The Tri-State River & Scenic Byway Blueprint

When late August and September roll around, there is no better cure for southern city heat than heading up into our mountain waterways. As local folks born and raised along this stretch of the Tennessee-Georgia border, we spend our weekends cruising the scenic highway loops, splashing in the rivers, and lounging by the lakes. Here is our insider blueprint for planning an unforgettable late-summer water getaway.

The Drive is Half the Fun: Cruising the Ocoee Scenic Byway

If you are driving in from Chattanooga or Atlanta, your mountain escape officially starts the second you merge onto U.S. Highway 64. Designated in 1988 as the nation's very first National Forest Scenic Byway, the Ocoee Scenic Byway hugs the rock walls of the river gorge on one side and towering mountain canopies on the other.

Before you hit the whitewater section of the gorge, the highway opens up to the stunning blue waters of Parksville Lake (also known as Lake Ocoee). It is a massive, pristine mountain reservoir bordered entirely by the Cherokee National Forest.

Local Stop: Picnic & Swim at Parksville Beach

One of our favorite resident secrets is packing a lunch and taking a mid-day pitstop at Parksville Beach. It features a smooth grassy shore leading right into freshwater swim areas, surrounded by sweeping mountain ridgelines. Grab a blanket out of the car, spread out on the grass, and watch the boats cruise past before continuing up into Turtletown.

Spreading out our custom cabin blanket for a peaceful afternoon break along Parksville Beach on Lake Ocoee.

Choosing Your River Vibe: Ocoee, Toccoa, or Hiwassee?

Once you pass Parksville Lake and head toward Perfectly Imperfect Cabin, you sit right in the middle of three distinct river experiences:

• The Ocoee River (Tennessee Side: Adrenaline & Whitewater): Once the water crosses into Tennessee, it transforms into world-famous Class III and IV whitewater rapids. Because the water level is dam-regulated by the TVA, you get guaranteed, roaring rapids all through late summer.
• The Toccoa River (Georgia Side: Lazy Floats & Waterfront Towns): On the Georgia side of the line, the Toccoa flows gently through pastoral mountain valleys. It is ideal for peaceful tube floats, paddleboarding, wading, and trout fishing. Afterward, pull right out in McCaysville or Blue Ridge for craft beer and riverside dining.
• The Hiwassee River (Tennessee Side: Shaded Mountain Canyon): A short drive north toward Reliance brings you to the Hiwassee Gorge. It offers shallow, crystal-clear water flanked by high limestone cliffs, making it perfect for a relaxed 2-to-3-hour float away from big resort crowds.

Local Packing & Prep Tips

Skip the rookie mistakes by packing these essentials for your day on the water:

• Secure Footwear: Strap-on sandals like Chacos or Tevas, or old water shoes. Flip-flops will get swallowed by river currents!
• Sun Protection: Waterproof sunscreen and strap retainers like Chums for your sunglasses.
• Dry Bag & Change of Clothes: Keep a dry towel and warm hoodie waiting back in your vehicle for the short drive back to the cabin.