We’re Going on a Bear Hunt: The Cherokee Bear Project
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If you’re looking for a fun, easy, and surprisingly meaningful way to explore Cherokee, North Carolina, the Cherokee Bears Project should be on your list.
This town-wide art installation features 20 life-size bear statues, each painted by a different local Cherokee artist.
But these aren’t just decorative statues — each bear tells a story, celebrating Cherokee culture, history, and traditions in a way that makes you slow down to appreciate the artistry around you.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been to Cherokee before, this self-guided bear hunt is a fantastic way to experience the town, learn about the deep significance of bears in Cherokee heritage, and see some seriously cool artwork along the way.
Why Bears? The Meaning Behind the Art
Bears have always been a big deal in Cherokee culture. They symbolize strength, wisdom, and protection, and many Cherokee legends describe bears as spiritual guides or even former humans who chose to live in the wild.
They’ve been an important part of Cherokee storytelling for generations, so it makes sense that they’d be the centerpiece of a project that blends art and heritage.
The Cherokee Bears Project started in 2005 to showcase local artists and share pieces of Cherokee history and storytelling in a way that’s easy for visitors to engage with.
Some bears reflect traditional Cherokee symbols, others depict nature themes, and some highlight historical events or legends passed down for centuries.
How to Explore the Cherokee Bears Project
This isn’t a guided tour or a museum exhibit — it’s something you discover as you explore the town.
The bears are placed throughout Cherokee, mostly around downtown and key cultural sites, making it a great excuse to walk around, take in the surroundings, and even pop into local shops along the way.
Each bear has a plaque with the artist’s name and an explanation of the design, so take a minute to read them. Knowing the inspiration behind the artwork adds a whole new layer of appreciation.
If you’re the type who loves a good scavenger hunt, challenge yourself (or your family!) to find all 20 bears while you’re in town. Some are easy to spot, while others are tucked away in unexpected places, making it feel like a mini adventure.
TIP: We found this map of the Cherokee Bear Project – it might help you get started with your bear hunt!
Here are a few of the bears you’ll find:
- Sequoyah Bear (painted by Charles Saunooke) – Honors Sequoyah, the creator of the Cherokee syllabary, symbolizing the importance of language and literacy in Cherokee culture.
- Eagle Dancer Bear (painted by Lora Powell) – Depicts the Eagle Dance, a traditional ceremony symbolizing strength and spiritual connection.
- Cherokee Sunset Bear (painted by Joel Queen) – Captures the vibrant beauty of sunsets over Cherokee lands, blending natural and cultural elements.
- Patriot Bear (painted by William Harris Jr.) – Pays tribute to Cherokee veterans and their service throughout American history.
- Bear on the Little Tennessee River (painted by Jeannine Hornbuckle) – Reflects the importance of the Little Tennessee River in Cherokee life and sustenance.
- Language Bear (painted by Billie Jo Rich) – Celebrates the Cherokee language and its preservation through generations.
- Forefathers Bear (painted by Tim Chiltoskie) – Honors Cherokee ancestors and their enduring influence on modern Cherokee identity.
- Children’s Mixed Bear (painted by the Cherokee Youth Center) – A playful, colorful bear showcasing the creativity of Cherokee youth.
- Legends Bear (painted by Henrietta Lambert) – Brings to life Cherokee myths and stories, showcasing the tribe’s rich oral tradition.
- Out of Hiber-Nation Bear (painted by Niki Nations) – Symbolizes renewal, representing the bear’s emergence from hibernation and Cherokee resilience.
- Harmony of Life Bear (painted by Niki Nations) – Illustrates the balance between nature, animals, and humanity in Cherokee beliefs.
- Big Cove Bear (painted by Mario Esquivel) – Reflects the cultural roots and natural beauty of the Big Cove community.
For more detailed descriptions and to explore all of the bears, visit the Cherokee Bears Project.
More to Explore While You’re in Cherokee
Since you’ll already be wandering through Cherokee on your bear hunt, take some time to explore a few of the town’s other must-see spots.
Cherokee is more than just a gateway to the Smoky Mountains—it’s a destination filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re into history, art, or outdoor adventures, there’s something here worth checking out.
Museum of the Cherokee People
589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC
This is the place to go if you want a deeper dive into Cherokee history and culture.
The Museum of the Cherokee People isn’t your typical museum — it’s a deeply immersive experience that takes you through 13,000 years of Cherokee history, from ancient times to the present day.
Through detailed exhibits, interactive storytelling, artifacts, and multimedia displays, you’ll learn about Cherokee traditions, the Trail of Tears, and the resilience of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Don’t Miss:
- The hands-on exhibits showcase Cherokee storytelling, language, and craftsmanship.
- The powerful section on the Trail of Tears provides a moving look at this tragic chapter in Cherokee history.
- The gift shop has books, art, and handcrafted items from Cherokee artists.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
218 Drama Road, Cherokee, NC
Step back in time and experience Cherokee life in the 18th century.
This living history village brings Cherokee traditions to life. As you walk through, you’ll see artisans carving wood, shaping pottery, weaving baskets, and making traditional beadwork—all using the same techniques their ancestors did centuries ago.
The village also features authentic Cherokee dwellings, demonstrations of traditional dances, and live reenactments that tell the stories of the Cherokee people.
Don’t Miss:
- The council house reenactment is where you can watch a traditional Cherokee meeting in action.
- The warrior training experience is where you can learn about archery and blowgun techniques.
- The storytelling sessions where Cherokee legends and history are shared by local guides.
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual
645 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC
The best place to find authentic, handcrafted Cherokee art.
This artisan co-op is a must-visit if you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir or a truly special gift. Founded in 1946, Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual is the nation’s oldest Native American cooperative and features 100% authentic Cherokee-made items.
You’ll find intricately woven baskets, hand-carved masks, pottery, jewelry, and beadwork, all created by members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Unlike mass-produced souvenirs you might find in some shops, every piece here is unique — a direct connection to Cherokee tradition and craftsmanship.
Don’t Miss:
- The traditional river cane baskets, an art form that has been passed down for generations.
- The stunning handmade pottery, shaped and fired using centuries-old techniques.
- The artist demonstrations, where you can watch skilled craftspeople at work (offered on select days).
Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls Trailhead, Big Cove Road, Cherokee, NC | 0.8-mile round-trip hike
If you’re craving a nature break, Mingo Falls is the perfect side trip while exploring Cherokee. This stunning cascade is a breathtaking 120-foot waterfall – one of the tallest waterfalls in the southern Appalachian Mountains – and it’s just a short hike from the parking area.
The trail is only about 0.4 miles (0.8 miles round-trip) but includes a fair number of stairs, so be prepared for a bit of a climb. Once you reach the falls, the view is absolutely worth it!
Don’t Miss:
- The best time to visit is in the morning when the light hits the falls just right for beautiful photos.
- After heavy rain, the waterfall is even more powerful and dramatic.
- If you have extra time, explore nearby Big Cove Road, a scenic drive that takes you through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Bonus Stops if You Have Extra Time
Oconaluftee Visitor Center & Mountain Farm Museum – A great place to see elk grazing in the fields at sunrise or sunset, plus a historic farmstead with old cabins and barns.
Blue Ridge Parkway Entrance – If you want to take a scenic drive, the start of the Blue Ridge Parkway is just minutes from Cherokee and offers incredible mountain views.
Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama – A live performance that tells the history of the Cherokee people, running seasonally from June to August.
Plan Your Visit
There’s a lot to see and do in Cherokee, but what makes it truly special is the connection between history, art, and nature. Whether tracking down painted bears, diving into Cherokee heritage, or chasing waterfalls, you’re bound to leave with a new appreciation for this amazing town.
One of the best things about the Cherokee Bears Project is that it’s completely free and available year-round. Whether you’re in Cherokee for just a few hours or spending the weekend, this self-guided tour is a fun, low-effort way to soak in the town’s culture and artistry.
Have you visited the Cherokee Bears Project? Which bear was your favorite?
