located on the eastern edge of the southern half of the Cherokee National forest on Chilhowee, the Benton Falls trail allows for a captivating and exciting hike to a stunning waterfall and swimming hole worth every minute. 

The drive to the mountain starts off of Highway 74 going eastward from Cleveland/Chattanooga. If you are with your family or just looking for a short hike with an incredible scenic drive you will take the first left to begin scaling the mountain. take the opportunity to stop at the several overlooks to catch a stunning view of the southern Appalachian mountains to your east, or the Tennessee valley stretching as far as the eye can see to the west. 

You will also have the option to climb up the mountain itself, for that follow your GPS and signage to the Clemmer trailhead near lake Ocoee. your climb will be on a more primitive trail and will be about 3-4 times the distance and intensity to the falls.

the trail begins at the McCamy Lake recreation area and campgrounds. You will follow a sand trail through burn scars and rhododendron tunnels. you will occasionally hear the bubbling of a small stream. at about mile 1.2 you will begin to hear the faint roar of the falls, growing only louder. at mile 1.3-1.4 the Clemmer trail and Benton Falls train converge and begin to descend to the basin of the falls. the roar of the rushing water is now impossible to ignore. A small branch off the trail will allow you to visit the top of the waterfall, an excellent place to eat a snack or lunch as it is significantly less crowded and more shaded than the base of the falls. i still wouldn't reccomend swimming as the rocks are slick and you're faced with a 65 foot drop to the base of the falls. 

I absolutely love this hike and the multiple approach options makes the trail suitable for all ages.