Get to Know Murphy, NC

    Murphy is located at the confluence of the Hiwassee River and Valley River in southwestern North Carolina, approximately halfway between Atlanta, Georgia and Knoxville, Tennessee. The location in the Blue Ridge Mountains has helped the community retain a fairly rural character, surrounded by wildlife such as bear, deer, fox, and recently reintroduced elk.

    Downtown Murphy

    In 1836, during the Cherokee removal known as the Trail of Tears, the United States army built Fort Butler in what is today Murphy. Fort Butler acted as the main collection point for Cherokee east of the mountains. From Fort Butler the Cherokee were taken over the mountains on the Unicoi Turnpike to the main internment camps at Fort Cass (today Charleston, Tennessee). Fort Butler is no longer a structure, but the site can be visited with historical markers to read. The Cherokee County Historical Museum located in Murphy provides information about the Trail of Tears.

    Today, whether you are a foodie, a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Murphy has it all. From locally owned restaurants and downtown stores to thrilling curves and winding curves, it's time to roll the windows down and sing with the radio. It's that kind of town in the mountains where you can breathe fresh air and say hello to a family of turkeys in the front yard.

    DOWNTOWN NATURE RIVERWALK

    This beautiful greenway follows the Valley River and the Hiwassee River surrounding the historic town. It's 3.4 miles of heavily trafficked nature walk trail loop. Whether you take the trail on foot or paddle along the canoe trails, you'll enjoy the ecology and cultural heritage along the way. ​

    ​Tail of the Dragon (Deals Gap) & Cherohala Skyway

    Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap with 318 curves in 11 miles is America’s #1 motorcycle and sports car road. Designated US 129, the road is bordered by the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest with no intersecting roads or driveways to hamper your travel. It is considered “the destination” for thousands of motorcycle and sports car fans throughout the spring, summer, and fall with its heart racing curves and winding spirals.

    Downtown Murphy

    Nearby Cherohala Skyway is quickly becoming a destination as well, with 60 miles of breathtaking scenic mountain highway. Other roads are Moonshiner 28, Smoky Mountain Loop, Foothills Parkway, Devils Triangle, Blue Ridge Parkway, Six Gap North Georgia, and several more.

    ANTIQUING & SHOPS

    ​Downtown Murphy offers an array of stores and shops, including gift shops, antique stores, historical museums, specialty food stores, one-of-a-kind stores, home decor shops, tourism bureau, and art galleries. Regarding this last mention, the Valley River Arts Guild is a must-see downtown where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Murphy, work of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery. And on the 1st Friday of each month May thru December, enjoy the Murphy Art Walk with dozens of artists, live music and good food. Whether you're searching for the perfect artsy gift, hunting for antiques, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, you're sure to find something special in the heart of this charming mountain town.