Muddy Boots - Benton Falls Trail – Cherokee National Forest

Monday - July 8, 2024

Hike Description:  This lovely hike begins near the Chilhowee Tent Campground. The trail gradually descends until reaching the stunning Benton Falls, a cascading waterfall that stands at about 65 feet tall. Visitors can admire a beautiful Appalachian scenery and lush forest with varying terrain. AllTrails says it’s an easy trail, but reviewers say there is quite a climb back up from the falls and at times it can be slippery. Wear your hiking boots and bring poles if you have them. Expect rocks, roots, and bugs in July. Bring the bug spray. Bathrooms located nearby in the beach area. Park in lower lot for trail.

*Change was made as Turtle Falls Trail is closed for maintenance. Cathie says the waterfall is worth the drive!

Length of Hike: 3 miles total out and back (Falls are 1.5 miles from trailhead) Average time: 1 hr. 11 min.

Elevation range – 308 feet

Hike Leaders:  Cathie Dunn

Rating: Easy (see hike description for details)

Meeting Location: We will meet at 7:45 AM at 100 Chota Road across from the Marathon gas station.  There we will give a quick rundown of the hike and provide driving directions.  Car pools will be worked out at this meeting.  Wheels rolling at 8 AM sharp.  There is a day-use fee for parking $3.00. Please bring some extra cash to reimburse your driver for gas if you carpool.  

Location/Distance/Drive Time/Return time: Cherokee National Forest/64 miles/1 hr 43 min/1:00pm (depending on time spent at Waterfall and traffic)

Directions: Turn right on 444 and drive 3.5 miles, then turn left on TN-72 and drive 6 miles, then turn right onto HWY 411 S for 37 miles, then turn left onto TN-314 S/Parksville Road and drive 6.1 miles, then make a slight left onto US-64 E/US-74 E and drive for 3 miles, then turn left onto Oswald Road and drive 7.4 miles, then turn right 0.4 miles, turn left 0.2 miles, and a sharp right 250 feet to park.  

Be Prepared:  Hiking boots, water, snacks, and hiking poles optional, but all are recommended.  Hiking involves some exertion and often walking on uneven surfaces with rocks and roots.  While we do our best to describe any trail challenges and conditions, you are hiking at your own risk.

In the event of a situation requiring medical intervention during a hike, we suggest that each participant wear their name tag and bring a Photo ID (generally driver’s license) and Medical Information cards (Health Insurance Card or Medicare & supplemental Health Insurance Cards).

Lunch:  On your own. 

Muddy Boots Coordinators:       Jeri & Cam Weems                     313-657-4235  [email protected]

                                                       Mark & Debbie Steadham           815-483-9358 [email protected]

No registration - Open to all Villagers & Guests - Just show up!