Local Attractions
Located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest, this area offers a number of attractions for the fisherman, to the thrill seeker, the historian to the plant enthusiast year round.
- River Sports
- The Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers offer rafting opportunities from the leisure cruiser to the thrill seeker.
- Fishing for the novice to the most experienced fisherman. The Hiwassee River is an excellent Trout fishery for fly fishing; spin fishing or simple bait fishing.
- Rafting is a very popular pastime. There are 3 rafting companies locally that offer multi-person unguided rafts for a day of fun for the entire family or just leisurely drifting down the river observing the majestic mountain view.
- Hiking in the Cherokee National Forest. There are several access points to the John Muir and Benton MacKaye Trails here that offer everything for the day hiker to the multi-day backpacking experience.
- Bike Riding on and off road. This area of the Cherokee National Forest has over 100 miles of designated off road biking trails and the road bike conditions are very good.
- Horseback riding is commonly done on Stars Mountain with several access point and excellent facilities to care for your horses and parking your vehicle.
- Antiques and Local Crafts in the area. There are numerous treasures to be found in the small towns and crossroads in the area.
- Historical sites: There are many historical building throughout the area. They range in ages from 100-125 years of age and the buildings are still standing. A great tribute to the craftsmen that once lived in the mountains here. Higgdon hotel: 1899, Vaughn-Webb house: 1899, School house (Masonic lodge, church, town meeting center) 1899, Watchman’s house (built by railroad) 1891.
- Camping: : With all 5 camp sites located alongside Childers Creek.
- Wildlife, Birds, Butterflies and Blooms: Eagles, Ospreys and King Fishers are frequently observed along the Hiwassee River.
- Rock Climbing & Repelling: Stars Mountain, Chilhowee Recreational Area on Benton Mountain.
- Picnicking; Towee Creek, Taylor’s Island, Hood Mountain Overlook, Pine Thicket Picnic Area.
- Motorcycle Riding: Riding the back roads throughout the Cherokee National Forest from the Ocoee River to the Cherohala Skyway. There are a number of beautiful routes including the Ocoee Scenic Byway, The Hiwassee River Road and the Tellico River Rd.
- Train Adventures: There are a number of train riding options throughout the area that include day trips along side the Hiwassee to Copperhill, Blue Ridge to Copperhill and The Smokey Mountain Railway.
