Explore the Tennessee Overhill
Downtowns
The downtown areas of the Tennessee Overhill region offer a welcoming blend of small-town charm, local culture, and historic character that gives the area its unique identity. Towns like Etowah, Englewood, and Madisonville feature walkable streets lined with locally owned shops, antique stores, cafes, and community gathering spaces. Many of these downtown districts are rooted in railroad and Appalachian history, with preserved architecture and landmarks that reflect the region’s early growth. Places like the historic downtown in Etowah, centered around the old railroad depot area, still carry that nostalgic feel while serving as active hubs for modern-day life.
Throughout the Overhill, downtown districts often serve as the heart of community activity, hosting seasonal festivals, farmers markets, car shows, and live music events that bring residents and visitors together. Madisonville’s courthouse square, for example, is a focal point for local gatherings and celebrations, while Englewood’s small downtown area reflects a quieter, close-knit community atmosphere where neighbors still know each other by name. These towns may be small, but they are rich in personality, offering authentic experiences that stand apart from larger commercial destinations. Whether you’re exploring a local diner, browsing handcrafted goods, or attending a weekend festival, the downtown areas of the Tennessee Overhill showcase the region’s hospitality, tradition, and strong sense of community.
Fishing
PLENTY OF PLACES TO FISH
Fishing has been a main attraction to Tennessee for many generations. Native American’s built fish weirs (traps) on rivers and hunted the forests and riverbottoms for game. The Cherokee National Forest, 4 rivers, 4 lakes, and private farms that open for special hunts provide plenty of opportunities for anglers and hunters. At Tennessee Overhill, we have plenty of fishing destinations and companies that will help you find the best locations, gear, and techniques to have a great day on the water.
For details about hunting and fishing in Tennessee contact: TWRA 800-332-0900 or www.tn.gov/twra
Southeastern Anglers offers guided fishing experiences for people of all ages and skill levels. These guided experiences include fly fishing, float trips, and wade fishing. Premier Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide Service on the Cumberland River, Hiwassee River, South Holston River and Toccoa River.
Tellico Outfitters was established in April 2019. We are working hard to provide you with the best possible experience while exploring the fantastic fishing opportunities that Tellico Plains has to offer. We strive to bring you top quality gear, local knowledge and fly fishing instruction, and top-notch customer service.
Local Artists, Galleries & Music
East Tennessee is rich in cultural traditions that reflect a deep connection to Appalachian heritage, especially through its vibrant dancing, games, and sports. Community gatherings often feature lively square dancing and traditional games that bring people together across generations. Music is at the heart of the region, with strong roots in bluegrass and folk, shaped by artists like Dolly Parton, whose influence highlights the area’s storytelling spirit. Visual arts thrive in local crafts such as quilting, pottery, and woodcarving, while artisanal foods—like homemade jams, cornbread, and smoked meats—showcase both creativity and tradition. Household art appears in handmade furniture and decorative items that blend function with beauty, while occupational art reflects skilled trades like blacksmithing and weaving. Verbal art lives on through storytelling, tall tales, and spoken word passed down through generations, and written art continues this legacy in regional poetry, songs, and literature. Together, these forms create a rich cultural tapestry that defines East Tennessee’s unique artistic identity.
Discover Local Art & Music
The Tennessee Overhill includes several local destinations to enjoy the arts. We have a wide selection of art galleries and music venues that have different shows and events throughout the year. There’s always something new to enjoy in the Overhill region.
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Athens Art Center
The center houses a 200 seat black box theater, art gallery and art market, with regular musical concerts, plays, art exhibits, art classes and dances. There is always an art exhibit in the gallery and the art market offers regional artists’ works for sale.
Baker's Place
Come on down to enjoy the family fun and alcohol-free atmosphere of country western music and dancing. Live bands play 2 stepping, country waltz, square dancing (in the round) and line dancing. Children are welcome.
Black Bear Trading Post
Featuring chainsaw art carved on site: bears, totem poles, benches, signs and custom designs from salvaged local wood. Also handmade candles are sold.
Christmas is Here
The gallery features award winning hand-hewn bowls by Rip & Tami Mann but a number of other artists’ works are offered for sale as well.
Coker Creek Gallery
This center displays an array of local and regional arts and crafts; books, baskets, pottery and jewelry. Also, this is a non-profit organization that supports the local community Post Office while providing information for travelers. Occasionally, live music is presented.
Etowah Arts Commission
The gallery sponsors and encourages cultural and educational activities in the city and surrounding areas. Activities and exhibits include art exhibits, art classes, craft projects and artist receptions.
GEM Theater
Built in 1927, this historic movie house has been renovated as a performance center. Home to the “Annual Cousin Jake Memorial Bluegrass Festival.” The Gem has its own resident theater company – the Gem Players who offer live performances.
Legends Guitar Shop
A musical instruments dealer and repair shop, with guitar lessons available on-site. Jam sessions are usually part of the daily atmosphere at Legends.
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Ocoee Dam Deli
Offering a wholesome dining atmosphere with down home cooking. The Dam Deli presents the acoustic sounds of bluegrass and Americana music every Saturday night.
Polk County Newspaper Bookshop
This charming bookshop and coffee bar serves as an art gallery for local artists and craftsmen. New books by local authors and used books are sold. The shop also maintains history files and photographs for public access.
Scott Street Gallery
Gallery featuring local artists includes the working studio of Shelia Holbo. You will often find her at work drawing, painting, carving in wood or working on her Cherokee flat weaving. Shelia’s artwork on display features mountain scenes, animals and florals.
Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
The beautiful museum gift shop has an array of books, music and authentic Native American crafts.
Shop the World Gifts
Englewood’s hidden treasure; this delightful shop is full of handcrafted items from around the world. Bill & Jean Cochran acquire their merchandise from fair-trade markets around the world, so you can feel good about your purchase.
Stone Cottage
Brenda Lee’s restored stone Arts & Crafts period bungalow is filled with fine antiques, local & antique pottery, hand tinted photos and Amish cedar chests. You may find her harvesting the herb garden in the side yard or weaving herbs into works of art on her handloom. Her herbal art is just one of the Cottage’s unique treasures on display.
Tellico Arts Center
Representing over 70 talented local artists and craftspeople; fine art, fabric art, pottery, books, and musical recordings.
The Outpost Pavilion
Sit back and relax to the sound of local bands ranging from rock to bluegrass. Come enjoy the best food in the most laid-back atmosphere in the area – tell us about your day on the river, the roads, the trails or lakes. Good food, fun & music.
Notable Museums in the Tennessee Overhill & East Tennessee Area
MCMINN COUNTY MUSEUMS
ENGLEWOOD TEXTILE MUSEUM
ETOWAH L&N DEPOT & RAILROAD MUSEUM
727 Tennessee Avenue | Etowah, TN | (423) 263-7840
Housed in a restored 1906 Victorian railroad station, this museum
offers exhibits on the town’s railroad history, an art gallery, and
serves as the ticket office for the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure.
MCMINN COUNTY LIVING HERITAGE MUSEUM
522 W Madison Avenue | Athens, TN | Phone: (423) 745-0329
livingheritagemuseum.org
Over 12,000 artifacts across 30 permanent and temporary exhibits,
showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of Southeast
Tennessee from the 1700s to the present, including exhibits on the
Cherokee Nation, pioneer life, and the Battle of Athens.
SWIFT MUSEUM FOUNDATION
McMinn County Airport | 223 County Road 552 | Athens, TN
(423) 745-9547 | swiftmuseumfoundation.org
Dedicated to preserving the history of the Globe Swift aircraft,
this aviation museum features vintage aircraft, artifacts, and
hosts an annual fly-in event for enthusiasts.
MONROE COUNTY MUSEUMS
CHARLES HALL MUSEUM
229 Cherohala Skyway | Tellico Plains, TN | (423) 253-8000
charleshallmuseum.com
Located at the start of the Cherohala Skyway, this museum
preserves Appalachian and American history with artifacts
ranging from arrowheads and firearms to antique telephones. It’s
a certified site on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.
FORT LOUDOUN STATE HISTORIC PARK
338 Fort Loudoun Road | Vonore, TN | (423) 884-6217
tnstateparks.com/parks/fort-loudoun
This reconstructed 18th-century British fort offers living history
demonstrations, a visitor center with exhibits, and scenic views
of Tellico Lake.
SEQUOYAH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM
576 TN Hwy 360 | Vonore, TN | (423) 884-6246
sequoyahmuseum.org
Operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this museum
honors Sequoyah, creator of the Cherokee syllabary, and offers
insights into Cherokee history and culture.
SWEETWATER HERITAGE MUSEUM
115 W North Street | Sweetwater, TN | (423) 337-6979
Located steps away from Downtown Sweetwater, this museum
showcases 150 years of the city’s history with exhibits on
education, business, agriculture, and local organizations.
VONORE HERITAGE MUSEUM
619 Church Street | Vonore, TN | (423) 884-2989
This museum features a variety of artifacts from the people
of Vonore and chronicles daily life through the last 150 years.
Visitors can explore memorabilia that defines what life in Vonore
was like in the past.
POLK COUNTY MUSEUMS
DUCKTOWN BASIN MUSEUM
212 Burra Burra Street | Ducktown, TN | (423) 496-5778
ducktownbasinmuseum.com
Situated on the historic Burra Burra Mine site, this museum
chronicles 150 years of copper mining history in the region,
featuring artifacts, photographs, and a self-guided walking tour
of the remaining mining structures.
POLK COUNTY HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
140 Commerce Street | Benton, TN | (423) 338-0333 | pchgs.com
Dedicated to preserving Polk County’s history, the society
maintains archives and exhibits related to local genealogy and
historical events.
The museums of East Tennessee’s Overhill region offer a rich and immersive look into Appalachian heritage, early industry, and cultural history. From living history experiences like the Museum of Appalachia to working historic sites such as Falls Mill, these destinations preserve the stories of mountain life, craftsmanship, and community. Smaller museums and heritage centers throughout the region highlight everything from Civil War history to natural science, while organizations like the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association help tie it all together by promoting the area’s deep historical roots. Together, these museums provide visitors with a meaningful connection to the traditions, people, and landscapes that define this unique part of Tennessee.
Boating, Canoeing, Paddling, Rafting and Tubing
PLENTY OF PLACES TO FISH
The Tennessee Overhill region is a true playground for water recreation, offering everything from peaceful paddling routes to some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. Rivers like the Ocoee River and Hiwassee River draw visitors from all over thanks to their versatility. The Ocoee, famously home to the 1996 Summer Olympics whitewater events, is widely considered one of the top rafting rivers in the United States, offering thrilling Class III and IV rapids and guided trips through scenic mountain gorges. Meanwhile, the Hiwassee Scenic River provides a more relaxed experience, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, with gentle currents that wind through farmland and forest, making it ideal for families and beginners.
Beyond the rapids, East Tennessee is filled with calm waterways and blueways that are perfect for leisurely exploration. The Tellico Blueway offers an 11-mile paddling route through quiet backwaters, where kayakers and canoeists can glide past limestone bluffs, wildlife, and forested shorelines. Nearby, Tellico Lake and Parksville Lake provide wide-open spaces for boating, paddleboarding, and tubing, blending scenic beauty with easy water access. For those looking to slow things down even further, rivers like the Conasauga River and smaller mountain streams offer peaceful floats, wildlife viewing, and crystal-clear water that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on whitewater rapids or drifting quietly through a shaded river bend, East Tennessee delivers a diverse and unforgettable water experience for every skill level.
Hiwassee Rafting Outfitters
HIWASSEE ADVENTURES
587 Childers Creek Rd | Reliance, TN 37369
(423) 338-4488
hiwasseeadventures.com
As the closest outfitter to the river put-in, Hiwassee Adventures offers self-guided trips with rentals for solo and tandem kayaks, 4-person rafts, and tubes. Their family-friendly campground features tent sites, group camping areas, and amenities like hot showers and a camp store.
HIWASSEE OUTFITTERS
115 Ellis Creek Rd | Reliance, TN 37369
(423) 338-8115
hiwasseeoutfitters.com
Located in the Cherokee National Forest, Hiwassee Outfitters offers self-guided rafting trips on a 5.5-mile stretch of the Hiwassee River. They provide rentals for inflatable solo and tandem kayaks, rafts, and tubes. Accommodations include riverside cabins, tent camping, and RV sites with full hookups.
WEBB BROTHERS STORE & FLOAT SERVICE
3708 Hwy 30 | Reliance, TN 37369
(423) 338-2373
webbbros.com
Let Webb Brothers Float Service send you on a Whitewater Adventure down the Hiwassee River! The 5-mile trip on the Hiwassee Scenic River winds through the Cherokee National Forest, ending in the pastoral setting of the Reliance Historic District.
Performing Arts
The Tennessee Overhill region offers a vibrant and deeply rooted performing arts scene that reflects both its Appalachian heritage and its close ties to nearby cultural hubs. In towns like Etowah and Madisonville, local theaters, schools, and community groups regularly host live performances ranging from classic stage productions to music showcases and seasonal events. A standout venue is the historic Gem Theater, where visitors can experience concerts, plays, and film screenings in a beautifully restored 1920s setting. These intimate performances highlight local talent while creating a welcoming, small-town atmosphere that makes every show feel personal and authentic.
Music is especially central to the region’s performing arts identity, with strong influences from bluegrass, country, and traditional Appalachian folk. Live music can often be found at festivals, community gatherings, and heritage events organized by groups like the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association, which works to preserve and promote the cultural traditions of the area. Just a short drive away, larger venues such as Clarence Brown Theatre in Knoxville and the Tennessee Theatre offer professional productions, touring performances, and symphony concerts, expanding the region’s artistic reach. Together, these venues and events create a dynamic performing arts landscape where tradition and creativity come together, giving visitors and locals alike a rich and memorable cultural experience.
Rivers, Lakes, and Blueways
Rapids to race, waters to wander
We are home to the world famous Ocoee River, which was an Olympic whitewater venue. We also have still lakes, tranquil streams, and cool waterfalls. Some places you can drive to. Others require a hike in the solitude of the deep forest. Who knows what you may see on the trip to get there. whether you are looking for tranquil space or thrilling adventure, we have water locations just for you.
Chilhowee Lake
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.
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.
Hiwassee Scenic River & Blueway
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 word 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.
Indian Boundary Lake
The 96-acre lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Picnic areas with grills and a picnic pavilion is provided. Three miles of hiking and biking trails around the lake. Visitors may enjoy watching beaver, ducks and other waterfowl, or try their luck at catching bass, sunfish and catfish.
North River
The North River, a nationally recognized trout stream, is a Tributary of the Tellico River. Its entire course is located in a very scenic, somewhat isolated area. For the vast majority of its length it is paralleled by Forest Road 217, also called North River Road. A series of small ledges delights kayakers with the biggest being about 5 feet high.
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.
Parksville Lake
The oldest man-made lake in the Cherokee National Forest, it was created in 1910-11 with the building of Ocoee Dam Number One (Parksville Dam). Sometimes known as Lake Ocoee, this 1,930-acre is popular for water skiing, pontoon boating, jet skiing, swimming, and picnicking. It has two public boat launches located along Hwy 64.
Tellico River, Blueway, & Lake
Located along the Tellico River arm of Tellico Lake, the Tellico Blueway is a dream come true for flatwater canoeists and kayakers. At 11 miles, the Blueway is long enough for an overnight float, but short enough to paddle in one day.
Scenic Byways & Drives
Breathtaking Getaways
These scenic drives will give you a taste of everything the TN Overhill region has to offer. Whether it’s the Cherohala Skyway or one of the more remote drives, you’ll experience a lot. All from the comfort of your car.
Byway Bookends
TN Overhill has a scenic drive on both sides of the region. The Cherohala Skyway and the Ocoee Scenic Byway both make for great adventures and wonderful memories.
Cherohala Skyway
The drive is about 50 miles long with views of ancient forests where Cherokee tribes and early pioneers traveled and settled in the Appalachian Mountains along with mile-high vistas with magnificent views.
Farms, Fields & History
This drive from Sweetwater to Athens is a curvy rural backroad that passes several dairy farms. Along the way you will pass several historic landmarks and buildings full of our local culture and history.
Hiwassee River Rd.
This drive will take you on a path to several historically relevant sites as well as lead you to one of the most popular fishing destinations in the area, Big Bend and the Apalachia Powerhouse.
Main Street to the Mountains
This drive will take you from Athens to Robbinsville, NC going through Tellico Plains and traveling along the beautiful Cherohala Skyway. You’ll see national forests from above the tree line and end up in a wonderful destination in North Carolina.
Ocoee Scenic Byway
The Ocoee National Forest Scenic Byway winds through the Ocoee River Gorge in the Cherokee National Forest. One section climbs to the top of the Chilhowee Mountains with breath-taking views of the Tennessee Valley.
Tellico River Rd.
Located near Tellico Plains, this road winds alongside the Tellico River as it tumbles through the Cherokee National Forest. Along the way, you will pass the Historic Tellico Ranger Station, built as a CCC Camp and lovingly restored.
Two Rivers, One Ride
This drive from Copperhill to Benton winds through the rugged Ocoee River Gorge, with curves surrounded by rock bluffs on one side & the Ocoee River on the other. Take time to look at the rock formations in the river beds and road cuts.
State and National Parks
Nationally known parks
From local state parks like the Hiwassee or Ocoee park and the Sugarloaf Mountain park to the famous Cherokee National Forest, the Tennessee Overhill region is full of natural beaty that will have you coming back time and time again!
Cherokee National Forest
Cherokee National Forest is located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee. The 600-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Hiwassee River Scenic State Park
Set along the beautiful Hiwassee River, Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park is known for its peaceful scenery, excellent fishing, and opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The park’s river overlooks and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for relaxing outdoor adventures in the Tennessee Overhill region.
Ocoee River State Park
Nestled in the scenic foothills of the southern Appalachians, Ocoee River State Park offers breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and direct access to the world-famous Ocoee River. Once home to the whitewater events of the 1996 Olympic Games, the park is a favorite destination for rafting, kayaking, camping, and outdoor adventure.
Sugarloaf Mountain State Park
Sugarloaf Mountain Park is located just inside the Cherokee National Forest (CNF) and below the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) dam that creates Lake Ocoee (also called Parksville Lake). The 1,950 acre lake, entirely encompassed by the CNF, is a great for swimming. This area is a great place to stop and picnic, enjoy nature, and learn from interpretive signs.
Benton MacKaye Trail The Benton
MacKaye Trail winds nearly 300 miles through the Appalachian mountains. The trail runs from Springer Mountain in Georgia to the Big Creek Campground on the northern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Ocoee / Hiwassee Ranger District Trails
This selection of trails in the Ocoee and Hiwassee region are packed with beautiful views and wildlife. Explore what trails there are including hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails!
Tellico Ranger District Trails
This selection of trails in the Tellico region are packed with beautiful views and wildlife. Explore what trails there are including hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails!
Trails
Find yourself in nature
The Tennessee Overhill includes the entire southern portion of the Cherokee National Forest, Hiwassee / Ocoee State Park, and TVA lakes – all offering hiking that ranges from family friendly and easy to challenging. Whether you choose to backpack into a Wilderness Area or casually walk alongside a scenic river trail, you will have ample opportunities to enjoy nature at your pace.
Hiking is allowed in the CNF on all trails even though some trails are “designated” for Mountain Bikes, Motorcycles, or Equestrian. Please be courteous, cooperate and abide by the “share the trail” rules.
For help planning your hike, contact us at 877-510-5765
Unique Adventures
The Tennessee Overhill region is packed with one-of-a-kind adventures that blend adrenaline, scenery, and unforgettable experiences. Thrill-seekers can soar through the treetops on ziplines, take in sweeping mountain views while hang gliding, or hit the open road on a motorcycle ride along legendary routes like the Cherohala Skyway—a breathtaking drive that winds through the Cherokee National Forest with panoramic overlooks around every bend. For those drawn to the water, the Ocoee River offers world-class whitewater rafting with heart-pounding rapids that once hosted Olympic competition, while nearby stretches provide opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and more relaxed paddling. Every turn in the Overhill presents a new way to experience the outdoors, whether you're chasing thrills or simply soaking in the mountain views.
Beyond the high-energy excursions, the region is filled with immersive and scenic experiences that are just as memorable. A visit to The Lost Sea Adventure takes you deep underground to explore America’s largest underground lake, where guided tours lead through vast caverns before boarding a glass-bottom boat. Above ground, the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure offers a relaxing journey along the river, winding through mountain landscapes and quiet countryside that showcase the area’s natural beauty at a slower pace. These experiences highlight the Overhill’s unique ability to balance excitement with tranquility, giving visitors a deeper connection to the landscape.
For a truly distinctive adventure, Ocoee Riverside Farm brings together outdoor fun, scenic beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere along the banks of the Ocoee River. Here, visitors can enjoy everything from tubing and kayaking to relaxing by the water or taking in the surrounding mountain views. It’s the perfect complement to the region’s more high-adrenaline offerings, giving families and groups a place to unwind while still enjoying the spirit of adventure. Together, these experiences make the Tennessee Overhill a destination where every kind of explorer—from thrill-seeker to sightseer—can find something truly unforgettable.
Waterfalls
Baby Falls
From the Bald River Falls parking area go up FS Road 210 .33 miles. Parking area is on the left side of the road. The water fall is located downstream approximately 320 feet below the parking area.
Bald River Falls
FS road 210 (Tellico River Rd). These spectacular falls can be seen from the highway bridge on FS road 210. From Tellico Plains take Hwy 165 (Cherohala Skyway) about 5 miles where you bear right onto FS road 210 (Tellico River Road). From that point, it is about six miles to Bald River Falls.
Benton Falls
From Ocoee Scenic Byway (Highway 64) take FS Road 77 approximately 7.5 miles to Chilhowee recreation Area (McCamy Lake). There is a $3 day use fee.
Coker Creek Falls
Coker Creek Falls is a series of waterfalls varying from 5 feet to 45 feet. From Hwy 68 in Coker Creek, turn right onto Ironsburg Road (County Road 628) and proceed approximately .25 miles. Turn left onto Duckett Ridge Road (FS Road 22) and proceed approximately 3.52 miles. Turn left onto FS Road 2138 and it goes steeply downhill for approximately 0.92 miles to the trailhead parking lot.
Conasauga Creek Falls
Cherokee National Forest trail 170. From Tellico Plains, TN Travel South on TN-68 2.9 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 341 and go approximately 2.33 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 341A and go approximately .54 miles to the trail head of CNF trail 170.
CNF trail 170 is 1 miles round trip, Moderate difficulty, and blazed in white. (Signs are posted.)
Fall Branch Falls
Approximately 1.5 miles from the Cherohala Skyway on CNF trail 87. Travel onto TN-165 E Cherohala Skyway 20.9 miles Take trail head FS Trail 87.
FS Trail 87 is 2.6 miles round trip, Moderate to Difficult in difficulty. This trail starts on an old road bed. Then it cuts right, down a very steep hill. Not a good trail for those not in good shape.
Gee Creek Falls
From Hwy 411 in Delano, TN, turn onto Gee Creek Road (mountain side of highway). Cross over railroad tracks and bear right. Travel about 2.0 miles. Paved road becomes dirt road ending at the TN State Park Trail 191 trailhead parking area.
Round trip hike less than 2.0 miles. Rated easy.
Goforth Falls
From the Ocoee Ranger District travel east on U.S. 64 approximately 5.8 miles to FS Road 186 on the left. Very little parking.
Hike up FS Road 186 approximately 0.14 miles. Easy.
Holder Cove
From Tellico Plains take Cherohala Skyway, Highway 165 approximately 8 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 210 (Tellico River Road) and go approximately 13 miles arriving at Holder Cove Campground. Trail to falls is at west end of campground on right hand side of road across from the restrooms.
Trail is less than .25 miles on an Easy trail. Trailhead is not marked and you must look for it between trees.
Lowry Falls
CNF trail 168, other cascades along the trail. From Hwy 411/Hwy 30 junction near Reliance, travel east about 2.2 miles on Hwy 30. Park at Taylor’s Island parking lot on left side of road. Walk on Hwy 30 about 0.15 miles. Sign for trailhead for FS Trail 168 is located on right side of road.
The area provides the hiker views of the waterfalls, rock bluffs, and rhododendron thickets. Short hike about 0.4 round trip. Rated moderate / difficult.
Middle Double Creek
From Vonore travel south approximately 13.4 miles on TN 360 S and turn left onto Chestnut Valley Road (County Road 504) for approximately 1.6 miles. Turn left onto Buck Highway (County Road 506) and travel approximately 3.4 miles to Citico Creek Road (FS Road 35-1). Turn right onto Citico Creek Road (FS Road 35-1) and travel approximately 6.6 miles to Double Camp Road. Turn left onto Double Camp Road and travel approximately 1.3 miles. The series of three cascades is on the right of the road. The coordinates is for the middle cascade.
Rock Creek Gorge
From the Ocoee Ranger Station turn left onto U.S. Highway 64 and travel 2.23 miles to TN Highway 30. Turn left onto TN Highway 30. Clemmer Trailhead South and FS Trail 78 will be on the left. Roadside parking is on the right.
FS Trail 78 is approximately 3.4 miles round trip, moderate in difficulty, and blazed with a white dot. It takes you into the Rock Creek Gorge Scenic area, known for its waterfalls.
Torino Falls
From Tellico Plains take Cherohala Skyway, Highway 165 approximately 8 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 210 (Tellico River Road) and go approximately 9.83 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 126 (Bald River Road) and go approximately 6.42 miles to the south trailhead of FS Trail 88. Cross the bridge over Little Cove Branch and the parking area is on the right.
FS Trail 88 trailhead is on the right side of the road prior to the bridge. The waterfall is approximately .22 miles up FS Trail 88.
Turtle Town Falls
From the Farner Post Office travel north on TN Hwy 68 approximately 0.5 miles. Turn left onto Duggan Road. Travel approximately 0.6 miles. Turn right onto Old Farner Road (County Road 2317) and go approximately 0.5 miles. Turn right onto FS Road 1166. Follow the dirt road for approximately 1.5 miles down to FS Trail 185. The trailhead is located at the parking lot.
Three miles round trip and rated moderate to difficult. Blazed with a white dot.