Spring Paddling

For those of us that know about it, it has become an annual trip each Spring. We begin with a drive over the beautiful Foothills Parkway to Chilhowee Lake, a small lake tucked in between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest. The drive alone is worth the time, as it offers the best views of the mountains all the way to North Carolina; however it is just the beginning. Once we reach Chilhowee Lake, we launch the boats and paddle back into a secluded area for a picnic in the wilderness, enjoying the leisure, scenery and the company of those with you along the way. It's not uncommon to see turtles sunning themselves on the banks, the mountain laurel and rhododendron lighting up the hillsides, and fish cruising just under the boat. The best time to go is either first thing in the morning, or around 10 am for a picnic. I hope that you have the opportunity to take advantage of this great trip.

– Thomas Krajewski, Activities Manager