Lake Hiwassee is surrounded by the Nantahala & Cherokee National Forest, and offers spectacular scenery. Lake Hiwassee is primarily fed by the Hiwassee, Nottely, and Valley rivers. The lake covers 6,090 acres with almost 180 miles of shoreline; it measures 22 miles long and more than 200 feet deep in places.
The Tennessee Valley Authority dam, also named Hiwassee, was completed in 1940 for flood control and electric power. At 307 feet, it is the highest overspill dam in the world, the dam stretches 1,376 across the Hiwassee River. As its waters head west, Lake Hiwassee feeds into Appalachia Lake. In conjunction with Lake Chatuge, these three lakes along the Tusquittee River are collectively referred to as the Chain of Lakes, offering boating, water-skiing, swimming, and fishing opportunities against a peaceful mountain landscape.
Boater, canoer, and kayakers will find easy access to the water at the Hanging Dog Recreation Area on Lake Hiwassee with a campground, picnic area, hiking trails, and a boat launching ramp.
TWO DAY MINIMUM RENTAL FOR THIS LAKE
Looking to make the most of your time at Lake Hiwassee? Look no further than our wide selection of watercraft rentals! Whether you're in the mood for some high-speed fun on a jet ski, want to explore every nook and cranny of the lake on a ski boat, or simply cruise in style on a tritoon or premium tritoon, we've got you covered. And if wakeboarding is more your speed, our top-of-the-line wake boats are sure to impress. Book Your Rental.
But here's the catch – we have a two-day minimum rental requirement for all these fantastic options. Why? Because we believe that one day just isn't enough to experience everything Lake Hiwassee has to offer. With its breathtaking scenery framed by the Nantahala & Cherokee National Forests, this tranquil oasis deserves more than just a fleeting visit.
Spread across 6,090 acres with nearly 180 miles of shoreline, Lake Hiwassee beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. Its deep blue waters are primarily fed by three rivers – the Hiwassee, Nottely, and Valley rivers – creating an aquatic playground like no other. The impressive Tennessee Valley Authority dam stands tall as both flood control measure and power generator.
As you navigate through this picturesque landscape, don't forget about Appalachia Lake waiting downstream! Together with Lake Chatuge along the Tusquittee River, they form what locals affectionately refer to as the Chain of Lakes.
If you're looking to have a thrilling time on the water at Lake Hiwassee, make sure you plan for a two-day minimum rental of our amazing selection of watercraft. Whether you want to feel the rush of jet skiing, cruise in style on a ski boat, or relax with friends and family on a spacious tritoon or premium tritoon, we've got you covered. And if wakeboarding is your thing, our top-of-the-line wake boats are perfect for catching some serious air.
Situated amidst the beautiful Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests, Lake Hiwassee offers breathtaking scenery that will leave you awe-inspired. With its crystal clear waters fed by three rivers – Hiwassee, Nottely, and Valley – spanning over 6,090 acres with nearly 180 miles of shoreline, this natural wonderland has something for everyone.
As you explore this magnificent lake's vast expanse that stretches over 22 miles in length and reaches depths exceeding 200 feet in certain spots, don't forget to marvel at the impressive Tennessee Valley Authority dam named after Hiwassee itself. This towering structure stands at an incredible height of 307 feet and spans an astonishing distance of 1,376 across the majestic Hiwassee River.
