Cherokee Blog

How to Enjoy Elk Viewing Safely

On your next trip to historic Cherokee, there’s one activity we recommend above all else: Elk viewing! While this low-key activity may not ramp up the heart rate like an outdoor tubing day, there’s truly nothing like relaxing in nature and watching one of North America’s most beautiful animals enjoying their day-to-day lives.

And if you have kiddos? This is the perfect, inexpensive activity that you can do as a family – all age groups welcome.

So, before you plan your next trip to Cherokee, North Carolina, keep reading to learn all about the beautiful, furry friends that graze the fields of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center!

What is an Elk

So, let’s start with understanding what an elk actually...

Your Guide to Packing a Hiking Backpack

What is a hiking backpack? Is a hiking backpack worth it? Is it different than a school backpack? We get a lot of questions about hiking backpacks and whether or not you need one (short answer is yes), but why, exactly?

If you’ve just picked up hiking as a beginner or you’re looking to upgrade your current every day, traditional backpack with a hiking backpack, then this is the blog post for you! We’re here to answer all your hiking backpack frequently asked questions and give you the best tips and tricks on how exactly to pack a hiking backpack.

Benefits of a Hiking Backpack

Firstly, let’s take a look at the difference between a traditional, travel backpack and a hiking backpack. A...

How to Choose the Best Hiking Boots for You

Hiking boots are the essential item to have when on a trek, whether that’s through the thick brush of wilderness or on rocky terrain in the southwest. Not having a pair is a sure-fire way to get in some serious trouble, which is why understanding their uses and benefits is incredibly important – for both beginner hikers and experienced pros.

In this blog, we’ll be discussing all things hiking boots: what they are, why they’re necessary, and how to break them in before your next grand hiking adventure through the Smoky Mountains National Park!

Hiking Boots vs. Traditional Sneakers: What’s the Difference?

You wear tennis shoes to play tennis, you wear gym shoes at the gym – so, what...