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Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

After signing the Treaty of New Echota in late 1835, the U.S. government forced the Cherokee Native Americans onto land reserved for them in Oklahoma. Over 16,000 people in Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, and Georgia were forcibly rounded up and relocated even though the vast majority opposed the relocation. Along with help from various state militia, the federal government moved the people, with most being expected to hike along the arduous path. Over 1,000 members of the tribe died along the route. Learn more about the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. There are various places along the trail where you can learn more about the events of 1838 and 1839. 

Things to Do

Things To Do Near Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

If you want to visit the entire Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, consider starting your trip in Cherokee, North Carolina, where you can visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Cherokee Indian Reservation Welcome Center and view related exhibits at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Then, head southeast into Georgia to see one of the removal camps at Cedartown and the Chieftains Museum in Rome. Make your way west from there to see the numerous sites in Alabama and Arkansas before ending your tour in Oklahoma. If you are coming from the northern United States, consider starting the trail in Kentucky by visiting Gray’s Inn, Mantle Rock, and Redford Farm before visiting numerous sites in Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas before ending your visit in Oklahoma. 

Hiking Trails

Sightseeing

Museums

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

map-marker-alt-regular How to Get There

How To Get To Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

Many choose to start their adventure exploring the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail at New Echota State Historic Site in Calhoun, Georgia. This location contains 13 historical buildings and an interpretative center. It is easy to get to this site that was once the home to the Cherokee government from Atlanta. Get on Interstate 75 North and follow it to Exit 317. Then, turn right on Georgia 225 North, and the destination will be on your right. 

Address

New Echota Historic Site, 1211 Georgia 225, Calhoun, Georgia 30701 

Fee: Entry Fee (per person)

There is no entry fee.

The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail is spread across nine states and covers more than 2,200 miles. Native Americans were forced to hike or ride in boats along three diverse trails as the United States government relocated them to present-day Oklahoma. With so many places to explore, you will want to bring your RV. That way, you can stop almost anywhere.