Lake Chatuge/Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area
[Fig.
32(17)] In Cherokee legend Tusquitee refers to the place "where
the water dogs laughed." This area, now a part of the Nantahala National
Forest in Clay County, has one of the most scenic lakes in the Tennessee Valley
Authority (TVA) system. The 130 miles of shoreline around Lake Chatuge is magnificently
framed by the nearby Tusquitee Mountains and "the Great Blue Hills of God,"
as the Cherokee called the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Chatuge Dam is 144 feet
high, and the lake supports water sports and recreation. The fishing is good
with more than 32 species in the lake. Jackrabbit Mountain Recreation Area is
situated on a pine-wooded peninsula with hiking trails that offer pleasing views
of Lake Chatuge. It isn't just the abundant salamanders who find reason for
mirth in this popular family recreation area. Clay County Recreation Park is
also popular with families.
- Directions:. Jackrabbit Mountain: From Hayesville, travel east on
US 64, turn south and travel 2.5 miles on NC 175, turn right on SR 1155. Clay
County Recreation Park: 6.2 miles east from Hayesville on US 64 (turn right
onto NC 175).
- Activities: Fishing, swimming, skiing, camping, boating, hiking.
- Facilities: Clay County Recreation Park: 25 campsites, picnic shelters,
ball field, swimming area, and a boat-launching ramp. Jackrabbit Mountain:
103 camping sites, swimming beach with showers, hiking trails, picnic areas,
and a boat launching ramp.
- Fees: There is a charge for camping.
- Closest town: Hayesville, approximately 6 miles.
Jackrabbit Mountain Scenic Trail
- Trail distance and configuration: 2.4 miles.
- Degree of difficulty: Easy.
- Elevation: 1,200 feet.
- Surface and blaze: Forest floor; blue blaze.
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