Chilhowee Lake

your perfect lake getaway

The Chilhowee Lake are is full of excitement from the beautiful lake itself to the campground, recreation area, and the elaborate trail system, there’s something here for everyone.

Contact

Chilhowee Lake
Chilhowee Lake
Knoxville, TN 37878

More Information

Chilhowee Lake provides part of the boundary between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Forest. This shallow 10-mile long, cool water reservoir is more river-like, coursing a narrow, twisted route that stretches upstream to Calderwood Dam, near the state line. This quieter lake provides a peaceful setting for fishermen and paddlers. The lake’s 1,747-acre reservoir has a drainage area of 1,977 square miles and runs parallel to US 129. The dam was completed in 1957, impounding the Little Tennessee River. The lake borders the southern entrance to the Foothills Parkway and nearby Abrams Creek, which flows into the Chilhowee Lake. Access is easy and convenient with several boat ramps on US 129 along the Lake’s northern border.

Chilhowee Recreation Area

Part of Chilhowee Recreation Area, the lake rests on top of Chilhowee Mountain.

The Chilhowee Trail System beckons hikers and mountain bikers (novice to experienced) to more than 20 miles of trails. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so have your camera ready and tread lightly. Picnic, bathhouse, and campground facilities make this a perfect spot for a family vacation. Non-motorized boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. There is a parking area at the trailhead for Benton Falls trail. ($3.00 day fee).

What People Are Saying

This was a very beautiful drive. It had a lot of overlooks and the trees were very beautiful. We also rode over to Joyce Kilmer Forest. This was a very nice hike and was amazing to see all the older trees. I would advise to take a bathroom break before the trip across the mountain.

Road trip

Linda, NC.

Incredible drive through the Cherokee National Forest. Lots of hiking, waterfalls and mountain streams. Areas of the skyway are rather curvy, so beware. Some like to speed through this area either in road rally’s or on motorcycle. Have seen several severe accidents.
A MUST visit for all the beauty!

Unbelievable beauty

dbauman, TN

We were surprised at how beautiful this route is. Sadly, our trip was cut short from annual undergrowth burning. We will definitely come back this way.

Gorgeous views

Mike, AL.

Nice smooth road that’s a lot of fun with beautiful sights. There’s plenty of pull offs for photos and small hikes and it makes a really nice scenic drive.

Awesome road and view

Illinois

We were in town to view the fall foliage. We hit it just right. This drive is magnificent. Several viewing sights along the way. Take advantage of all if possible.

Beautiful

Bruce, MS.

See For Yourself

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Places to stay near here

FIND COMFORT NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE

The Tennessee Overhill region covers several areas that are full of wonderful places to stay. No matter where you end up, you can rest easy knowing days full of fun and adventure await!

Red Roof Inn

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Comfort Inn

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Motor Inns of America

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Over-Niter RV Park

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

I-75 Campground

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Econo Lodge

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Scottish Inn

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America’s Best Value

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Hampton Inn

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.