Find your Adventure
Welcome Valley Village is located in Polk County, Tennessee, bordering both Western North Carolina and North Georgia. Our rental cabins are located just a few miles outside the Cherokee National Forest, which is best known for its great rivers and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic drives. The nearby cities of Cleveland, Blue Ridge, and Chattanooga offer a wide variety of shopping, dining, entertainment, and first-class tourist attractions. Our area's rich history is showcased by the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association.
White Water Rafting
Ocoee Whitewater Center
Just two miles from our rental cabin village, you can connect to The Ocoee Scenic Byway which traverses the Cherokee National Forest from east to west along Highway 64. The Byway offers particularly beautiful scenery along a 4 mile stretch of Lake Ocoee and through the Ocoee River Gorge. Along the Byway, don’t miss the Ocoee Whitewater Center where you can stroll among the terraces of the colorful Native Garden, see the racecourse used for the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom competition, visit the gift shop, explore the hiking and mountain bike trails, or take a cool swim at the “blue hole,” a favorite river spot among locals for generations.
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Chilhowee Mountain
Just 6 miles from our Village, Forest Service Road 77 climbs the breathtaking route up Chilhowee Mountain to the Chilhowee Recreation Area where families can enjoy swimming in a mountain lake (with sandy beach), picnicking, hiking, or mountain biking along numerous woodland trails. Many families staying at our Village enjoy the short hike back to Benton Falls which begins at Chilhowee Lake.Along the picturesque Lake Ocoee are two public swimming beaches, picnic areas, boat ramps, and a marina. At the marina, you can rent a canoe, fishing boat, or pontoon boat for the day or by the hour.
Tubing & Boating
Ocoee & Hiwassee River
For a more relaxing river experience, many of our guests enjoy tubing or boating the lower section of the Ocoee River where our Village is located. You can put in 3 miles “up river” from our Village at Sugarloaf Mountain Park. From there, you can lay back in your tube, glide along the swift-moving water, and gaze up at the huge trees that line this section of the river until you reach our Village about an hour and a half later.
Several companies in the area offer guided tubing trips on this lower “slower” section of the Ocoee River. Or you can do your own self-guided trip – all you need are your own lifejackets, tubes, and two vehicles (one to drive to the put-in and another to leave here at the Village).
The nearby Hiwassee River offers an “in-between” river experience – several easy to moderate rapids mixed with some slower stretches of water.
Restaurants
:
Apricot Place Cafe
This laid back outdoor Café is located at the Quest Expeditions rafting outpost. Enjoy hearty deli and gourmet sandwiches, Black Angus burgers, wings, fries, ice cream and more before or after your Ocoee River adventure.
Hiking
:
2.1 miles
Out-and-Back
Azalea Trail
Experience this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 46 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
Swimming
Bald River Falls
This 90 foot high water fall is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the region. It is easily accessed from Tellico River Road (NFRS 210), and provides outstanding photographic opportunities. Parking is limited, and visitor use is high on weekends and holidays. If possible, plan your visit during weekdays.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
Swimming
Benton Falls
This 3.0-mile out-and-back. Located in the Chilhowee Recreation Area of the Cherokee National Forest, Benton Falls is a stunning 65-foot waterfall. It's a popular hiking destination with a well-maintained trail.
Hiking
:
4.6 miles
Out-and-Back
Benton Falls Trail and Slick Rock Trail Loop
Experience this 4.6-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 53 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Hiking
:
300 miles
Benton MacKaye Trail
With its glorious ridgeline views and the innumerable crossings of mountain streams, the almost 300 mile long Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) comes by its reputation for beauty honestly. Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, the BMT has some of the most varied and abundant wildflowers of any temperate climate forest in the world – and — the variety of tree species is second to none.
Restaurants
:
Cajun Lady Seafood
Family owned and ran this cajun style restaurant serves fresh seafood and authentic Cajun & Creole Dishes.
Experiences
:
Thrill-Seeker
Cherokee Rafting Company
With a dedicated team of skilled guides, Cherokee Rafting Company caters to diverse skill levels and ensures a safe yet thrilling experience. Whether seeking family-friendly trips or more intense whitewater challenges, adventurers can rely on Cherokee Rafting Company for an unforgettable Ocoee River rafting adventure.
Experiences
:
Sight-Seeing
Chilhowee Gliderport
Located between the Ocoee and Hiawassee rivers, Chilhowee Gliderport is the perfect place to experience the thrill of soaring through the sky. Visitors can take a ride on a glider, piloted by an experienced pilot who can teach visitors about the basics of gliding and soaring.
Hiking
:
6.8-mile
Loop
Clear Creek, Rim Rock and Slick Rock Laurel Loop
Try this 6.8-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 51 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Hiking
:
11.8
Out-and-Back
Easy
Clemmer Trailhead South
While Clemmer has sections that are beginner friendly, the trail as a whole is better for intermediate to advanced hikers. This trailhead is a primary access point to the Chilhowee Trails System. Wanna really go for it? Start at the top of the mountain with the Benton Falls Trail and hike a total distance of 11.8 miles—down and back up.
Hiking
:
9.5 miles
Loop
Clemmer, Slick Rock, and Clear Creek Trails Loop
Head out on this 9.5-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 35 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Experiences
:
Fitness
Climbing Wall
This climbing wall at OAR is 30 feet of adventure for anyone ages eight and up. Guides will help outfit you with top-notch, adjustable equipment before you begin. New to climbing? No problem! This Climbing Wall has routes ready for adventurers of all experience levels.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
Conasauga Falls
Conasauga Falls Trail #170 is a 1.5 mile (roundtrip) trail that offers quick and easy way to see and experience a beautiful waterfall and enjoy a quiet day by the creek.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
Swinging Bridge
Swimming
Fall Branch Falls
Located near the Ocoee Whitewater Center, this waterfall is easily accessible via a short hike. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Hiking
:
2.7 miles
Out-and-Back
Moderate
Gee Creek Falls Trail
This 2.7-mile out-and-back trail is considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 1 h 23 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Restaurants
:
Southern
10 Min Drive
Gg's Restaurant
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
kayaking
Swimming
Goforth Creek Falls
This falls is right next to the main road in the Cherokee National Forest. It cascades down some giant boulders and flows into the river across the street. There are some great photo opportunities and it is worth the stop.
Hiking
:
3.7 miles
Out-and-Back
Moderate
Goforth Creek Trailhead
This 3.7-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 31 min to complete. This is a popular trail for camping, hiking, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Experiences
:
Educational
Caving
Lost Sea Adventure
Part of the Craighead Caverns cave system Lost Sea Adventure offers tours of the cave that include a ¾ mile guided walk that winds underground to the shores of the subterranean lake.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Hiking
Birding
Lowry Falls
This 0.7-mile out-and-back trail is a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 26 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Swimming
Picnic
Fishing
Mac Point Beach Recreation Area
Bring a picnic and spend the day! A white sand beach and shady picnic area with tables and grills occupy a small peninsula jutting out into Lake Ocoee. Restroom/changing facilities are nearby. Across the highway is a fishing pond and camping is available just down the road at Parksville Campground.
Restaurants
:
Marthie Ann's Hot Chicken and Cold Treats
A Chicken centered fast casual restaurant featuring , salads, an array of the best chicken sandwiches on Earth, novel ice creams, and meat and three.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Swimming
Hiking
Biking
McCamy Lake
The 7-acre McKamy Lake offers a swim area with a sand beach, bathrooms, picnic tables, and fishing from the bank. Boats are allowed, but gasoline motors are not. Within the Chilhowee Recreation Area are approximately 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a scenic waterfall.
Hiking
:
1.2 miles
Loop
McCamy Lake Trail and Forest Walk Loop
Get to know this 1.2-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 27 min to complete. This trail is great for walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Hiking
:
0.7 miles
Loop
McKamy Lake Trail Loop
Experience this 0.7-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 14 min to complete. This is a popular trail for running and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Hiking
:
0.7 miles
Loop
Mckamey Forest Walk
Discover this 0.7-mile loop trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 17 min to complete. This trail is great for walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Restaurants
:
Myrtle's Cafe
This small and quaint artisan cafe has become extremely popular since its opening in the winter of 2022. Myrtle is a genius in the kitchen creating unique & mouthwatering dishes from scratch. She offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads, sides , sweets , and more .
Restaurants
:
Coffee
8 Min Drive
Ocoee Coffee Joint
Restaurants
:
Ocoee Damn Deli and Diner
This local diner offers a wholesome dining atmosphere with country cooking and bluegrass entertainment. Look forward to wraps, fresh ground burgers, steaks, fresh green salads, and homemade foods.
Experiences
:
Ocoee Horseride
Ocoee Horseride offers a full day horse back ride in the Chattahoochee and Cherokee National Forests. Enjoy an experience like no other with your family as you explore Tennessee's stunning rainforests and pristine rivers.
Experiences
:
Thrill-Seeker
Ocoee Ziplines and Canopy Tours
With over a mile of cable, racing through the breath-taking views of the Cherokee Forest & Blue Ridge Mountains, this is an adventure that you and your family will never forget! It's an activity for the whole family, even the grand parents!
Hiking
:
7.6 miles
Out-and-Back
Oswald Dome Trail via Lowery Cove Trail
Explore this 7.6-mile out-and-back trail near Benton, Tennessee. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 35 min to complete. This is a popular trail for camping and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Experiences
:
Thrill-Seeker
Outland Expeditions
Outland Expeditions offers a convenient and accessible way for both locals and visitors from nearby cities like Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville, and Atlanta to experience the thrill of white water rafting. It's a fantastic option for those seeking adventure and a connection with nature.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Parksville Beach
This popular swim area is surrounded by grassy areas with picnic tables and benches. Vault toilet and changing facilities available. Please note that there is no life guard at the beach.
Lakes & Waterfalls
:
Swimming
Boating
Scenic Drive
Parksville Lake
Pontoon boats drift lazily around and the few jet skiers aren't enough to disturb the tranquility. In fact, there's lots of room on Parksville Lake if you are jet ski aficianado. You can't say that about many lakes. Parksville Lake sits just below the Ocoee River and above the stunning Parksville Dam. The Lake front goes on for miles and miles and is one of the prettieset scenic drives in the area. Located all along Hwy 64.
Experiences
:
Thrill-Seeker
Quest Expeditions
With a range of trips suitable for various skill levels, adventure seekers can enjoy the adrenaline-pumping rapids while surrounded by the picturesque Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee.
Experiences
:
Relaxing
River Tubing (Ocoee Adventure Rafting)
Enjoy a relaxing float down the beautiful Lower Ocoee River. OAR provides all the equipment you need, along with a guide for every 10 people to keep you safe on the water. This adventure is great for big groups, small families, or a few friends. There are no age restrictions, so you can bring the little ones along too!
Restaurants
:
Dessert
16 Min Drive
Shake Shack
Restaurants
:
Southern
6 Min Drive
The Blue Hole Cafe
Restaurants
:
The Bus Bar
The BUS BAR is a permanently parked yellow bus which has been transformed into a Beer lovers dream. Craft beer on tap, live music, late night bites, and signature cocktails!
Hiking
:
2.7 miles
Out-and-Back
Moderate
Thunder Rock Trail
This trail is considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of 1 h 18 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.