or motorcycle).
With over 5,000 Sunoco gas stations across the country, it’s easy to fill up close by.
Two Bedrooms, one bath beautiful Lake Nantahala lakefront cabin with all the extras. Queen Bed in Master, Twin Bunk Bed in Second Bedroom. Full Kitchen and Living Area with electric fireplace. Spacious porch. Beautiful outdoor covered Hot Tub, Grill, Outdoor Fire Pit and Private Dock. Enjoy a large private deck with plenty of space.
Beautiful mountain area, with all the needed conveniences at your fingertips.
Enjoy the facilities of Lakes End to include Café & Grill, Boat Rentals and Marina, Adventure Store, Volleyball, Horse Shoes and more. Free WiFi and local phone, and satellite Television in the living area.
This is a beautiful campground. The owners are helpful . It is the type of mountain setting you look for and it delivers with a creek, trees and a river.
Such a nice place to stay. Each site is next to the river or the creek that runs through the property. Looked like every site had shade as well. The family works hard to keep the place well maintained and clean.
At the risk of losing the benefits of having this campground nearly to ourselves, we feel compelled to give the new owners the highest accolades. They are extremely responsive and have really spiffed things up. The campground itself is quaint and lovely, with a good size creek running through it and bordering the Valley River on one side. It is easy access just off Hwy. 74 outside of Marble (between Murphy and Andrews).
We love this little gem of a campground!
The Gleanings Resort Luxury Suites and Cabins offer a special escape from the normal vacation retreats. The secluded Smoky Mountain location promises privacy in a natural mountain setting only a short distance from the quaint country town of Robbinsville, North Carolina. There are no crowds or busy 4-lanes and the air is crisp and fresh.
Our accommodation options include Private Luxury Suites that are available in the main resort building. The multi purpose Harvest House vacation home can rented by the room or entire house and is equipped for group retreats. And The Pasture vacation home is situated in it’s own private 4 acre retreat.
The Gleanings Resort is much like a lodge environment, sitting on a ridge in the mountains. Our quality accommodations will satisfy the most discriminating guests and our rates are a real value.
The grounds are immaculate with many places to enjoy nature. Views from the higher elevations of the main resort will inspire you. There is also a swimming pool and hot tub available for all guests.
The Perfect Mountain Cabin Getaway
Dreaming of a romantic getaway in a picture-perfect Smoky Mountain log cabin? That dream comes true at Cherokee Mountain Cabins — hand-crafted one, two and three-bedroom luxury cabin rentals near Nantahala Lake. Mountainside cabins. Creekside cabins. Rustic, romantic and elegant with no shortage of creature comforts —
- Romantic Gift Packages
- Concierge
- Massage
- Hot Tub
- Pool Table
- Outdoor Fireplace
- Gourmet Kitchen
When you stay in our cabins, you’re in the middle of Western North Carolina’s great outdoor playground with whitewater rafting, zip lining, horseback riding, hiking, boating, fishing, golfing, mountain biking and scenic drives all at your doorstep.
Just above Cherokee Mountain Cabins, the beautiful Nantahala Lake is the second highest lake east of the Mississippi. And below our cabins, the Nantahala River offers world-class trout fishing and one of the south’s most popular whitewater sports venues.
Discover really good food at Snowbird Mountain Lodge.
Innovative menus and enticing surroundings await you on the mountain.
Embrace The Nostalgia of Simpler Times
with a crackling fire in a historic lodge, walls lined with books, and a Mountain View beyond measure. Add in really good food with ingredients from farms and growers close by, sitting in classic rockers on the deck, or sipping your favorite cocktail while sharing laughter, and you have found Snowbird. A place where connection, intention, and nature are abundant and welcome you with open arms.
Fresh mountain air and wide open spaces make it easy to disconnect to reconnect. Retreat to the terrace rocking chairs, where the sounds of nature, the panoramic views of the Snowbird Mountains, and the southern breezes set the tone for a getaway like no other. TV’s are intentionally absent at Snowbird Mountain Lodge; it’s all part of the mountain retreat experience to free your mind and body of stress, and embrace nature’s elegance.
Sit in front of our massive stone fireplace, study our area’s rich cultural heritage, or partake in one of our specialty events such as birding or a wine dinner.
Have your first cup of coffee in our main lodge and our staff will guide you in tailoring your visit. We are here to cater to your relaxation, but will never impose on your privacy.
Many amazing adventures await you right outside our door. Explore Lake Santeetlah, hike secluded forest trails, and discover area waterfalls and rivers. For a slower paced activity, take a scenic drive along the Cherohala Skyway and Moonshiner 28 for stunning mountain vistas.
Hike our Snowbird Mountain Lodge trails without ever having to leave the property. Rest stops, picnic areas, and mountain views highlight two sets of trails. The Point Trail takes you to our Sunrise Deck, while the Santeetlah Trail traverses alongside our fire pit, tennis courts, and gardens, and ultimately arrives at the Sunset Deck.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape or an exciting outdoor adventure. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. We’re nestled along the shoreline of picturesque 2,800 acre Santeetlah Lake in the lush Nantahala National Forest. Blue Waters Mountain Lodge puts you in the heart of one of the nation’s most beautiful areas. Known for its natural splendor, activity filled outdoor lifestyle and deep serenity, this majestic setting offers a wealth of activities or the perfect backdrop to do nothing at all.
This unique combination of relaxation and action packed fun starts at the Lodge itself. Here you’ll find a game room complete with billiards, cards, darts, and a variety of indoor games. As well, there is croquet and horseshoes outdoors. For a quiet alternative, the Lodge offers a well-stocked reading library and plenty of decks. Enjoy outstanding lake and mountain views that invite you to settle in and relish the solitude.
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is part of the Nantahala National Forest, approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, NC, near Robbinsville as a living memorial to the writer/poet Joyce Kilmer. Veterans of the Foreign Wars asked the government to set aside a fitting stand of trees to serve as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action during World War I. Although Kilmer was both a soldier and a poet, he is most remembered for his poetry about common, beautiful things in nature
One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States, the area is administered by the U. S. Forest Service. The memorial is a rare example of old growth cove hardwood forest, a diverse type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. In 1975 the memorial forest was joined with a much larger tract of the Nantahala National Forest to become part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness.
Due to a devastating disease of the American chestnut tree that caused a rapid, widespread die-off of the once plentiful tree from its historic range in the Eastern United States, the American chestnut, once the dominant tree of the forest, was affected by the chestnut blight. Although the last of the Kilmer chestnuts had probably died by the late 1930s, their wood is so rot-resistant that remnants of the massive logs and stumps are still visible.
Another more recent loss is that of the giant hemlocks due to an infestation of an exotic insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid. For safety of visitors from a falling limb or tree, Forest Service managers decided to bring down dead trees near the memorial trail in a way they believed would mimic natural blowdown. In November 2010, the Forest Service blew up the trees with explosives, making the lower loop trail much lighter and drier.
The best way to enjoy the impressive memorial forest is by doing the easy 2-mile hike to see the majestic Trees such as Sycamore, Beech, Basswood, Red and White Oaks and Hemlock. Some of the trees are over 400 years old and the oldest Yellow-Poplars are more than 20 ft (6.1 m) in circumference and stand 100 ft (30 m) tall. Aside from the trees there are also other variety of shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses and other plants to see. This popular family hiking destination features an easy two-mile, figure-eight trail and has two loops: the 1-1/4 miles lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper ¾ mile loop swings through Poplar Cove, a grove of the largest trees.
The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Popular Cove – a grove of the forest’s largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
Located about 15 miles from Robbinsville. Take Highway 129 North for 1½ miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 4 miles to a stop sign/T intersection. Turn right and drive for approx 7.3 miles and bear to the right at the junction of Santeetlah Gap and the Cherohala Skyway. Continue for another 2½ miles to the entrance of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on your left.
In The Great Smoky Mountains Near Robbinsville, North Carolina
The Inn, our dream, is a true log home bed and breakfast. Sitting on top of a knoll overlooking the Stecoah Gap. The 360 degree views are breathtaking. Less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail. Rooms are filled with primitive antique furniture along with several pieces faithfully hand-crafted by the innkeepers themselves. The pavilion is a great spot to host weddings.
