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ForestMatters, LLC

Clemmer Trail

Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee · 3 min read

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

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
Limited
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Parksville Lake views from the Chilhowee Mountain ridge
  • Well-maintained trail with good footing throughout
  • Access to Chilhowee Recreation Area with swimming and camping
  • Mixed hardwood ridge forest with spring wildflowers
  • Good starting point for exploring the southern unit

Overview

The Clemmer Trail climbs from the Chilhowee Recreation Area on the south shore of Parksville Lake to the ridge of Chilhowee Mountain, providing lake views and a solid ridge walk in the southern unit of Cherokee National Forest. The Chilhowee Recreation Area is one of the most developed recreation complexes in the forest, with a swimming beach, campground, and picnic facilities, making the Clemmer Trail an easy add-on to a lake-focused day.

The trail receives consistent maintenance and offers well-graded hiking for most of its length, making it a reliable choice for visiting the southern unit.

The Route

Miles 0.0 to 0.8: Recreation Area to Ridge Base

The trail departs the Chilhowee Recreation Area and climbs through mixed hardwood on the mountain's lower slopes. The grade is moderate and steady.

Miles 0.8 to 1.9: Ridge Climb and Lake Views

The trail gains the Chilhowee Mountain ridge and follows it with periodic openings giving views down to Parksville Lake and the Ocoee River valley. The highest point of the hike offers the broadest lake perspective.

Miles 1.9 to 3.8: Return

Return via the same route. The lake views on the descent are equally good, often with better afternoon light.

When to Hike

April through May brings spring wildflowers and fresh green foliage.

September through October delivers clear views and fall color across the lake.

June through August works well combined with a swim at the Chilhowee beach before or after hiking.

November through March the lake views improve with bare trees; the recreation area may be closed for the season.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. Water is available at the recreation area trailhead. Sunscreen matters on the exposed ridge sections.

Trailhead Access

The Clemmer Trail starts at the Chilhowee Recreation Area off US-64 in Polk County. A day-use fee applies for parking in the recreation area (as of 2026). Flush restrooms and potable water available at the recreation area. Chilhowee Campground has 88 reservable sites adjacent to the trailhead area. Dogs must be leashed.

Nearby

Benton MacKaye Trail: Ocoee Section is accessible from the same US-64 corridor and provides a longer, more remote ridge experience. Coker Creek Falls Trail offers a waterfall option in the same general southern unit.

Check recreation area operating status and day-use hours at checking conditions before you go before your visit. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout.

Trailhead Parking

Clemmer Trail trailhead at Chilhowee Recreation Area off US-64. Paved parking area with facilities.

← Back to Cherokee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Clemmer Trail take?
The 3.8-mile out-and-back takes most hikers 2 to 3 hours.
Is there a fee for the Chilhowee Recreation Area?
Yes. The Chilhowee Recreation Area charges a day-use fee for parking (as of 2026). The America the Beautiful Pass covers this fee.
Is the Clemmer Trail dog friendly?
Dogs are allowed on the trail and must be leashed in the recreation area. The ridge terrain is straightforward for dogs.