Unicoi County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Unicoi County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
- located in northeastern Tennessee, near the North Carolina border
- has a rich history that includes early Native American settlements, European exploration, and the establishment of pioneer communities
- The Cherokee Nation lived in the area until the 18th century when European explorers began to settle the region.
- Unicoi County was officially established in 1875, after being carved out of Washington and Carter counties.
- During the Civil War, the county was divided in its loyalties, with some supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy.
- The town of Erwin, the county seat, was once a center for the lumber industry, with several sawmills and a large train depot that shipped lumber out of the area.
- Today, the county is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Notable Landmarks:
- The Appalachian Trail
- runs through Unicoi County
- offers some of the most scenic and challenging hiking in the country
- the trail follows the ridgeline of the Appalachian Mountains
- offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests
- The Erwin Linear Trai
- a popular biking and walking path that follows the Nolichucky River through the town of Erwin
- offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains
- Rock Creek Park
- a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground
- Unicoi County Heritage Museum
- located in the historic courthouse in downtown Erwin
- features exhibits on the history of the county, including displays on the Cherokee Nation, the Civil War, and the logging industry
- The Clinchfield Railroad Depot
- located in downtown Erwin
- was once a major hub for the logging industry
- Today, the depot serves as a museum and community center, with exhibits on the history of the railroad and the logging industry.
What are the recreational activities available in Unicoi County, TN?
Unicoi County, TN offers a range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors and residents alike. Here are some of the most popular activities:
- Hiking: Unicoi County is home to a portion of the Appalachian Trail, which offers some of the most scenic and challenging hiking in the country. The county also has a variety of other hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous climbs.
- Fishing: The Nolichucky River, which runs through Unicoi County, is a popular destination for fly fishing. The river is stocked with brown and rainbow trout, and there are several guides and outfitters in the area that offer guided fishing trips.
- Mountain Biking: The county has several mountain biking trails that offer a variety of terrain for all skill levels. The popular Buffalo Mountain Trail System offers more than 20 miles of singletrack trails.
- Kayaking and Rafting: The Nolichucky River is also a popular destination for kayaking and rafting, with several outfitters offering guided trips down the river.
- Camping: There are several campgrounds in the county, including the popular Rock Creek Recreation Area, which offers campsites and cabins in a beautiful forested setting.
- Wildlife Viewing: The county is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bear, and wild turkey. The Cherokee National Forest, which covers a large portion of the county, offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
- Winter Sports: During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at the nearby Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, which is located just a short drive from Unicoi County.
