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Cheoah Ranger District adventures

Cheoah Ranger District Adventures

The Cheoah Ranger District offers a rugged and diverse landscape amidst the Nantahala National Forest, famous for its challenging trails and breathtaking vistas.

120,500
Acres Protected
186
Miles of Trails
200,000
Annual Visitors
1920
Year Established

About Cheoah Ranger District

Cheoah Ranger District
 

The Cheoah Ranger District stretches across the western part of North Carolina, providing a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its topography is marked by the towering peaks of the Appalachian Mountains and dense forest cover typical of the Nantahala National Forest. This area is renowned for its biodiversity, hosting a variety of aquatic, plant, and animal species, including rare and endangered ones. The district has a rich cultural history with connections to Native American heritage and early European settlements. Visitors can revel in numerous recreational activities such as hiking on the Appalachian Trail, accessing backcountry camping spots, and whitewater adventures on local rivers. The dynamic landscape is also home to famous driving routes, including the Tail of the Dragon, known for its curves and scenic outlooks.

Highlights

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Appalachian Trail section with stunning views

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Diverse habitats supporting numerous wildlife species

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Historic Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest

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Remote opportunity for off-the-grid camping

Notable Natural Features

Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest

Honors the poet and contains old-growth trees over 400 years old.

Tail of the Dragon

Famous for its 318 curves in 11 miles, attracting motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts.

Santeetlah Lake

Man-made lake offering pristine waters and a serene setting for water-based recreation.