The following is an excerpt from the
"Ocoee and Hiwassee Rivers
Corridor
Management Plan.
To see the whole
plan with picutures visit: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/cherokee/planning/2008/non_nepa/CMP_021908.pdf
Hiwassee River Corridor Vision
Visitors to the Hiwassee River Corridor are drawn
to the pastoral landscape evoking a sense of rural
Apalachia. Visitors have opportunities to learn
about the rich heritage of the area and appreciate
the local attachment to the land and the river.
The Hiwassee River corridor is a destination for
scenic
driving, family outings, premiere trout
fishing, remote
backcountry hiking, and beginning
whitewater adventure.
Those driving for pleasure take in the state scenic
river through filtered views and managed scenic
overlooks as they drive or stop to picnic along the
way.
The scenic river provides
the setting of
unparalleled fishing opportunity in the
region.
Developed and informal access points provide
ample opportunities to fish along the bank. Shared
boat ramps provide water access for those enjoying
a day of floating and fishing as well as access
for those looking for beginner-level whitewater
adventure, or seasoned kayak or whitewater canoe
enthusiasts with a favorite rapid or places to play
in
the water.
Although the river itself is the primary focus,
the
hiking trails and railroad corridor support and
expand the experience. Occasional railroad use
does not detract from the sense of solitude and
backcountry of the Hiwassee corridor, but rather
provides alternative means for enjoying the area.
The River experience is facilitated through
intuitive
way finding features that guide visitors
along the travel routes in the Hiwassee River
Corridor. Those walking on the twenty-mile John
Muir National Scenic Trail have little interaction
with vehicles. Segments of the trail are used by
anglers
and as a day hike for family outings.
The infrastructure
provides safe, comfortable
facilities complementing local
surroundings and
promoting this rustic and serene sense
of place.
Information and interpretive exhibits provide
background about the rich cultural heritage of
this special place and encourage responsible use
by visitors. The historic landscape at Reliance is
preserved both complementing and supporting the
visitor experience.
