Enjoy these four must see falls to explore near Ducktown, TN and the Ocoee River, including Benton Falls, Ruby Falls, Turtletown Falls, and Lowery Falls. These are some of our favorite at Carolina Ocoee Rafting.
Benton Falls
This 65 foot waterfall is located at the Chilhowee Recreation Area in the Cherokee National Forest. The hike is a three hour round trip and is less than an hour from Carolina Ocoee white water rafting. The hike is fairly easy but a bit more challenging near the end. The best time to visit is in early spring or late fall when there may be more water flowing.
Turtletown Falls
Photo Credit: Mallory Armistead
Turtletown Falls is just a 12 mile drive from Ducktown, Tennessee and the Ocoee River. It’s one of the easiest to hike at about a four mile loop and should take you about an hour and a half to complete. These falls are popular and can get busy especially during the weekends and holidays throughout summer. Hikers, bikers, birdwatchers, and horseback riders also use the trail. Due to rocky road conditions, a 4WD might come in handy. It’s a nice waterfall to visit at any time of the year.
Ruby Falls
Less than an hour and a half away from the Ocoee River is the famous underground Ruby Falls in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It’s one of the largest underground waterfalls in the world. There is a charge to go see this waterfall ($25.95 and up), but it’s an uncommon experience well worth the price of admission. Ruby falls is located 1000 feet below Lookout Mountain, which you will ride down to in an elevator, then hike through some interesting rock formations to reach the falls. They also offer romantic and ghost tour lantern hikes to the falls. Spots fill up fast so get your tickets early
Lowry Falls
Lowry Falls in Reliance, Tennessee is a short 35 minute drive from Carolina Ocoee Rafting. The hike is short with many sets of small waterfalls, or cascades, for your enjoyment. It’s a steep hike up and can be muddy in places so be cautious. The walk in is rated as moderate to difficult. You will need to park at Taylor’s Island parking lot on the left side of the road and walk a short distance on the road to the trailhead.
Few things in life bring you such peace as a walk in nature as you observe the beauty that surrounds you. The Cherokee National Forest is one of the best places to engage with the great outdoors.
“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” ~Laura Ingalls Wilder~
Come join Carolina Ocoee to start your love of nature with us! Book Now for your white water rafting adventure where the fun begins!
