Whether your idea of recreation is cutting a raft through churning whitewater, mountain biking through the Cherokee National Forest, enjoying a mild and beautiful night camping in Tennessee, strolling down the Appalachian Trail watching for migrant birds, hitting the links on an 18-hole golf course, or shopping for unique trinkets, the vast treasures of Unicoi County can excite even the most static spirit. Visitors and residents alike are tantalized by the wide array of opportunities for recreation, entertainment, exploration and adventure offered by The Valley Beautiful. The county seat of Unicoi County, Erwin is near the Nolichucky River and within Cherokee National Forest. Opportunities are plentiful for hiking, river and stream fishing, horseback riding and just being in the great outdoors of Erwin and surrounding countryside. Fresh mountain air is crisp, clean and clear in Erwin! Visit the interesting Erwin National Fish Hatchery, which produces up to 13 million rainbow trout each year. All phases of fish breeding operations may be seen September through March, and there is a picnic area on the grounds. Unicoi County Heritage Museum is located in Erwin, housed within a 90-year-old frame house, with old-fashioned country store exhibits, Blue Ridge Pottery displays and railroad memorabilia. You will enjoy some of America's most scenic highways in and around Erwin, winding across backroads, running past antique shops, pottery and arts and crafts places. Erwin is also located in the tri-cities area of Bristol, Johnson City and Kingsport, and near Jonesborough, Tennessee's storytelling center and the oldest town in the state.
