National Forest · Tennessee
Cherokee National Forest
Southern Appalachian whitewater & balds
TypeNational Forest
StateTennessee
Best seasonSpring & fall foliage
Don’t missOcoee River whitewater
Tennessee’s largest tract of public land, split by the Smokies into two wild halves of mountain rivers, balds, and waterfalls. The Ocoee hosted the 1996 Olympic whitewater and still runs huge.
What to see
- Ocoee River
- Roan Highlands
- Bald River Falls
- Tellico River
- Appalachian Trail
On public wild lands, services are sparse and conditions change fast — check the managing agency (Forest Service / BLM / Park Service) for road and seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any permits before you go, and pack out what you pack in.
Build a trip around wild places like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: