Franklin
The Cherokee Middle Towns stretched along the Little Tennessee River and its tributaries from its headwaters to its passage through the Smokies—towns every few miles, surrounded by fields and connected by trails and by the river. The main interpretive centers for the area of the original Cherokee Middle Towns can be found at the Scottish Tartans Museum on Main Street in Franklin. The museum also tells the story of the relationship between the Cherokee and early Scots traders and Scots-Irish settlers. But the spiritual center for this area lies at the Nikwasi Mound, now downtown Franklin. The center of the Nikwasi Village, this mound once supported a townhouse in which the sacred fire burned constantly.
Attractions in Franklin
Little Tennessee River Greenway »
Within sight of the Nikwasi Mound, the Little Tennessee River Greenway follows the river and is a scenic spot of hiking, bicycling and picnicking.
Macon County Historical Society and Battle Marker »
A large bronze plaque on a brick monument tells the story of the historic battle of Etchoe.
Nikwasi Mound »
Once the center of a thriving Cherokee village, the Nikwasi Mound now stands at the center of the town of Franklin.
Scottish Tartans Museum »
This museum serves as one of the interpretive centers for the Cherokee Heritage Trails.
Side Trips Around Franklin
Scenic Drive: Middle Towns–Rt. 441 South to Dillard »
Scenic Drive: Middle Towns–Rt. 28 North to Cowee Village sites and battle sites »
Scenic Drive: Wayah and Beyond–Appletree and Nantahala »
Scenic Drive: Chunky Gal and Shooting Creek—Connect to Murphy on Rt. 64 »
Standing Indian »
This campground remains rich in game, including bear, deer and wild turkey.
Waterfalls and Whiteside Mountain »
Walk behind waterfalls, take in breathtaking vistas and experience places of Cherokee legend.
Wayah Bald and Wayah Gap »
Rising to 5,342 feet, Wayah Bald is named for the wolves that once lived on its slopes.