Lake Hiwassee in Cherokee County - Western North Carolina Mountains

Lake Hiwassee is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, and offers spectacular scenery. Lake Hiwassee is primarily fed by the Hiwassee, Nottely, and Valley rivers. The lake covers 6,090 acres with almost 180 miles of shoreline; it measures 22 miles long and more than 200 feet deep in places.

The Tennessee Valley Authority dam, also named Hiwassee, was completed in 1940 for flood control and electric power. At 307 feet, it is the highest overspill dam in the world. As its waters head west, Lake Hiwassee feeds into Appalachia Lake. In conjunction with Lake Chatuge, these three lakes along the Tusquittee River are collectively referred to as the Chain of Lakes, offering boating, water-skiing, swimming, and fishing opportunities against a peaceful mountain landscape.

The National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame lists a record catch of a 54-pound striped bass from Lake Hiwassee. Other fish within the reservoirs include bluegill, yellow perch, and muskie.

Boater, canoer, and kayakers will find easy access to the water at the Hanging Dog Recreation Area on Lake Hiwassee with a campground, picnic area, hiking trails, and a boat launching ramp.

In Murphy access is available to the Hiwassee River. This Class I and II whitewater river is 18.3 miles long with a 3-mile stretch designated as a Trophy Trout Stream. Family rafting and tubing trips can be arranged by outfitters in the area. Because Appalachia Lake has no developed recreation areas, it is an excellent option for those seeking solitude during the busy summer season.

Directions: To Hanging Dog Recreation Area, from Murphy travel 4.4 miles northwest on Peachtree Road which later becomes Joe Brown Highway. Entrance to Lake is on the left.