Wild Waters & Winding Trails-Journey through Tennessee's Overhill Region: Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of East Tennessee’s Overhill region, where wild waters and winding trails set the pace for discovery. Dive into Loch Low Minn or glide above the Cherokee National Forest, and paddle the Hiwassee after sampling local wine and spirits. Snorkeling, waterfall hikes and a pontoon ride on Parksville Lake round out a day of outdoor adventure. Wrap the journey with trout fishing on the Tellico River and visits to Fort Loudon and the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum—all paired with meals that reflect the region’s small-town charm. This FAM invites storytellers to connect with nature, heritage, and the spirit of the open road.
Location: Tennessee Overhill/McMinn, Monroe & Polk Counties
Minimum Participants: 2
Maximum Participants: 8
Primary Contact: - Amanda Murphy, TN Tourism, 615-948-6573
- Adrian Lambert, Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association, (423)263-7232
Who can attend & Cost: - Active OWAA members (media) - $0
- Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - $200 fee to help cover meals & activities
- Spouses/partners - $200 fee to help cover meals & activities
Transportation: - Closest Airport: Chattanooga International Airport (CHA). Shuttles will transport from CHA to destination.
- Self driving? Meet in-market where shuttles will be provided for all itinerary stops.
ITINERARY (subject to change)
Friday, Aug. 15- 12:00 noon Check in at Hiwassee Acres
- 1:00 p.m. Option 1: Diving at Loch Low Minn Dive Resort
- 1:00 p.m. Option 2: Glider Ride at Chilhowee Glider Port
- 5:00 p.m. Dinner at Silver Springs Vineyards followed by After Dinner Drinks at Morea Distillery onsite.
- 7:00 p.m. Evening Paddle to Hiwassee Meadowlands
Saturday, Aug. 16- 9:00 a.m. Breakfast at Steel Wheel Diner
- 11:00 a.m. Snorkeling on the Hiwassee
- 1:30 p.m. Lunch at the Honey & Clove Bistro
- 3:00 p.m. Hike to Benton Falls
- 3:00 p.m. Lake Ocoee Inn Marina, Pontoon Boat Ride on Parksville Lake
- 6:00-8:00 p.m. Dinner at the Ocoee Dam Deli
Sunday, Aug. 17- 9:00 a.m. Breakfast at Tellico Grains Bakery
- 10:30 a.m. Trout Fishing on the Tellico River
- 1:00 p.m. Lunch at Peach Street Grill
- 3:00 p.m. Visit Fort Loudon State Historic Park & Seqouyah Birthplace Museum
- 5:00 p.m. Dinner at the Lazy Beagle
- 6:30 p.m. After Dinner Drinks at the Carpool Garage
Monday, Aug. 18- 8:00 a.m. Check-out Hiwassee Acres
- 1:30 p.m. Depart for Chattanooga
Deadline to Register: July 15, 2025
