Go for a hike in the Cherokee National Forest
Once the Summer heat starts to disappear, the forests become a tapestry of yellow, orange, and red with splashes of evergreen. You can see the leaves change color anywhere in Monroe County but the best place to see the full majesty of this transition is the Cherokee National Forest. The forest has several trails; the one we recommend the most, especially for a casual stroll, is the trail at Indian Boundary Lake. Here you can get both close-up and wide-angle looks at the multi-color leaves. If you come on a day of calm weather, see the reflection of the forest in the lake.
Ride on the Cherohala Skyway
The Cherohala Skyway gives amazing views of the forest in every season, but if you can only visit once in a year, you have to experience the Skyway in the Fall. The Skyway has several overlooks where you can pull off the road, get out of your car, and view the rolling mountains and autumnal forests. Before you begin the journey, stop by the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center to grab a free map, chat with the friendly knowledgeable staff, and have any questions answered. The visitor center has a variety of souvenirs including seasonal decor.
Visit the Cherohala Skyway Festival
On the fourth Saturday of every October, Tellico Plains is proud to host the Cherohala Skyway Festival. This festival has something for everyone in the family. The adults will love the local artisans selling their crafts while the kids will enjoy the petting zoo and kids train. The snack-lovers (which is to all, all of us) can enjoy a feast of treats and those who want to experience a bit of action can visit the axe-throwing trailer. The festival also includes live musical performances, a raffle, wagon rides, pumpkin painting, and so much more. Admission is free but there is a $10 fee to park your vehicle. All profits go to the Charles Hall Museum. Visit their website for a full schedule of events.
Check out the Fall decor at Everhart Lumber Company
When you visit the forests in the Fall, you can spend as long as you like looking at the trees, but you can't take anything home but photos and memories. If you want to bring a bit of that natural beauty with you, check out Everhart Lumber Company. Their craftspeople make a variety of items ranging from small bowls to kitchen tables, all from locally sourced lumber. Get one of their charcuterie boards to really impress your family and friends during your Thanksgiving dinner. And with Christmas around the corner, this is a great place to do some gift shopping. Their items have a large price range with the cheapest items being around $25.
Get a Hot Drink and Baked Goods at Tellico Grains Bakery
A perfect Fall day is not complete without a warm bevarage and a baked good. Tellico Grains Bakery in downtown Tellico is a popular place for locals and visitors to grab some fresh baked sweet treats like the cookies and scones or something savory like a Benton's bacon cheddar biscuit. In terms of hot drinks, the bakery's menu includes brewed coffee, espresso, latte, mocha, and tea. The bakery has a rustic aesthetic with exposed brick walls and wooden cabinets and is the perfect place to start your day in Tellico Plains.
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