Hiwassee River Gorge
The Hiwassee River is a State Scenic River and offers Class I-III rapids that are suitable for the whole family.
Local outfitters rent rafts and tubes and provide shuttle service to the put-in. The first 5.5 miles of the river flow through the Cherokee National Forest and the last half mile is a river valley with farmland and homes.
General Information
Life jackets are required at all times while boating or floating on the Hiwassee River. Alcohol is prohibited as are glass containers. If fishing, please be aware of Tennessee State fishing regulations. Visit Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for more information.
$3.00/vehicle day use fees apply at Towee Creek Launch and the Apalachia Powerhouse.
Getting There
Directions
The Hiwassee River is located in Polk county, east of Cleveland, TN and west of the North Carolina state line. From Cleveland take US 64 east for 7 1/2 miles to Hwy. 411. Go north on 411 for 13 miles to Hwy. 30 and turn right. Hwy. 30 runs along the south side of the river to Reliance. Hwy. 315 turns left and crosses the river and the railroad tracks. Turn right on Childers Creek Road and then right again at the next road. Forest Service 108 forks to the right, crosses Hood Mountain and drops back down beside the river.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
