The John Muir Trail covers 18.8 miles following the Hiwassee River from Childers Creek near Reliance to Highway 68 at Farner. The first three-mile section is rated easy. Other sections can be challenging. This trail offers diverse and unique terrain and a great watchable wildlife area.
On this hike you will walk through many areas of laurel and rhododendron. Along the top of the plateau you will have several spectacular views.

Related Activities: camping

Address: Polk County, TN

Distance from Outdoor Chattanooga HQ: 1 hour 30 minutes drive

Map(s) and directions: This National Recreation Trail begins at the Childers Creek parking lot near Reliance and ends on FDR #311 in Monroe Country near Farner. The trail follows the Hiwassee State Scenic River with access to several recreation sites along the way. Parking is available at Childers Creek, Big Bend, Towee, Powerhouse Boat Launch, Coker Creek Trail junction, Highway 68 and FDR #311. Directions: From Etowah, take Highway 411 south to the junction to Highway 30. Turn east on Highway 30 to Reliance. Turn left onto Highway 315 and cross the Hiwassee River and take the first right (after crossing railroad tracks).

Activity type: moderate to difficult

Dates/Hours: open year round except Christmas. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. November to May, and until 6:00 p.m June through October.

Estimated Time: 18 miles of trails