Featuring the Outdoor Sports, Events and Attractions of Monroe County and Surrounding Counties in Tennessee Mountain Country. www.advocateanddemocrat.com
Spring 2013
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Advertising Team: Sharon Livingston Advertising Manager admanager@advocateanddemocrat.com
Tommy Millsaps Editor editor@advocateanddemocrat.com
Lauren Howard Sales Representative Sweetwater & Vonore lauren.howard@advocateanddemocrat.com
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Donna & Pete Marrs 501 North Main Street • Sweetwater, TN Inside Picket Fence Galleries
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609 E. North Street Sweetwater, TN. 37874 Phone: (423) 337-7101 4511 Highway 411 • Unit 5 Madisonville, TN 37354 Phone: (423) 442-4575 www.advocateanddemocrat.com
Kristen Calhoun kristen.calhoun@advocateanddemocrat.com
Peggy Harrill Sales Representative Madisonville & Tellico Plains peggy.harrill@advocateanddemocrat.com
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published in the Tennessee Mountain Traveler. No reproduction may be made without written permission of the publisher.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Welcome to Tennessee Mountain Traveler Country!
Contents
Spring 2013
Featuring the Outdoor Sports, Events and Attractions of Monroe County and Surrounding Counties in Tennessee Mountain Country. www.advocateanddemocrat.com
Spring 2013
On the Cover
The Advocate & Democrat is proud to produce the Tennessee Mountain Traveler three times a year to showcase the many attractions in the region. This full-color tourism magazine is distributed to nearly 15,000 tourists throughout East Tennessee and North Carolina. Tennessee Mountain Traveler Country is a region blessed with rich heritage, friendly people, unmatched scenery and outdoor recreation with our lakes, rivers and mountains. From roaring waterfalls, world-class whitewater rafting and fly fishing to quiet mountain streams and peaceful lakes, you can do it all on the water here. Take a spin on our byways, carved through mile-high mountain peaks, or hike in the Cherokee National Forest. Come learn about the Cherokee Indian heritage as you travel through the Tennessee Overhill Region (Monroe, McMinn and Polk counties). Experience the unique antique shopping and dining experiences in Tennessee Mountain Traveler Country, including Madisonville, Sweetwater, Tellico Plains, Vonore, Lenoir City, Loudon, Athens, Etowah, Englewood, Dayton and others. Special thanks to the Tennessee Overhill Association, Monroe County Tourism Department, Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority, Graham County, N.C. Travel and Tourism and many others involved in this publication.
For more information about this publication, call 423-337-7101.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Tennessee Mountain Traveler Country offers rich scenery and outdoor recreation year round. This photo provided by the Tennessee Overhill showcases the rafting adventures available throughout the region during the spring and summer months.
4....................Upcoming Events 5.........................Parade of Flags 6............Tellico’s Square Dance 8......................................MooFest Strawberry Festival 10..........................Fort Loudoun Sequoyah Birthplace 12...........................The Lost Sea Sweetwater Valley Cheese Farm 13..........Downtown Sweetwater 14-15...Cherohala Skyway Map 16.................................Waterfalls 18..................Tail of the Dragon 19.............................Tellico Lake 20-21......................Scenic Rivers 22.......................................Hiking 24.......................North Carolina 26..................................Townsend
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Calendar of Events April 26 Monroe County’s Relay for Life
May 17 CASA Monroe’s Medley of Fun
June 1 MooFest in Athens
Held at Hiwassee College, this year’s cancer fundraising event begins at 6 p.m. on Friday night and continues until 6 a.m. on April 27. Contact: Shannon Moser at 423-8360084 or mosers66@gmail.com. Visit the website www.relayforlife.org or the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Relay-for-Life-of-MonroeCounty-Tennessee/305056956069 for more information.
On May 17 at 7 p.m., CASA Monroe will hold a Medley of Fun at the Tellico West Conference Center in Vonore. Medley of Fun is a comedy show, featuring dancing, live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a cash bar. Entertainment lineup includes Comedian Karen Mills, Lisa Patterson with Southern Star Band, Gary Bluemel, Morris McCurry, Bob Hurka, Suzanne Reno and Julia Misslin. Tickets are $30 per person in advance or $210 for a table of eight. Tickets at the door will be $35. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. To purchase tickets, call the CASA office at 423-442-2750 or Kathy Bluemel at 865-408-1381, or visit the website at casamonroe.org.
This annual event in downtown Athens features a variety of contests, live entertainment, Mayfield Dairy Farm tours and more. Visit www. nationalmoofest.com. See page 8 for more information.
May 3-4 Townsend Spring Festival and Old Timers Day Springtime celebration of bluegrass music with live concerts and music sessions, clogging, arts and crafts, Appalachian demonstrations, storytelling and more. Visit www.smokymountains.org. See page 26 for more information.
May 4-11 Strawberry Festival in Dayton Annual spring event in Dayton attracts large crowds The 8-day extravaganza is packed with events and activities. See page 8 for details.
May 16-19 Highway 11 Yard Sale The annual Yard Sale on Highway 11 is scheduled for May 16-19. Downtown Sweetwater will have lots of vendors.
May 16-19 Tellico Biker Rally Four days of music, bikers, and vendors. Karaoke during the day and live bands at night. Several competitions available. Contact 423-337-8390 or visit www.tellicobikerrally.com for more information.
May 19 2nd Annual Bridal Expo Come get ideas for weddings from specialized vendors. Held at the Legacy Springs Event Center in Madisonville from 1 to 5 p.m. Details TBA.
May 19 MACA presents the Glenn Miller Orchestra at Hiwassee College MACA presents the Glenn Miller Orchestra at the Barker Auditorium on the Hiwassee College campus at 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 423-442-3210 or visit www.monroearts.com.
May 25 Rockin’ the Docks Lenoir City’s annual Memorial Day Celebration held at the Lenoir City Park and Cove. Live music begins at 4 p.m. until the fireworks show at 10 p.m. Food vendors will be available. Visit www.rockinthedocks.com.
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June 14-July 26 Parade of Flags in Madisonville See page 5 for details.
June 29 (Tentative) Dance on the Square in Tellico Sponsored by the Tellico Plains Fire Department, the annual Dance on the Square showcases Appalachian square dancing, live music, children’s activities, vendors and more. See page 6 for details.
July 4 Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks in Sweetwater See page 13 for details.
July 4 Etowah’s Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration Enjoy this all-day celebration in downtown historic Etowah beginning at 7:30 a.m. with all-day entertainment and the best of the area’s food and crafts booths. The event climaxes with one of the largest firework displays in the region and and a big band performance that last until 11 p.m. This is Etowah’s biggest events of the year.
July 4 Comcast Fireworks Display The fireworks show is held at Athens Regional Park, weather permitting. For more information, contact 423-744-2704.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
June 14-July 26 Downtown Madisonville
Parade of Flags The annual Ken White Memorial Parade of Flags runs June 14-July 26 and is an anticipated event in Monroe County. Madisonville, located in the center of Monroe County, is the county seat and is easily accessible by Highway 68 and Highway 411. Madisonville comes alive with red, white and blue during this anticipated celebration each summer. The opening ceremony is held at 6 p.m. each year on Flag Day, June 14, at the Monroe County Courthouse in the center of town. You will not want to miss this patriotic display in the heart of the county. This Parade of Flags event memorializes Americans, either
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
in the military or any citizen, by flying an American flag during the week of July 4 in their honor. The flags are flown on the yard of the historic Courthouse and Madisonville City Hall. Each flag and pole, along with an identifying name plaque, is available for purchase from the Downtown Association for $25. For information, call Susan Saunders at 442-1975, Linda Hensley at 295-4151 or City Hall at 442-9416 and ask for Parade of Flags information. The event is a cooperative effort of the Downtown Madisonville Association, Monroe County and the City of Madisonville.
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Photo courtesy of the Charles Hall Museum
Keeping tradition alive in Tellico Plains
T
raditions grow strong in small towns like Tellico Plains. For the town that was founded on Independence Day in 1911, one tradition has withstood the test of time-the annual Square Dance/Dance on the Square. “Growing up as a child, I remember two things were certain around July,” said Tellico Plains Mayor Patrick Hawkins. “One was a trip to Witt and Dorothy Hollinghead’s gift shop to buy fireworks and second, was the traditional square dance in town.” Originally coordinated with the Wagon Train, the Square Dance was founded as a huge celebration of the establishment of the town, the Wagon Train and Independence Day. Former Mayor Charles Hall played a huge role in starting both the Wagon Train and the Square Dance tradition. Now, the event, which is the sole large fundraiser for the Tellico Plains Volunteer Fire Department, is anticipated by both locals and visitors. Hundreds of people flock to town square to hear live music from the gazebo and participate in old Appalachian square dancing throughout the night. Downtown businesses usually also remain open during the dance. This year’s annual Dance on the Square is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, June 29. For years like this year, when the holiday falls in the middle of the week, town officials usually set the event for the Saturday before the Fourth of July. Additional details on the event are TBA. For more information about the town of Tellico Plains, visit www.tellicoplains.com.
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Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Pulled Pork, Loaded Potatoes, Baby Back Ribs, Beef Brisket, Smoked Chicken, Smoked Chicken Salad
OPEN 7 Days A Week Philadelphia, Tennessee For more information 877-862-4332 www.sweetwatervalley.com email: info@sweetwatervalley.com
Madisonville, Tennessee The Hub of Monroe County
Monday-Thursday 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm • Sunday 11am-3pm GPS Coordinates: N 35° 22.127, W 084° 18.240
Find Us on Google Maps
9188 New Highway 68 • Tellico Plains
Voted Best BBQ in Monroe County!
423-253-2019
Mayor - Glenn Moser City Recorder - Alfred McClendon Board of Aldermen • Augustus Davis • Sherri McCrary • Bill Spradlin • Linda Hensley
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
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Holy cow! It’s almost time again to start pulling out your ice
cream scoops and milk jugs as the “udderly” fantastic MooFest returns to Athens, June 1. A day-long festival filled with good “moo-sic,” great hoofstomping fun and mouthwatering food, the 6th Annual National MooFest will be held in downtown Athens from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day. A special change has been made this year to the festival: FREE admission! A celebration of the dairy industry, MooFest brings into the national spotlight the Athens and McMinn County area, partic-
ularly with regard to the area’s agrarian heritage, with a wide range of dairy-themed games and events, among other exciting attractions. Vendors interested in participating can contact Rob Preston at 423-745-0334 or by e-mail at rob@nationalmoofest.com. The main sponsors are Chick-fil-A, Mayfield Dairy and McMinn County with tremendous help from the Athens Chamber of Commerce. Athens is located just south of Monroe County halfway between Knoxville and Chattanooga on Interstate 75 at Exit 49 or Exit 52. For more information, contact the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce or visit www.nationalmoofest.com.
From its humble begin-
nings in 1947 as a one-day festival sponsored by the Dayton Lions Club, the Tennessee Strawberry Festival in Rhea County has grown into a multiple-day extravaganza, jam-packed with a variety of activities sponsored by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce. This year’s event is May 4-11. For almost half a century, strawberry production was one of Rhea County’s principal industries. Production grew rapidly following the berry’s introduction in 1898, the same year the Weekly Herald, ancestor of The Dayton Herald and The Herald-News was started. At its height, the local crop produced about four million quarts of the luscious berries each year.
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Once known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World,” Rhea County’s strawberry production dwindled as the soil became exhausted of vital nutrients. By the time the Lions Club decided to start the festival, local farmers were switching to other cash crops. But the festival itself still remains. The festival’s timing in mid spring usually assures great weather. For more information, visit: www.daytontnchamber.org
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Gibson Shoe Store Andrews, NC Open 9am-6pm Monday-Saturday
Factory Return Outlet
411 Cherohala Skyway • Tellico Plains Elizabeth Hannan and Dave Fankhauser will help you find your dream property in beautiful East Tennessee.
Bringing Health Care Home to Monroe County
T
he Blount Memorial Health Center at Tellico West in Vonore makes it easy for Monroe County residents to get the expert health care services they need. Whether you are searching for a family doctor, require in-home skilled nursing care or need physical therapy, Blount Memorial is here – in Monroe County – to help.
Available services include: Business Health (occupational health
services for business and industry), 423-884-6958 Counseling and CONCERN (individual, couple and family counseling), 423-884-1945
Family Medicine at Tellico West (children, teens, adults and seniors), 423-884-6958
Home Services (physician-ordered, skilled care and related home health services), 423-884-1941
Hospice and Palliative Care
(compassionate, end-of-life care including symptom management and support), 865-977-5702
Total Rehabilitation at Tellico West (pediatric, adult and geriatric services including orthopedic and aquatic therapies), 423-884-1901
Health Center Tellico West
www.blountmemorial.org
$EER #ROSSING s 6ONORE 4.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
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History comes alive! in Vonore Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, located on
Highway 360, is owned and operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Its mission is to promote appreciation of the history and culture of the Cherokee Indians in Eastern Tennessee, particularly the life and contributions of Sequoyah. Born more than 200 years ago, Sequoyah created a writing system that, within months of its introduction, enabled thousands of Cherokee to
read and write in their own language. The museum features video, electronic displays and exhibits from periods of Cherokee occupation of the Tennessee Overhill area. A gift shop is also located inside the museum. Sequoyah is also home to a Cherokee burial site, an open-air amphitheater, a reconstruction of Sequoyah’s blacksmith shop, a shoreline trail, and boat dock. For more information, call 423-884-6246 or visit www.sequoyahmuseum.org.
Fort Loudoun State Historic Area F
ort Loudoun, located on Highway 360 in Vonore, is a reconstruction of the original fort, in service from 1756-1760. The original site was buried 17 feet below the reconstruction to preserve it when the Tennessee Valley Authority closed Tellico Dam on the Little Tennessee River in 1979. Fort Loudoun was originally constructed during the French and Indian War (1754-1763) to counter the threat of French activity in the Mississippi Valley. The fort was also ideally located to ensure continued trade between the Cherokee and South Carolina and to strengthen relations between the British and the Overhill Cherokee Nation. Unfortunately, it was the deterioration of that relationship that led to the surrender of the fort. In August 1760, the Cherokee captured Fort Loudoun. Fort Loudoun routinely returns to life with dedicated staff and re-enactors on garrison, or re-enactment, weekends. Garrison Weekend is a time when the daily lives of the men, women and children of Fort Loudoun are recreated for the public. Park visitors will find living history re-enactors in costume at the Fort. Visitors can view an 18th century infirmary, the soldiers’ barracks, the commanders’ quarters, blacksmith shop and a Cherokee encampment. Upcoming Garrison weekend is May 4-5. For more information, call Fort Loudoun State Historic Area at 423-884-6217 or visit online at www.fortloudoun.com.
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Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Raingear • Apparel • Gear • Helmets
Dear Visitor, Are you interested in learning more about Tellico Plains and the Monroe County area in general? What better way is there to obtain information than by subscribing to the local paper? The Advocate & Democrat’s news coverage includes four municipalities in Monroe County: Madisonville, Sweetwater ,Tellico Plains, and Vonore as well as the surrounding areas. We’ll let you know of upcoming events in Coker Creek and at Fort Loudoun. We’ll offer you Real Estate ads from Chestnut Valley to Paint Rock. And we’ll bring you feature stories from Rural Vale to Rarity Bay. We print two times each week: Sunday and Wednesday. Subscriptions to be mailed outside Monroe County are only $7.50 per month with the coupon below. To subscribe, just clip the coupon below and return it along with your payment to:
The Advocate & Democrat • Subscription Department P.O. Box 389 • Sweetwater, TN 37874
Yes, I’d like to learn more about Monroe County. Start my subscription for the term indicated. My payment is enclosed. 3 Months - $24 6 Months - $48 12 Months - $90
(Save $6.00 with a full year subscription)
The Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Town Square 106-A Scott St., Tellico Plains 423-253-2088 Across from Downtown Creamery
tellicomoto.com
Check or Money Order Enclosed. (It’s not a good idea to send cash in the mail) Name: _____________________________ Phone: _________________ Address: ___________________________________________________ Please Charge my ____________________ (All major CC’s accepted) Acct # ___________________________________________________ Exp. Date: ____________________ V# (3 digit on back) ___________ Yes, I am interested in advertising in the Tennessee Mountain Traveler. Please send advertising information to the following location. Name: _____________________________ Phone: _________________ Address: ___________________________________________________
Shop. Dine. Play. Whether you spend an hour or the whole day in Historic Downtown Sweetwater, we are sure you will enjoy discovering all that we have to offer and will find yourself returning to our wonderful town again and again!
www.visitsweetwater.com Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
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Tunneling underground T
he Lost Sea, America’s largest underground lake, is the huge tourist attraction in Monroe County, welcoming more than 180,000 visitors a year. The cave, which stays a constant 58 degrees, was actually owned by a Cherokee chief by the name of Chief Craighead. Because of The Lost Sea’s history, it was named a Civil War Trail Marker. In the early 1860s, the Lost Sea caverns were known as the Great Craighead Cave. A date of 1863 can be found on the cave walls. The date has been carbon tested and proved to be authentic. It was probably put there from the carbon of a confederate soldier’s torch. It is the oldest known date in the cave. In 1905, a 13-year-old boy named Ben Sands wiggled through a tiny, muddy opening 300 feet underground and found himself in a huge room half filled with water. The room was so large that his light was swallowed up by the darkness long before reaching the far wall or the ceiling. The Lost Sea opened as a public, commercial attraction in June of 1965. The Wild Cave Tour started in the 1970s. The tour involves a several hour caving tour and an opportunity to spend the night in the cave. Cavern tours at Lost Sea are also open every day but Christmas Day. The hours vary with the season. The Lost Sea is located on New Highway 68, just outside of Sweetwater. There are several gift shops at the location. Visit www.thelostsea.com or call 423 337-6616 for more information.
Mooooving on up W
hat began as a small dairy farm in 1987 has grown into a cheese-making, farm-touring, awe-inspiring adventure in the heartland of East Tennessee.
Located in Philadelphia in south Loudon County, Sweetwater Valley Farm has made a name for itself by producing quality cheese from cows right on the farm, the only dairy in Tennessee to do so. Walking excursions on the farm allow families and groups to witness cows in their natural habitat. The walking tour passes the feed bins, where an all-youcan-eat buffet is created for the herd. Next, the adventure moves to the calf barn, past the mature cows, and then on to the milking parlor. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.
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The Udder Story barn features farm exhibits and hands-on material for people of all ages. Items can be purchased in the shop for mementos and consumption. To reach Sweetwater Valley Farm, take Interstate 75 to Exit 68. The farm is located off Highway 11 about one mile from the Monroe and Loudon County line. For more information, contact Sweetwater Valley Farm at 877-862-4332 or visit www.sweetwatervalley.com.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Downtown Sweetwater
Hot sun,
beating down H
istoric downtown Sweetwater is an antique lover’s paradise featuring large antique malls and quaint antique shops that are sure to please all antique enthusiasts. Each antique store has its own personality and flavor; therefore, if you don’t find what you are looking for in one shop, you will more than likely find it in another. A small sampling of the antique stores’ offerings include fine period furniture, country primitive furniture and accessories, transferware china, toleware, depression glassware, sterling and silver-plate, and quality pottery. In addition to the wonderful antique stores, downtown Sweetwater is home to unique gift stores, ladies fine clothing, and quality local cafes. All shops and cafes are centrally located around the memorial garden and gazebo in the heart of downtown. Parking is plentiful in front of shops or in nearby parking lots. Sweetwater’s downtown, with easy
access off Interstate 75 between Chattanooga and Knoxville, has undergone dramatic renewal during the past decade and is home to several parades and celebrations year around, including an Independence Day Parade and Celebration that culminates with fireworks each July 4. There will be a 5K run at 8 a.m. on July 4 this year starting at the downtown gazebo. Registration is now open for the race is online at: http://www.active.com/ running/sweetwater-tn/ run-for-god---independence-day-5k2013. Sweetwater hosts the National Muscadine Festival on the last full weekend of September and is one of the few towns to still have a Veterans Day Parade each November.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Christmas is a fantastic time of year in Sweetwater with the annual A Small Town Christmas held downtown on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and a large Christmas Parade just days later. Visit www.visitsweetwater.com for additional information.
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Monroe Co. Tellico River Visitor Center 920 ft. at Sweetwater
Oosterneck Creek 1,045 ft. Overlook and boating takeout on the Tellico River. When the water is up, the Tellico River, with it’s Class III, IV, V, rapids, is quite a challenge for canoeists and kayakers.
Caney Branch 1,370 ft.
Tellico Plains
68
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Tellico Ranger Station
Tellico River 950 ft. The Tellico River is famous for its trout fishing.
Coker Creek Welcome Center
Tennessee Emergency Information Cherokee National Forest Tellico Ranger Station 250 Ranger Station Road Tellico Plains, TN 37385 (423) 253-8400 Ducktown, TN
Sheriffs Department Monroe County, TN (423) 442-3911
The wilderness areas surrounding the Cherohala Skyway are beautiful and alluring, but not necessarily suited for everyone to explore. As a visitor to wilderness, you should be aware that you are Eagle Gap Trailhead entering a primitive environment. 3,600 ft. You will face the challenge of Grassy Gap Trailhead being entirely self-sufficient–no 3,400 ft. trail signs, no restrooms, no water spigots. Some people may just rather drive by, enjoy the Spirit Ridge 4,950 ft. d view, and visit more developed trails and recreation areas. Take a leisurely stroll (about 3/10th of a mile) East Rattlesnake Rock 4,110 ft. along an easy grade Unicoi Crest 4,470 ft. d through a northern Brushy Ridge hardwood forest to a Stratton Ridge 3,750 ft. d fabulous vista overlooking 4,420 ft. Overlooking Sassafras West This is a perfect place to the Byway and a seemingly Ridge and other major Rattlesnake Rock Trailhead stretch, enjoy a picnic endless range of mountains. ridges running south State Line 4,000 ft. lunch (5 tables), or use The trail is accessible for down to the Tellico (Beech Gap 4,490 ft.) the restroom facilities. A the physically challenged River. bulletin board provides and two picnic tables are additional information easily accessed from the Mud Gap Trailhead parking lot. about the Skyway. 4,480 ft.
Weather Conditions Important to consider before traveling the Skyway. Snow is common from mid November through mid Aprilespecially in the higher elevations. Note: The Cherohala Skyway is a State maintained road, with the amenities maintained by the US Forest Service. For each state, please contact the appropriate Sheriffs Department for road conditions and the appropriate Forest Service Ranger Station for recreation information.
Obadiah 3,740 ft. d Listen carefully to the sound of Santeetlah Creek far below while enjoying the mountain vista offered at this scenic overlook.
Haw Knob Slopes 4,890 ft.
Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center 225 Cherohala Skyway Tellico Plains, TN 37385 423-253-8010 Coker Creek Welcome Center 12197 New Hwy 68 Coker Creek, TN 37314 423-261-2286
Big Junction 5,240 ft. d
Hooper Cove 3,100 ft. d This open area with a view into the Santeetlah Creek drainage offers a perfect spot for a picnic lunch (four tables).
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Wright Cove 4,150 ft. Huckleberry 5,300 ft.
Santeetlah 5,390 ft. Over a mile-high in elevation, enjoy a picnic (3 tables) at the highest overlook along the Skyway.
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Whigg Cove 4,570 ft.
Bald River Falls Located on Forest Service Road 210, you can view Bald River Falls without leaving your car as water cascades over 100 feet onto the rocks below. Further along the road you may be interested in visiting the State operated trout hatchery.
b Cell phone coverage along the Cherohala Skyway is very sporadic. There is a public phone at the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center. Above Indian Boundary there is some cell phone coverage.
Lake View 3,360 ft. d A perfect place to enjoy distant views of Tellico Lake. This lake was created from TVA dams of the Little Tennessee River.
Wheel Chair Accessible Fishing Picnic Tables Hiking Canoeing Camping Cell Phone Coverage
Hooper Bald Trailhead 5,290 ft. d A quarter-mile hike leads to Hooper Bald, near the site of the old hunting preserve where many exotic species, including the Russian boar, were imported by George Moore in 1908. An information board, restrooms, and two picnic tables are easily accessed from the parking lot.
w w w. a d v o c a t e a n d d e m o c r a t . c o m
Shute Cove 3,550 ft. d A quiet picnic can be enjoyed at the one table available at this pullover. A few steps to the small wooden platform presents a beautiful view into the valley below.
il
Turkey Creek 2,630 ft. Overlook with 3 picnic tables and Restroom. Beautiful view from the Appalachians over the Tennessee River Valley. Tellico Plains can be seen in the distance.
Charles Hall Museum
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b
Visitor Center
Information Station Bulletin board welcomes visitors with general information about the Skyway and Tellico Ranger District.
;Sa_Ia
a n’s T
The Tellico River has been the scene of human occupation for I-75 12,000 years. For much of this time it was the domain of Native 11 Americans. From at least 1650 AD, the Cherokee Indians Sweetwater resided here. Madisonville After the Cherokee Removal in 1838, the area was opened for 411 Euro-American settlement. Tellico, “tel-li--quo” means “plains” in Cherokee. Cherohala Skyway
+ 0 - : 7 0 ) 4 )
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest In 1936, an extraordinary 3,800 acres of “one of the few remaining tracts of virgin hardwood in the Appalachians” was set aside as a memorial forest in honor of Joyce Kilmer. Kilmer, a poet, journalist, and World War I soldier killed in action, is best remembered for his poem, “Trees.” This impressive forest contains some of the finest timber grown in these mountains with many huge trees over 20 feet around the base and more than a hundred feet high. A 2-mile loop trail winds beneath the towering trees and through a forest carpeted by a rich variety of wildflowers, ferns, and moss-covered logs from the fallen giants. The Memorial Forest, also part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness, can only be seen on foot.
d Photo Site
o Drag
Indian Boundary Campground b Just off the scenic Skyway on Forest Service Road 345. Offering 100 campsites as well as day use picnicking, swimming and biking. Open April-September. Reservations are recommended. Call the Tellico Ranger Station or the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center for information.
Restrooms (no water)
Vonore
Horse Cove Campground
Rattler Ford Group Campground (By reservation through the Cheoah Ranger Station) To Robbinsville and the Cheoah Ranger Station
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Santeetlah Gap 2,660 ft. A bulletin board provides information about the Cherohala Skyway.
North Carolina Emergency Information Nantahala National Forest Cheoah Ranger Station Rt. 1, Box 16-A Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 479-6431 Sheriffs Department Graham County, NC (828) 479-3352
Robbinsville, NC
To C hat tan oog a
w w w. m o n ro e c o u n t y . c h e ro h a l a . o r g
Fall in Love
Bald River Falls
with our falls
People are drawn to Southeast Tennessee from near and far to explore
the beautiful natural landscapes of the Tennessee Overhill region, a three-county area that includes the southern half of the Cherokee National Forest. One of the major draws to this area is the many waterfalls located throughout the forest. There are more than 50 waterfalls ranging from five feet to 130 feet high.
Bald River Falls The spectacular 90-foot Bald River Falls (GPS: 35° 19.44’N, 84° 10.357’W) can be seen from the bridge on Forest Service Road 210 (a paved road just a few miles from Tellico Plains). Have your camera handy, because a photo from the bridge with the falls behind you will be one of your trip’s favorites.
Benton Falls Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area, Benton Falls (GPS: 35° 8.428’N, 84° 35.766’W) is a 65-foot waterfall cascading down step-like rocks. The three-mile round-trip hike is rated easy/moderate.
From Ocoee Scenic Byway (Highway 64), take Forest Service Road 77 to Chilhowee Recreation Area ($3 day use fee).
Coker Creek Falls Forty-five foot Coker Creek Falls (GPS: 35° 11,835’N, 84° 22.217’W) with a series of waterfalls/ cascades ranging from eight feet to 20 feet high is a kayaker’s and photographer’s favorite. Stop at Coker Creek Welcome Center/Post Office on Highway 68 to get directions. The hike is around three miles but you don’t need to make the entire trip to see a waterfall. The hike is rated easy/moderate.
Turtletown Falls Turtletown Falls (GPS 35° 9.834’N, 84° 21.166’W) is 40 feet high and flows over a large ledge then separates into two falls. A bonus waterfall, Lower Turtletown Falls, may be seen if you hike a little further downstream from the main falls. On Highway 68, turn
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at Farner Post Office, cross the railroad and turn left on Duggan Road, bear left on Farner Road entrance to the falls, Forest Service Road 1166, is the first road on the right. Follow the dirt road for 1.5 miles down to the fall’s parking lot. The trail is three miles roundtrip and rated easy/ moderate.
Fall Branch Falls Falls Branch Falls (GPS: 35° 21.287’N, 84° 3.864’’W) is an 80-foot waterfall located off the National Scenic Byway, the Cherohala Skyway (Highway 165). At the Rattlesnake Rock parking area, hike about 100 feet (take the left fork) to the Falls Branch Trail 87. Once at the falls, follow the creek downstream to see cascades. The roundtrip is about a three-mile moderate hike.
The Tennessee Overhill Association (TOHA) has directions to waterfalls in the southern Cherokee National Forest. For more information, call 877-510-5765 or visit the Cherokee National Forest website www.fs.usda.gov/cherokee.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
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www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 17
Do you dare tangle with The Tail of the Dragon? T
by Ronald E. Johnson
he Tail of the Dragon, also known as Deals Gap or just the Dragon, is one of the world’s premier motorcycling and sports car roads. Anyone looking for an exciting piece of asphalt will enjoy this stretch of U.S. 129 at the Tennessee/North Carolina state line. The Dragon has a notorious past. The first white men to use the trail were hunters and trappers who clashed with the Cherokee Indians in the early 1700s. In the 1800s the path became a crude roadway used to access the remote settlement of Cades Cove. The Civil War brought more bloodshed to the Dragon. Gangs, such as the Kirkland Bushwhackers, often attacked Northern patrols and anyone else who happened their way. There are graves on the Dragon dating back to this era. Toll Booth Corner, located about midway over the Dragon, was a place to pay to cross private property. There were meager sleeping quarters for guests to spend the night. Some who tried to cross without paying the toll were caught and hanged. There are ghosts on the Dragon. The road, paved in the 1920s, was only lightly traveled for decades, primarily by locals and lost tourists. In 1992, the road was mentioned in Rider Magazine and word was out. The Tail of the Dragon gained popularity after our website TailoftheDragon.com went online in 2000. There is always a show from April through October. We have seen everything from one-of-a-kind vintage motorcycles to 253-mph Bugatti Veyrons with more than 1,000 horse power and worth millions. The Dragon is truly a unique road. In 14 miles, there are only two intersections. There are no buildings other than the Crossroads of Time and our Tail of the Dragon store. There are 318 curves in the 11 miles located on the Tennessee side. Most of the roadway is bounded by United States Forest Service property and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Deals Gap, located at the North
Carolina and Tennessee State Line, is the highest point on the Dragon at 1,962 feet above sea level. To those coming from the North Carolina side, the Dragon begins at Fugitive Bridge with a view of the Cheoah Dam where Harrison Ford jumped in the movie “The Fugitive” in 1993. It ends 14 miles across
11 TABCAT BRIDGE 11.1 ROCKET CORNER 10.2
BEGINNERS END 10.7
the mountain at the Tabcat Creek Bridge in Tennessee. Three other movies have been filmed along this road. “Thunder Road” and “Two-Lane Blacktop” were filmed on the Dragon. Part of “In Dreams” (1998) with Annette Bening was filmed at Tapoco Dam and Calderwood Dam.
Great Smoky
REVENUER’S Mountains National Park STRAIGHT 10.4 THE WHIP 10 LEO’S SHAW 10.0 HOG LAIR AKA GRAVE PEARLY PEN LITTLE GAP COPPERWHIP GATES HEAD BEND 6.5 9.5 CAT TAIL RON’S 7.5 CORNER 7.3 5.8 STRAIGHT RUN 6 Parsons 8.4 TO 8.8 KILLBOY 7.8 7.5 Branch SHADETREE Road PARSONS CORNER 9 GUARD MUD SWIFT CURVE 4.8 CORNER CORNER 4.0 8 RAIL 7 CLIFF WAY TER 6.4 TAIL OF THE 4.2 5 DALTON ONE IN 7.2 DRAGON GRACES 4 ESSES LOSED IN W OVERLOOK TRIPLE 3.1 C PICNIC ESSES 8.8 APEX 6.8 TABLE Gate 3 CORNER 7.1 BRAKE 3.0 8.1 OR BUST CAROSEL BUSA THE HUMP AKA CORNER BEND GRAVITY CAVITY BASH 4.9 5.3 2.9 4.3 THUNDER MINIROAD HUMP BEND 2.8 3.6 2 THE CHICANES SUNSET CORNER 2.2 to 2.7 2.2 THE WALL COOPER STRAIGHT 1.4 .5 CRUD 1 CORNER .2 THE DIPS BEGINNERS 1.1 TO 1.3 0 END .0 WHEELIE HELL TAIL DRAGON STORE
DEALS GAP STATE LINE CROSSROADS OF TIME 28
WATERFALL CORNER STRATTON STRAIGHT FUGITIVE THE BRIDGE SLIDE
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TAPOCO LODGE Cheoah River
Tail of the Dragon, LLC 2000-2013
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nch Rd
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Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Sailor’s delight
F
ort Loudoun State Historic Area and Sequoyah Birthplace Museum share an island that was created by the damming of the Little Tennessee River. The Tellico Dam was completed and the impoundment of the “Little T� took place in 1979. There was controversy over the Tellico Dam as opponents fought the proposed dam on a number of fronts that included property rights, destruction of historic and Native American sites and the impact on the endangered snail darter. Judicial decisions resulted in the halt of the project. However, legislative action exempted the Tellico Project from the Endangered Species Act and Tellico Lake was born. The lake is approximately 15,000 acres in surface area. There are a number of boat ramps and marinas servicing the Tellico Lake area.
WELCOME TO MONROE COUNTY
179 Tellico Reliance Road Reliance, TN 37369
423-338-8500 Cell 423-519-6081 www.hiwasseeangler.com steve@hiwasseeangler.com
GUIDE SERVICE s &ULL $AY (ALF $AY 4RIPS s 4ROUT 3MALLMOUTH 2OCK &ISH s 7ADE OR &LOAT 4RIPS s #USTOM 4RIPS !VAILABLE s &LY &ISHING #LASSES
Meigs County Tourism 0 / "OX s $ECATUR 4. s (423)
Cherokee Removal Memorial Park Visitor’s Center 339-2769 Open Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
334-5850
“Get Hooked On Meigs County� For Watts Bar Lake Activities Call The Chamber At 423-334-5496
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
A Great Place to Work & Live
MONROE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Shan Harris, Director 103 College Street South, Suite 6 Madisonville, TN 37354 423-442-3652 Mobile: 423-519-3369 Email: shan.harris@monroegovernment.org www.monroeeconomicdevelopment.com www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 19
Four scenic rivers, four different experiences
E
ach year more than two million people visit the Cherokee National Forest with its spectacular scenery and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Each year thousands will cool off in the refreshing rivers located throughout the Cherokee National Forest. There are four scenic rivers in the Tennessee Overhill Region (Monroe, Polk, McMinn counties) that visitors won’t want to miss: the Ocoee, Conasauga, Hiwassee and Tellico rivers. All four are within a short driving distance of each other and each one offers a different experience.
Ocoee River
The Ocoee River, with its Class III-IV whitewater rapids, draws more than 300,000 visitors each year for rafting, kayaking, camping, hiking, and mountain biking. Experienced kayakers and canoeists love the Ocoee, but novices can experience the whitewater too. Commercial rafting companies provide expert guides to allow the most inexperienced person to scream down the Ocoee and believe they did it themselves. There is an age limit - youngsters must be 12 years of age or older. The Ocoee Whitewater Center, built for the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Competition, is perched on the banks of the Ocoee River near Ducktown in Polk County. The Olympic Race Course is open for commercial rafting on scheduled days. The Tanasi Mountain Biking Trail System starts there too, with more than 30 miles of biking trails that appeal to families as well as seasoned riders. The Whitewater Center is also the site of what locals call the “Blue Holes.” These are
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pools of water that families enjoy for wading, dipping, and snorkeling. Getting There: The Ocoee River Recreation Area lies along U.S. Highway 64 between Ducktown and Ocoee.
Conasauga River
Located just a few miles south of the Ocoee River, the Conasauga is a crystal clear river surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest. Snorkelers can view tropical colored fish, schools of freshwater drum (some up to 10 pounds) and thousands of other fish at a designated fish viewing area. The great variety, colors and number of fish in the Conasauga River amaze even those who have snorkeled on marine coral reefs. According to visitor information distributed by the Cherokee National Forest Service, at least 39 species of fish have been identified in the viewing site and the number of species found in the Conasauga is higher than the entire Columbia River System. The fish are present year round in large numbers but the best time to see them at peak color is during late April through June, when no rain has fallen for several days. The water temperature in late spring is in the 60s (°F), therefore it is recommended that visitors wear a wet suit for warmth, flotation and protection from the rocks. The water temperature in July begins to reach 70°F and temperatures reaching more than 80°F occur in August. A snorkel, mask and water shoes are also recommended. Visit www.wildlifeviewingareas.com for detailed directions to the viewing site. Getting There: Located off Forest Service Road 221, south of Ocoee on U.S. Highway 411 just before Conasauga.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Tellico River
Just 30 minutes from the Hiwassee River is the pristine Tellico River, located just a few miles out of the quaint town of Tellico Plains. The river is surrounded by 30,000 acres of remote backcountry where the river rises from the Unicoi Mountain Range near the Tennessee/North Carolina state line and flows down through a mountain gorge before it reaches the broad plains at the town of Tellico Plains. The Tellico River is popular for kayakers when the water levels rise to Class III - IV rapids after a rainfall. For others, the river provides opportunities for swimming, picnicking, fishing, hiking, backpacking and wildlife viewing. The Tellico River is nationally recognized as a premier trout stream, renowned for brook, brown and rainbow trout. The trout is stocked March through August by the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA). The trout are raised for stocking the river at the Pheasant Field fish rearing pools which are open to the public and are located at the end of the Tellico River Road (Forest Service Road 210). The road is a favorite for photographers and people who enjoy scenic drives. It winds alongside the river. Bald River Falls, a nearly 100-foot waterfall, is located on the Tellico River and can be seen from the road. Getting There: From Tellico Plains, follow State Highway 165 (East) to Forest Service Road 210. The road follows the river.
Hiwassee River
An alternative to the fast moving water of the Ocoee River is the Scenic Hiwassee River, located about 6 miles north of the Ocoee. Ninety percent of the area around the river is surrounded by mountains, forested hill sides and pastoral river bottoms. Perhaps this is why the Cherokee Indians named the river Hiwassee meaning “a meadow place at the foot of the hills.” This wide river, which is part of the Tennessee Scenic River System, offers visitors an exceptional and peaceful setting for canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking and fishing. The river is classed as primarily Class I (moving water with small waves and few obstructions) with some Class II (easy rapids with wide, clear channels, some maneuvering required). Certain sections are considered Class III (rapids with high waves capable of swamping an open canoe, requires complex maneuvering). Local businesses rent rafts, funyaks and tubes. The Hiwassee River is known for excellent fishing where anglers try their hand at catching largemouth bass, yellow perch, catfish, and brown and rainbow trout. There is no fee for fishing on the river, but state fishing rules do apply. There are some parking areas along the Hiwassee River that require a parking fee. Commercial fly fishing guide services are available. Getting There: The Hiwassee Scenic River is accessible from U.S. Highway 411 and State Highway 30 (East) between Benton and Etowah.
For more information about summer fun and other things to do and see in the Tennessee Overhill, contact 1-877-510-5765 or visit tennesseeoverhill.com.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 21
Take a hike!
Big Frog Mountain • Hiking- Managed as a black bear reserve, Big Frog Mountain Recreation Zone is a destination for backpacking, day-hiking and hunting. The area offers about 35 miles of backcountry trails, some of which climb more than 4,000 feet. Hike Big Frog Trail #64 to the top of Big Frog Mountain. The steep climb tops out at more than 4,000 feet elevation. Group size is limited to 12 people in the Wilderness. Several trailheads give access to the Big Frog trail. This trail is part of the long distance to Benton MacKaye Trail. • Camping-Primitive tent camping is available at three campgrounds in the vicinity. Jacks River is across the road from the confluence of the Jacks and Conasauga Rivers. Tumbling Creek is within walking distance of Ocoee Lake, a portion of the Ocoee River. Sylco Campground is near the Big Frog Wilderness boundary.
Hiwassee River • Hiking- Spectacular forested hillsides and pastoral river valleys compliment the beauty of the Hiwassee River Gorge. Hike along scenic Hiwassee River on the John Muir National Recreation Trail #152, which is also part of the Benton MacKaye Trail. Try a short out-and-back hike from one of the trailheads or plan a back-country trip along this 20.7-mile trail. Trailheads
are located at Big Bend, Childers Creek and at the end of Forest Road 108. • Camping- Quinn Springs Recreation Area is located off Highway 30 near the river, where site amenities include tables, fire rings, showers and drinking water. Gee Creek State Park is located on the northern bank of the Hiwassee River and offers campsites with tables, fire rings, showers and drinking water, as well as a group camping area. Lost Creek Campground provides a more remote experience, located off Forest Road 103, with tables and fire rings, but no showers or drinking water.
Tellico River • Hiking- Nearly 30,000 acres of remote backcountry surround the Tellico and North River corridors. The Benton MacKaye Trail offers hiking opportunities and multiple trails connect the Cherohala Skyway with Tellico River Road. Indian Boundary Recreation Area boasts trail #129, an easy and popular 3.2 mile hike/bike trail skirting the edge of the lake. For a longer hike, try the six-mile Sycamore Creek Trail #163, a section of the Benton MacKaye Trail. Access the trail at Pheasant Fields on Tellico River Road. For up close views of the river, travel along the Tellico River Road (Forest Road 210). Stop to admire the area’s best known waterfall, 90-foot Bald River Falls.
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• Camping- If you are looking for a destination campground with modern facilities, try Indian Boundary Recreation Area. Located off the Cherohala Skyway, it has more than 90 campsites equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, lantern posts and electrical hook-ups, with easy access to drinking water, showers, flush toilet facilities and an on-site dump station.
Coker Creek • Hiking- Hike Coker Creek Falls Trail #183, a scenic 3.2 mile trek along the gorge in Coker Creek. View a series of deep, clear pools followed by cascading, stair step falls. Access the trail by Forest Road 2138 off County Road 22, or as a spur off John Muir National Recreation Trail #152. The Unicoi Turnpike Trail is a 2.5-mile section of one of the oldest known travel routes in North America. Historically, it served as a principal route from the Atlantic coast to the interior southeast. It became part of the Trail of Tears, the main route for the Cherokee removal of 1838. Interpretive panels along the way describe this historic trail. The trail can be accessed on Forest Road 40, off Highway 68 near Coker Creek.
For more information on trails in the area, visit www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
SPROUT ROOFING
Your Home, Your Investment. Before you hire a contractor...Talk with Us!
CHEROHALA SKYWAY VISITOR CENTER
Roofing • Green Roof • Siding Remodeling • Decks • Windows Gutters • Insulation • Ins Claims
www.SproutRoofing.com 440 Timberlinks Drive • Signal Moutain, TN 37377 423-886-1000 | Fax: 423-886-4000 | Cell: 423-883-1330
BERT’S
Hometown Grill & Pizzeria
CHARBROILED CHICKEN BURGERS HAND CUT STEAKS Est. 1987
902 Tellico Street • Madisonville, TN Next to Wal-Mart
423-442-2222
bertshometowngrill.com
THE TOWN OF TELLICO PLAINS, TN
Welcome!
From the Citizens of Tellico Plains
Open Monday-Sunday 9:00-5:00 Winter Hours: (Jan.-Feb.): Fri.-Sat. 9:00-5:00 & Sunday 1:00-5:00
225 Cherohala Skyway • Tellico Plains
423-253-8010 • Friendly Folks • Current Skyway & National Forest Information • Ample Free and Paved Parking • Outdoor Picnic Facilities • Super Clean Bathrooms • A Modern “Not-For-Profit” Gift Shop
Center owned and operated by Monroe County, Tennessee
www.cherohala.org The Official Website of Cherohala Skyway
Explore the Caverns & Take a Boat Ride Deep Underground!
The Small Town with the Big Back Yard
“Getaway to the Cherokee National Forest & The Cherohala Skyway” For even more excitement, check ou
Recreation, hunting, fishing, swimming, camping, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking or just a leisure drive across the Skyway. Enjoy street dancing at our 4th of July Celebration. If you can’t find it in Tellico Plains, it can’t be found!!!
Come & See!
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
t our
(423) 337-6616
Super Saturday
Highway 68 • Sweetwater www.thelostsea.com
Adventure every Saturday at 1pm!
www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 23
Carolina in my mind W
ith a natural beauty still unspoiled by crowds, Western North Carolina, including Graham, Cherokee and Swain counties, is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise. Two-thirds of Graham County is National Forest. It is the home of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Slickrock Creek Wilderness Area, the Nantahala National Forest, and borders the Smoky Mountains National Park. The Appalachian Trail winds through the county on its trek from Georgia to Maine. Lake Santeetlah’s shoreline is more than 75 percent National Forest; insurance that it will never be spoiled by development. Graham County has two of the best motorcycle/sports car roads in America. The Tail of the Dragon will challenge even the best riders/drivers with its 318 curves in 11 miles. The 50-milelong Cherohala Skyway is tamer, but offers unsurpassed views of Joyce Kilmer and the Cherokee
National Forest. Fontana Lake has some 25 miles of water to explore. The entire north shore is the Smoky Mountain National Park. Fontana Dam and Historic Fontana Village are a must see for the vacationer. Robbinsville is the sleepy county seat of Graham County. The biggest celebration of the year is the annual 4th of July Heritage Festival. Those looking for a little Western North Carolina culture should plan on stopping at the Stecoah Valley Center where there is a variety of cultural events are scheduled and live Appalachian music every Saturday night through the summer. Graham County and nearby Cherokee and Swain Counties have great outdoor water sports. To learn more about tourism and water sports in Western North Carolina visit http://www. grahamcountytravel.com and www.noc.com.
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Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
Bargain Hunters Welcome! Gently Used Books New Books Buy • Sell • Trade
Audio Books • Local Interest • Maps
Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm Closed Sunday & Monday
Bike Night
108 Scott Street Old Downtown Tellico Plains
4th Thursday of Every Month
www.tellicobookshelf.com
423-253-3183 • Tasting Room • Gift Shop • Special Events • Weddings • School Reunions OPEN DAILY Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m.-6 p.m.
Come to Our Old Fashioned Cruise-In 2nd Saturday in April-October
1817 Delano Road • Delano, TN 37325
Hwy. 411 Madisonville
Phone 423-263-2762 or 423-263-0421
442-2128
A Family Owned & Operated Business Located on Highway 411 between Etowah & Benton next to Hiwassee River
For a free guide go to www.southeasttennessee.com or call 1-877-807-4885
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 25
Townsend: Gateway to the Smoky Mountains T he small town of Townsend serves as
the Gateway to Cades Cove and the Great Smoky Mountains, which draw millions of visitors throughout the year. Cades Cove, located approximately seven miles from Townsend, is 1,800 acres of wideopen space nestled along the base of the Appalachian Mountains in East Tennessee. Twice a year, the Cove celebrates former residents and their descendants with a reunion dubbed Old Timer’s Day. Visitors have been welcome for years, but with the growing popularity of the event, the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority established its Heritage Festivals to help with the overcrowding in the Cove. This year’s Spring Festival and Old Timer’s Day is scheduled for May 3-4. One thing that attracts visitors is the changes Cades Cove goes through each season. In the springtime, the area is decorated with wildflowers with April being the peak time. For those who want to experience Cades Cove with a guide, Cades Cove Heritage Tours provides tours for visitors to enjoy the natural scenery and wildlife. The Heritage Tours operates year round but offers regularly scheduled tours between April 15 and Nov. 15 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile stretch where visitors can sightsee from their cars or pull aside and walk to historic spots, can be accessed from Little River Road in the national park. The Loop Road is closed to motorized traffic on Wednesday and Saturday mornings until 10 a.m. to allow bicyclists full access. For more information, contact the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority at 800-525-6834, visit www.SmokyMountains.org, or stop in at the Smoky Mountain Visitors Center in Townsend, located at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, or the Smoky Mountain Visitors Center in Maryville, located at 201 South Washington Street.
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*Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority photo of the 2012 Spring Festival and Old Timer’s Day.
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
MOTOR INNS OF AMERICA 4740 New Highway 68 S • Madisonville, TN
For Reservations or Other Information
(423) 442-9045
www.motorinnsofamerica.com Halfway between Knoxville & Chattanooga At the intersection of Hwy 411 & 68 IN THE HEART OF MONROE COUNTY
• 1 minute to 12 fast food restaurants • 10 minutes to Hiwassee College • 12 miles to I-75 • 12 mintues to 2nd Largest Flea Market • 40 minutes to Knoxville Airport
A Distinguished Hospital for Clinical Excellence™ For Two Years in a Row 2012 & 2013
Restaurant & General Store
Family Restaurant. Family Priced. Home Cooked Buffet
Soups • Salads • Meats • Vegetables • Desserts Full Menu Available. Breakfast All Day.
423.337-5825
1-75 & Oakland Road (Exit 62) Sweetwater, Tennessee
Open Daily at 6:00 am
The most advanced health care is close to home. Q 9ecc_ii_ed ed 9WdY[h WYYh[Z_j[Z YWdY[h fhe]hWc Q 7c[h_YWd >[Whj 7iieY_Wj_ed%7c[h_YWd Ijhea[ 7iieY_Wj_ed Y[hj_Ó[Z WZlWdY[Z fh_cWho Ijhea[ 9[dj[h Q B?<;F79A Z[ÓXh_bbWjeh%ced_jeh fWhjd[hi^_f m_j^ HkhWb%C[jhe 7cXkbWdY[ Q IJ;C? IJ I[]c[dj ;b[lWj_ed CoeYWhZ_Wb ?d\WhYj_ed j[Wc \eYki[Z ed _cc[Z_Wj[" [¢[Yj_l[ ^[Whj WjjWYa jh[Wjc[dj Q C_d_cWbbo _dlWi_l[" heXej#Wii_ij[Z ikh][ho \eh dkc[heki YWdY[h" XWh_Wjh_Y" ]od[Yebe]_YWb WdZ khebe]_YWb fheY[Zkh[i
Tennessee Mountain Traveler- Spring 2013
www.advocateanddemocrat.com | 27
Sweetwater Heritage Museum Opening During the National Muscadine Festival
The Corner of North and High Street • Sweetwater, Tennessee 423-337-6979 • 2pm-4pm • Saturday and Sunday Featuring new digital exhibits on the history of Sweetwater High School & Black History in Swee twater.
rough the th t n ra g a y b rt a ded in p & New exhibits fun e John D. Grubb th m o fr n o ti a d n East TN Fou e County. ro n o M r fo d n u F r Louise G. Sumne
Visit Sweetwater, TN For These Events and More! National Muscadine Festival 2013 September 27th-29th
Small Town Christmas July 4th
Visit www.visitsweetwater.com for more info