Hiwassee Scenic River

a designated scenic river

The Hiwassee River is a designated scenic river in Tennessee known for it’s local fish and beautiful views. There is also several things to do in this area including Class I & II rapids!

Contact

Hiwassee Ocoee State Park
404 Spring Creek Rd
Delano, TN 37325
(423) 263-0050

More Information

Designated a Tennessee State Scenic River, the Hiwassee flows through the Cherokee National Forest and the pastoral community of Reliance. According to the legend, the name Hiwassee is taken from the Cherokee workd ayuwasi and means “savannah or place at the foot of the hills.  Native people began clearing the Hiwassee River Valley for agriculture around 3,000 years ago. A major Overhill Cherokee village, Hiwassee Old Town, once sat on its banks at Hwy. 411 Bridge near Delano.

The Hiwassee River Blueway Trail contains over 60 miles of navigable water trails for canoe, kayak, and paddle boat enthusiasts to enjoy.  The trail begins upriver from the Historic District of Reliance in the Cherokee National Forest . It gently winds its way towards the Tennessee River where the trail finally ends at the Hiwassee River Wildlife Refuge Area at Blythe Ferry.  At the upper reaches of the river you will encounter some of the best trout fishing in the eastern U.S.  Along the way to the river’s mouth at Blythe Ferry you pass beautiful wild and undeveloped shore line, pastoral farmland, and numerous historical sites like the Reliance Church, Webb’s Farm, Charleston and Calhoun and the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park at Blythe Ferry.

Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing are popular ways for visitors to enjoy the Hiwassee. Fly fishing guides will ensure that even novices land fish.

Hiwassee Scenic River Outfitters

The Hiwassee is primarily Class I and Class II, although certain sections may be considered Class III. Named by Trout Unlimited as one of the Top 100 Trout Streams in America, the Hiwassee is regularly stocked with trout. Fly fishing companies will provide guided fishing trips, instruction, and equipment, including funyaks, rafts, and tubes.

Hiwassee Outfitters

Hiwassee Outfitters, Inc., is the leading outdoor recreation destination in the Cherokee National Forest. Our campground, rafting, and cabins make us the only destination where you can have it all in one place!

FUN THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY

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SEE THE ARTISTS THAT INSPIRED GENERATIONS

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MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME

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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!

Hampton 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.

Econo Lodge

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

Red Roof Inn

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

Super 8

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.

Days Inn

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

Motor Inns of America

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

Over-Niter RV Park

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