Murphy is home to rolling green hills, red dirt roads and the blackberry fields of Cherokee County. It takes some of us back to a time when we walked barefoot, swung from a tire swing in Grandma's backyard, and swam at the local swimming hole.Named to honor the Cherokee Indian Nation, in 1715 this was a domain of 40,000-square miles with a population estimated at 11,210 in 53 villages. Murphy is believed to have been the starting point of the historic military effort to relocate Indians to the Oklahoma territory in 1830. That tragic journey is known as the "Trail of Tears".The discovery of gold in streams nearby contributed to the Indians being moved out. You can still pan for gold on a day trip to Coker Creek Village in Tennessee, or take the scenic drive over the mountain to Franklin, NC and go gem mining. Or, if you are feeling lucky, you may find the easy way to riches at Harrah's new casino in the nearby town of Cherokee.Cherokee County's mountain lakes are perfect for boating, fishing and swimming. Guests of Sandy Gap Mountain Rentals may choose to rent boats at Hiwassee, Nottley or Chatuge lakes. All are conveniently located and close by. The Nantahala National Forest offers superb trails for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, plus trout fishing and picnicing. Mountain biking, one of fastest growing outdoor activities, flourishes here because of places like the Tsali Recreation Area. Here trails open up a world of wonder with awesome views, and wildlife teeming in the deep green forests. Golf is always challenging in these parts with our slick greens and rolling fairways similar to the terrain of the Scottish Highlands. Our mountain courses are renowned for their lush fairways, large bent grass greens and the spectacular scenery around every dogleg.Cherokee County is bordered on both ends with whitewater rivers. The Nantahala has Class II and III rapids for those seeking adventures in rafting and kayaking. The Ocoee River offers a 4.7 mile stretch of whitewater filled with Class III and IV rapids and is only 45 minutes away.Festivals, fairs and flea markets abound here. Of course, there is always our favorite - sitting on the deck, doing nothing!Located in nearby Brasstown, the John C. Campbell Folk School offers weekend and weekly classes in time-honored crafts, music and dance. Build a twig chair, make your own dulcimer, carve your imagination into a block of wood, or weave a colorful rug.Murphy is just a 2 hour drive from big cities like Atlanta, Chattanooga, Asheville, and Knoxville. It has a charming small town atmosphere, and an abundance of nearby recreational opportunities. We truly believe Murphy is a perfect mountain vacation destination and is one of the last "undiscovered" areas in North Carolina. 
