Go on an adventure down the river at Big Bear Tubing
Tellico, as a proper Southern town, gets really hot and humid during the Summer. One of the best ways to cool off while being outside is to go for a ride down the Tellico River with Big Bear Tubing. When you and your friends arrive at Big Bear Tubing, you'll ride in a bus down to the company's private river entrance to get your tube to ride on. A mix of currents carry you downstream as you sit back and admire the natural surroundings. You'll travel below the beautifully constructed private million-dollar bridge, and through a few small rapids to the midway stop, where you can take a nice relaxing swim and enjoy the amazing mountain scenery, while gently winding down the lazy river. The entire journey lasts around an hour and the last bus leaves at 05 PM.
Try your luck Gold Panning at Coker Creek
Something you may not expect to be able to do in Monroe County is go panning for gold. You'll have to head out to Coker Creek (a community of Tellico Plains) which was the site of a gold rush in the mid 19th century. We have a full guide on gold panning which we recommend you read before trying to strike it rich because you can't just go prospecting anywhere you like. In short, you'll need to get a permit from the Coker Creek Visitor Center then head down to the Gold Camp. A few key tips: creeks and streams are the best place to go panning, gold will often be the heaviest thing in the sediment, and patience is key as gold panning can take a while.
Check out fish in their natural habitat by Snorkeling
You might not expect a mountainous region like ours to be a place to go snorkeling but you can in Monroe County! This is a great way to cool off during a hot Summer day while also getting to experience something you normally can't in a place like this. The Tellico River and Citico Creek are the best places to see all the different aquatic animals that live in our rivers. You'll want to find clean clear water with a weak current. If you can find a spot with a variety of microhabitats, even better. We have a full guide on what to look for, so don't worry about trying to memorize all of this. You should see a variety of species including bass, darters, shiners, stonerollers, sunfish, and maybe even some turtles!
Shop for organic produce at the Tellico Community Farm Market
Monroe County has a few farmers markets but none quite like this. The Tellico Community Farm Market is owned by our local Mennonite community and sells a variety of organic vegetables depending on the season. If you don't know when the best time is, check this seasons guide. They also sell jams, jellies, apple butter, honey, molasses, baked goods, canned goods, and homemade soap. The market is a ten minute drive from Downtown Tellico with large signs directing the way. Be aware that they only accept cash and the nearest bank is 5 miles away. Also please respect their modest dress code.
Stay close to the Skyway at the Tellico Plains Inn
Tellico Plains has so many great things to do during the Summer that you'll need a few days to do them all. So where are you going to stay? One of the best choices is the Tellico Plains Inn. Originally built in 1916, this inn is just steps away from all the shopping and dining in downtown and is just a block away from the Cherohala Skyway. Most rooms at the inn sleep 2 and each includes a bathroom and mini-fridge. The inn also features a porch with rocking chairs, a staple of Southern hospitality. For any visitors looking for a venue for a small wedding or a party, the Tellico Plains Inn also includes an event room with room for around 50 people.
