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Benton MacKaye Trail: Ocoee Section

Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee · 3 min read

Distance
5.5 mi
Elevation Gain
750 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
March through November
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Ocoee River views from ridge trail above the canyon
  • Benton MacKaye Trail, the companion long trail to the Appalachian Trail
  • Ridge walking through mixed pine-hardwood in the southern unit
  • Access to one of the premier whitewater rivers in the Southeast
  • Less crowded than AT-adjacent trails

Overview

The Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) is named for the forester and regional planner who proposed the Appalachian Trail in 1921. The 300-mile BMT runs from Springer Mountain, Georgia north through Tennessee and North Carolina, intersecting the AT at several points. The Ocoee Section passes through the southern unit of Cherokee National Forest above the Ocoee River canyon, offering river views from the ridge that most visitors to the Ocoee see only from the highway.

The trail receives far less traffic than the AT sections to the north, making it one of the better options for solitude in this part of the forest.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 1.0: Trailhead to Ridge

The trail climbs from the US-64 trailhead through mixed pine and hardwood, gaining the ridge within the first mile. The grade is moderate but sustained on the initial climb.

Miles 1.0 to 2.5: Ridge Traverse with Ocoee Views

The trail follows the ridge above the Ocoee River canyon. Multiple viewpoints appear where the trees thin, looking down at the river and across to the opposite ridge. The Ocoee gorge is visible below but the trail stays well above it.

Miles 2.5 to 2.75: Turnaround Area

The trail continues beyond this point for those doing longer BMT sections. For a day hike, a clearing with good views serves as the natural turnaround.

Miles 2.75 to 5.5: Return

Descend the same route back to the trailhead.

When to Hike

March through May provides spring greenery and reliable river views before the full leaf-out.

September through October brings the clearest ridge views and fall color in the valley below.

June through August is warm on the south-facing ridge; carry extra water.

November through March delivers the best long views when leaves are off.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this hike; there is no water source on the ridge section. Sun protection applies to the exposed ridge portions. A map of the Benton MacKaye Trail is helpful as signage can be sparse.

Trailhead Access

The BMT Ocoee Section trailhead is located off US-64 near the Ocoee River in Polk County. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). No facilities at the trailhead. Dogs must be leashed. Limited parking; arrive early on weekends.

Nearby

Coker Creek Falls Trail is in the same southern unit area and provides a waterfall-focused alternative. Unicoi Mountain Trail offers old-growth forest and ridge views to the north.

Check conditions at checking conditions before you go before your visit. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Ocoee Section BMT trailhead off US-64 near Ocoee. Roadside pullout; limited to 6-8 vehicles.

← Back to Cherokee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Benton MacKaye Ocoee section take?
The 5.5-mile out-and-back takes most hikers 3 to 4 hours.
What is the Benton MacKaye Trail?
The Benton MacKaye Trail is a 300-mile long trail named for the forester who proposed the Appalachian Trail. It begins at Springer Mountain in Georgia and runs through Tennessee and North Carolina, paralleling and intersecting the AT at various points.
Is the Benton MacKaye Ocoee section dog friendly?
Dogs are permitted and should be leashed on the trail.