The Best Activities in Tellico Plains, Tennessee for Families

History, fishing, hiking and an auto tour are some of the best activities in Tellico Plains, Tennessee for families. My family always enjoys our visit to this East Tennessee town. It is a good day trip from anywhere in the eastern part of the state or the western portion of North Carolina. But, the attractions in Tellico Plains go farther than that. This town draws visitors from all over the country.

Getting there

Part of what makes Tellico Plains so enjoyable for me is that its off of the beaten path. We usually get there by taking Hwy. 411 to Hwy. 68 and following the signs. It's best to print an online map if you want to come in another route or by I-75.

Recreation and shopping

Part of the reason for the fascination with Tellico Plains is its proximity to the auto tour of the Cherohala Skyway and the Cherokee National Forest. Scenic views and recreation opportunities like hiking are available at different points of the drive. The auto tour is a fun trip but it isn't the only thing helps put Tellico Plains on the map.

Part of what visitors come here for are the shopping opportunities. Antique shops are scattered throughout the town. Perusing them is like searching for buried treasure. You never know what item will catch your eye. An antique item from the hills of Appalachia is a unique souvenir that will be treasured for generations.

My family enjoys picnicking along the nearby Tellico Lake in Loudon County. The Tellico Place is nationally recognized for trout fishing. There are several boat launches and a marina.

The waters of the Tellico River take on ferocity during the spring run-off season. You can sometimes pick a spot on the water to watch the kayaks. The rapids are a class III-IV.

Tellico Lake has a picnic area with a rental pavilion. Reunions are often held here from spring to fall. We've found that the electrical outlet there is a good place to charge a laptop or cell phone. Be sure no one is using the pavilion first.

History

One of the big claims to fame for Tellico Plains, Tennessee is the history of the area. The Cherokee Indians once inhabited the Tellico Plains area. There are signs that prehistoric people were here before that. The area also played a role during colonial days.

There is a ranger station just off of the Cherohala Skyway on Tellico River Road. The center was the first camp in Tennessee that was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930s. The center offers historic interpretation and is open all year.

Where to stay or eat

Camping in the Tellico Plains area include places like the nearby Indian Boundary Campground, KOA or the Cherohala Motorcycle Resort. Bed and breakfast locations are common and many places offer cabin rentals. The Tellico Plains Chamber of Commerce link has a list of locations. It's in the resources section of this article.

The restaurants of Tellico Plains are casual. Many of these are locally owned eateries that take pride in good service and even better food. Gasoline is available. There are several grocery stores where you can pick up camping or picnic supplies.

A trip to Tellico Plains, Tennessee reflects the quieter side of life. It's a good break from the pressures of every day life, and enjoy nature. As you can see, there are many things to see and do here. That is why my family enjoys this list of attractions in Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Your family might just like it too.