The Most Remote Lake In Tennessee Is Also The Most Peaceful
There are plenty of remote areas in Tennessee’s expansive wilderness, mainly because the state government has done quite a bit of work preserving the beauty of the local wilderness. You will find a myriad of places to take a dip, to hike through the mountains, or to simply observe the beauty of the state’s local wildlife. Chilhowee Lake is located a solid 40 miles south of Knoxville, Tennessee, and it is perhaps one of the least-known and most remote places to enjoy a day in Tennessee. If you’re seeking a quiet region for a peaceful kayaking trip or hike, then this may be your spot.
Chilhowee Lake is a quiet, peaceful lake on the eastern edge of Tennessee that provides a natural boundary between the Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The man-made reservoir is shallow and a mere 10 miles in its entirety, narrow and twisting.
The reservoir was created after the impounding of the Little Tennessee River in 1957. The resulting lake has become a fisherman's dream, with largemouth bass, crappie, trout, and walleye making up just a small percentage of the lake's fish population. Trout are also stocked annually.
You can utilize one of three public boat ramps, and if you're a paddler you should check out the Chota Memorial Site, an honorary memorial that recognizes the seven local Cherokee clans and their national importance. You can also paddle down to Abrams Creek!
There are not many lodging opportunities in the area, though you can take advantage of nearby campgrounds. Robbinsville, North Carolina is perhaps the closest spot to find more modern lodgings. Otherwise, expect a little bit of dirt and a whole lot of fun as you explore the 1,747-acre reservoir.
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
