It would be difficult to provide a detailed description of all the hiking trails in Polk County. Those listed below can be used as a guide to help you get acquainted with the area, but the best way to learn abut the Cherokee National Forest is to pick up a map at any of the ranger district offices and explore on your own.

The Benton Falls Trail, John Muir Trail and Oswald Dome Trail are three of the most popular and well-traveled paths in the county. Don’t forget to enjoy the wildflowers along the way!

Chilhowee Mountain

To reach Chilhowee Lake and the Benton Falls Trail, take U.S. 64 east from Cleveland about 12 miles (U.S. 64 west from the Copper Basin); turn onto Forest Service Road 77 for 7 miles.

The one-and-a-half mile trail to Benton Falls is a pleasant walk any time of year. To reach the path, drive to Chilhowee Lake and walk around the beach, entering the forest on the left.

There are two marked paths for hikers, one on the left, leading to the falls, and a mini-trail designed especially for young children.

Although the Benton Falls Trail is an easy walk, it might be too difficult for toddlers.

Observant hikers will find new sights with each step. There are several striking tree and rock formations along the way, and the foliage changes with the seasons.

You will smell and hear the water before it is actually visible, but at least by this time, you will know the falls are not far away.

As the trail veers to the right, mountain stone steps and a log handrail will guide you the rest of the way.

Moss covered boulders and a green pool of water at the base of the falls are a refreshing sight for weary hikers. During the summer months, few can resist the temptation to go wading or sit on the ledge beneath the cascading white water.

For those who are interested in a longer hike, the main trail continues down the mountain and eventually ends at Hwy. 64. Just be sure to keep track of the time, and don't forget you'll be walking uphill for most of the return trip.

John Muir Trail

If you prefer a path that is a little on the wild side, try the John Muir Trail. This is the kind of winding forest path that makes you want to keep going further to see what is around the next bend.

It's also a good "thinking trail" that lets you stretch your mind and your legs at the same time.

The trail is a National Forest Recreation Trail, built by the Youth Conservation Corps. It can be reached by following Hwy. 30 to Reliance from either U.S. 64 at Parksville Lake or U.S. 411 north of Benton. Cross the bridge over the Hiwassee River and turn right and drive two miles until you see the signs at the parking area.

The trail begins with a short walk through a sunny meadow. Once you enter the forest, the river is a constant companion. There are plenty of opportunities for fishing, wading, meditating or sunbathing on one of the many rocks along the river.

Maybe it's the exotic bamboo growing beside the path, or it could be the sound of rushing water, but this trail's untamed atmosphere will bring out the spirit of adventure in even the most passive soul.

This 3.2 mile section is especially kind to senior citizens and novice hikers.

A second section of the total 20-mile trail begins just to the left of the Big Bend parking Lot. It travels up the ridge and eventually down at the base of the Apalachia powerhouse.

A third and absolutely beautiful section begins at the base of the bridge across the Hiwassee River to the powerhouse. Follow the signs once you cross the Hiwassee River bridge to the powerhouse. It is just a shot walk from the last parking area to the bridge and trail head which is just below the bridge.

The trail winds up and down for about five miles to Farner. It crosses creeks, narrowly winds along the top of the mountainside and offers panoramic views of the famous Hiwassee narrows--a spot where the river is less than 20 feet wide and almost dry.

There are several caves along the way and this trail section seems especially good for backpackers.

Oswald Dome Trail (#80)

This 3.86-mile trail is rated moderate with some difficult sections. The trail begins at Quinn Springs Campground east of U.S. 411 on TN 30. There are no water sources along the trail, but water can be found at Quinn Springs. The trail gradually ascends to the rocky hillside of Bean Mountain. It continues climbing the mountainside, traversing several ridges. Open spaces provide views of the valley and associated communities to the north. Topping a rise on Chilhowee Mountain, the trail levels out to about 3,000 feet, then climbs 1.3 miles to the terminus of the trail at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet near Oswald Dome fire tower.

Access to the trail on Chilhowee Mountain can be gained from Forest Road 77 by either TN 30 or Chilhowee Campground.