Ocoee River in Tennessee

Trip Overview

Beginning at the base of Ocoee Dam is a launch point (N35 0541.93, W84 38 59.88 elev.783) for the Ocoee River outflow toward the Hiwassee River. This opening point is a trout fishing area till the bridge at Hwy 64 overpass. Proper fishing license are required. This means possession of fishing equipment on board makes you a fisherperson per Tennessee requirements. (www.tnwildlife.org). There are other fish in the river and the smallmouth is one of them (the Tennessee State fish).

There are places to stop on the riverside; these places will appear along the riverbank. About the half way point there is the Reynolds Bridge (N35 08 54.57 W84 41 36.47 elev.699) an area to take out or continue on to the Hwy 411 Bridge (N35 08 54.57 W84 4136.47 elev. 681). There is a takeout parking lot on the left river bank before passing under the bridge. Passing under this bridge could be rough getting back to the takeout.

At this point there is a grave site for Nancy Ward. She sheltered Cherokee Indians on their Trail of Tears journey. This is a great time in history because the location is in the area of the white man and Indian encounters. Look for the story of the Great Cherokee Nation history lessons.

Continuing further will take you to the confluence of the Hiwassee River and the Ocoee Rivers (N35 1221.65 W84 3927.42 elev. 682). Turning right and paddling up stream to the Dentville Bridge (Old Patty) to find the takeout point.

Based on water flow, some maneuvering is involved. Being a responsible canoeist in knowing your ability is a thought you must address. The river always wins every time. It does not rain on canoe trips just as in the military.

Access to other rivers like the Hiwassee River, Nantahala River, Tellico River, French Broad River, Chattooga River in North Georgia/North Carolina border and others are nearby.

We a blessed here in Southeast Tennessee.

Accommodations:

Lodging can be found locally from tent camping to house rental.

Ocoee Inn (www.ocoeeinn.com) is a great place to make contact with for all items of interest (food). At the Inn there is great country foods and a food bar to make you fat and lazy, then a cup of coffee and a slice of cheese pie will make the day.

Outfitting:

Local outfitters can be of use for you in shuttles and rentals.

Directions:

The location for this area is east of Hwy 411 on Hwy 64 East to Copperhill, Tenn. Forty-five minutes from Chattanooga, Tenn.

Follow the directions from the Ocoee Inn website or the outfitter of choice.

Contact:

Agencies to contact:

• Tennessee Scenic Rivers (www.paddletsra.org)
• Tennessee Valley Canoe Club (www.tvccpaddles.com)
• Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (see link in report)
• Tennessee Blue Way, Chattanooga, TN (www.chattanooga.gov/PRAC/30_1002.htm.)

Resources:

In this area 911 is used, but cell coverage is not always available because of terrain.

VHF channel 17 (156.850 MHz.) is for TWRA.

Channel 16 (156.800MHz.) is USCG but is not monitored because of non navigable water on Ocoee River.

NOAA weather is on 162.550 MHz for this area.