One of the few drive-in movie theaters still open. From early spring through late fall, families enjoy double feature movies on a large screen under the stars. The grounds include a snack bar and playground with picnic area. Movies start at dusk during open season.
Swingin’ Midway Drive-In Theater
Coker Creek Gold Panning Dist.
Gold was discovered in 1827 at Coker Creek, located in the high country of Monroe County, Tennessee. Today, sections of Coker Creek in the Cherokee National Forest (CNF) are open for panning. All panners must register and acquire a permit (free) from the CNF. Permits are available at the Coker Creek Welcome Center on Hwy. 68 or the Tellico Ranger Station just off the Tellico River Rd (FS 210).
The Lost Sea Adventure
Home of the largest underground lake in the nation, the caverns include an extensive collection of anthodites (cave flowers). A guided walk to the bottom of the cave is capped off with a boat ride on the lake. The Lost Sea is a registered US Natural Landmark. The Wild Tour, an overnight caving tour for groups, is a favorite of scouts.
Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. Daily (Extended Hours Spring & Summer) Group Rates.
Location – between Sweetwater, TN & Madisonville, TN – just off Hwy 68
140 Lost Sea Road
Sweetwater, TN 37874
423-337-6616
www.thelostsea.com
Conasauga River / Fish Viewing
Fishing, canoeing and hiking are good ways to enjoy the Conasauga River, but its Underwater Wildlife Viewing Area is unique to the Southeast. Visitors can see over 70 species of fish. That’s more than double what is found in the Colorado or Columbia River basins combined. Learn more
Underwater Fish Viewing on the Conasauga River
Springing from the rain-soaked slopes of the Southern Appalachians, this relatively silt-free stretch of the Conasauga State Scenic River supports over 70 fish species, including the federally listed blue shiner, amber darter, and Conasauga logperch, as well as the state-listed trispot and coldwater darters. An exceptionally diverse community of mussels is also present. Guide to River Snorkeling in the Cherokee National Forest
Conasauga River Snorkeling Hole Tours: Guided snorkeling tours are available at select times during the year by calling the Cherokee National Forest at 423-338-3331 or Travis.McDonald@usda.gov. Equipped with mask, snorkel and a field guide to freshwater fishes, identifying these secretive and colorful fish will challenge adventuresome viewers. The Conasauga River Trail offers easy walking to river access points downstream from parking area.
Directions: From junction of Hwy. 64 / 411 south of Benton, TN, travel south 6.7 miles on Hwy. 411. Turn left onto TN 313 (Ladd Springs Road, becomes Willis Springs Road). Travel 4 miles, then bear right on gravel Forest Service Road 221 (Pea Vine/Sheeds Creek Road). Continue for 4.7 miles and turn right onto parking area for Conasauga River Trail 61.
Important Reminders: Always snorkel with a partner and wear safety flotation gear. Please do not disturb or collect the sensitive fauna of this river.
Ocoee River / Whitewater Center
Site of the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom Races, the Ocoee River hosts several whitewater events each year. Commercial river outfitters offer expert guides to help you capture the excitement of the Class III and Class IV rapids. Whitewater enthusiasts can now take guided trips on the Olympic Race Channel, located at the Ocoee Whitewater Center. Check with the Tennessee Overhill for water schedules, or contact the Ocoee-Hiwassee Ranger Station.
Ocoee River Outfitters
Adventures Unlimited – 800-662-0667 – www.adventuresunlimited.net
Big Frog Expeditions – 877-776-2633 – www.ocoeeriver.biz
Cherokee Rafting – 800-451-4238 – www.cherokeerafting.com
Cascade Outdoors – 800-338-7238 – www.cascadeoutdoors.com
Eagle Adventure Company – 800-288-3245 – www.eagleadventures.com
High Country Adventures – 800-233-8594 – www.hcrivers.com
Nantahala Outdoor Expedition – 888-905-7238 – www.noc.com
Ocoee Adventure Center – 800-627-7636 – www.ocoeeadventurecenter.com
Ocoee Adventure Rafting – 800-627-7636 – www.raft.com
Ocoee Outdoors – 800-533-7767 – www.ocoeeoutdoors.com
Ocoee Rafting – 800-251-4800 – www.ocoeerafting.com
Ocoee River Rats – 877-388-4222 – www.ocoeeriverrats.com
Outland Expeditions – 800-827-1442 – www.outlandexpeditions.com
Quest Expeditions – 800-277-4537 – www.questexpeditions.com
Raft One – 800-723-8663 – www.raft1.com
Rolling Thunder River Co – 800-408-7238 – www.rollingthunderriverco.com
Sunburst Adventures – 800-247-8388 – www.sunburstrafting.com
Whitewater Express – 800-676-7238 – www.whitewaterexpress.com
Wildwater LTD. – 877-451-9972 – www.wildwaterrafting.com
Kayak Instruction
Ocoee Adventure Center – 800-627-7636 – www.ocoeeadventurecenter.com