Spending your vacation at one of the many Murphy rentals is going to be a veritable feast for your eyes. The old town of Murphy in North Carolina is the county seat of Cherokee Country, which is nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. This picturesque town is overflowing with natural beauty that will make your trip a lot more worthwhile than you originally planned. To know more about this place, here are the top must-see natural attractions located near Murphy vacation homes.
1. Nantahala National Forest
The largest among the four national forests in North Carolina, the Nantahala National Forest boasts of over 500,000 acres of exotic wildlife, varied terrain and scenic views. The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee Indian word, which translates to "Land of the Noonday Sun," a name that is apt for the forest because the sun only reaches the steep gorge during the middle of the day. Since it was established in 1920, it has become a popular tourist spot that offers so many outdoor activities including but not limited to hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, kayaking, camping and backpacking. It is also where you can find the famous Nantahala River.
2. Nantahala River
This river is the central attraction of the Nantahala National Forest. It is considered "a mecca of whitewater sports." Enthusiasts visit this place for whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Not only does it offer an incredible adrenaline rush, you also get to enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding while engaged in one of these sports. You can bring your own equipment or rent equipment there.
3. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
Towering trees that have been in this world for almost 500 years are what will welcome you on your trip to one of the most popular forests in the Nantahala National Forest. The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest serves as a tribute to the famous poet Joyce Kilmer, who wrote the legendary poem entitled, "Trees." To make the most out of your visit to this forest, take the Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail that will take you to different parts of the forest including the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque and the Poplar Cove.
4. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
If you want to take your vacation to the ultimate level, hike your way to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a 2,159-mile foot trail nestled along the ridge crests and major valleys of the Appalachian Mountains. The trail actually passes through different states such as Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New Jersey, Georgia and New York, among many others.
5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Established in 1934, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits on a 520,408-acre land with varied elevation and terrain. Some of the activities that you can enjoy while you are at this place are bird watching, wildlife viewing, camping, hiking and horseback riding. The popular horseback riding trails in this park are the Round Bottom and Deep Creek.
You cannot say that you have been to Murphy North Carolina if you have not seen the natural splendor of the place. Search Vamoose.com to see listings, sorted by price, location or amenities, to find the perfect rental to fit your budget and needs.