Spectacular stands of tall timbers and rhododendron heritage resources from the regions diverse past, wildlife viewing areas, swiftly moving rivers and calm lakes await the visitor along miles of the state. Overlook pulloffs provide opportunities for viewing and photographing the surrounding countryside. Spring and fall are the most popular times for touring the forest. During spring, the East Tennessee hills are alive with the hues of violet, purple, yellow, red and various shades of green. Wildflower viewing is a popular pastime for many visitors.
Fall colors are brilliant.
The most popular scenic routes in the northern districts include the Flatwoods Road near South Holston Lake, the Unaka Mountain Auto Tour near Erwin, the Roan Mountain area and scenic recreation corridors along Watauga Lake and State Highway 107 in Greene and Cocke Counties. Other popular routes are Big Cliffy Road, Brush Creek Road, hall Top Road, Paint Creek Road, and Hurricane Gap Road. All of these roads are gravel, low speed roads. Other popular scenic auto driving would be the Cherohala Skyway, the skyway crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests along a former Cherokee Indian trade route. N.C. Ocoee Scenic by Way is the first national Forest scenic by-way in the United States.