Lake Chatuge was formed in 1942 when the Tennessee Valley Authority finished construction on a 2950 foot earth-fill type dam across the Hiawassee River. Origianlly for the purpose of flood control and to bring affordable electrical power to the area, the unsurpassed beauty of the lake that was created has an allure all its own. Visitors and residents enjoy leisurely strolls along the dam with a spectacular view of this “Jewel of the Mountains,” and an abundance of scenic coves along the 133-mile shoreline are great for fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and water sports. Lake Chatuge encompasses about 7,200 acres, 3,700 of which lie in Clay County. The Weir, just north of the dam, offers picnic tables and a launch for canoes and tubes for a trip on the Hiawassee River to a take-out area near Fires Creek Wildlife Management Area. Call TVA for information regarding water conditions and release schedules at 828-389-7395 or 1-800-TVA-LAND.

Fires Creek Wildlife Management Area is an outstanding recreation area for picnicking, hiking, backpacking, camping, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing for rainbow, brook, or brown trout. Leatherwood Falls is the point of origin for the 25 mile Rim Trail, but a short loop trail suitable for beginners will take one around the top of the falls. The Rim Trail follows the ridge around Fires Creek and provides scenic vistas as it winds through several high elevation balds; there are also a number of spur trails into the basin, and horse trails. Tables and grills at Fires Creek are situated in a wooded picnic area which is handicap accessible, and is located near the base of the falls, alongside a refreshing mountain stream. Some camping is permitted along the creeks and roads of the wildlife refuge, and thee are two primitive camping areas, one of which is divided into a developed horse camp. From Main Street on the Town Square, make a left turn onto Tusquittee Street. Follow this road around, crossing the Tom Day Bridge, and turn left again onto Fires Creek Road (SR 1300). Travel 5.7 miles to SR 1344 and turn right. Proceed along this creek-side road 1.8 miles to the parking area on the left. This picnic area is across the wooden bridge. “Bear” to your left to pick up Leatherwood Falls Loop Trail. 828-837-5152.