The Cherokee Nation was recently granted a National Scenic Byway certification from the National Scenic Byways Program, a department of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.  The tribe obtained the certification for the Cherokee Hills Byway, an 84-mile route that extends from Gore to West Siloam Springs in the Cherokee Nation.

“This certification is important because it provides another economic development tool to our communities,” Chad Smith, Cherokee Nation principal chief, said.  “It allows the Cherokee Nation and the towns and businesses along the route to work together to share our story and bring visitors to the area.”

The Cherokee Hills Byway is one of only five areas of the state certified with the America’s Byways status.  The others are Historic Route 66, Talimena Scenic Drive, Dry Cimarron Scenic Byway and Wichita Mountains Byway.

America’s Byways includes 151 distinct and diverse roads designated by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation and includes the National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads.  The program is a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States. The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. Although it abounds with lush scenery, the Cherokee Hills Byway is the only byway in Oklahoma selected for its cultural features.

“As a nationally-designated route, we will be able to share our story with travelers from around the nation and around the world,” Donna Tinnin, Cherokee Nation Tourism Development Specialist, said.  “As visitors drive the route, they will be able to experience our Cherokee history and our culture.

“Situated in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, the Cherokee Hills Byway is sure to inspire travelers to delve deeper into the theme and opportunities presented along the byway,” Tinnin said. “From its breathtaking natural beauty to its rich cultural and historical background, the Cherokee Hills Byway offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy and learn about the Cherokee Nation as it was and is today.”

For more information about the Cherokee Hills Byway, call (918) 453-5728 or (800) 256-0671, ext. 5728, or visit www.byways.org/explore.