Hiwassee River

Convenient to Chattanooga and Knoxville

Located under an hour from Chattanooga and under two hours from Knoxville, the Hiwassee River is a fantastic location for a weekend getaway or full-time home. Both cities offer a variety of attractions, restaurants, shops, and schools.

The Chattanooga Airport and McGhee Tyson Airport are convenient for air travelers. There are multiple facilities for medical care, including Parkridge East Hospital and Turkey Creek Medical Center.

Drift All Day

Featuring rapids, gentle currents, and still water, the Hiwassee River is famous for its variety of water activities. During summer, tubing, rafting, and kayaking are the most popular pastimes. The rapids only get to classes I and II, so it is gentle enough to bring the kids along.

The middle section of the Hiwassee, passing through Charleston and Calhoun, is much like a lake. The calm waters are popular among boaters, water skiers, and anglers.

The Charleston Boat Ramp is convenient for putting in your watercraft of choice. Anglers can catch well-sized trout, bass, bluegill, and crappie. If relaxing is your thing, you can tan from a float or watch the action from the shore.

Venturing Out

The Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, a 6,000-acre plot of land in the center of the river, is next to Dayton, Tennessee. The island flourishes with wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. In the winter, it is a resting place for whooping and sandhill cranes on their way south.

The island is open for waterfowl hunting from Thursday to Sunday of the season. There is a drawing each October to see who will have access to its duck blinds.

There is much to see beyond the nature reserve. Wooded hillsides, hidden coves, and sandy shores border the emerald waters.

Explore Chattanooga

Twice named Outside Magazine’s “Best Town Ever,” Chattanooga is a fun adventure for every family member.

The “Scenic City” features attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, Creative Discovery Museum, and many more.

The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a thrill ride that winds down a wooded hillside. The non-motorized carts allow for a smooth ride for singles and doubles.

Explore Knoxville

Knoxville is a great weekend getaway at under two hours away. While visiting, there is an abundance of things for residents to do.

The Knoxville Zoo is one very popular attraction. Here, guests can see a variety of exotic animals, including red pandas and Malayan Tigers.

Another popular attraction is the Star of Knoxville Riverboat. Here, guests can take a riverboat tour with beautiful sights, enjoy an on-deck dinner, and even host parties.

A Wonderful Place to Call Home

Boasting picturesque landscapes and a wealth of outdoor activities, the Hiwassee River is an astounding location for life on the water.