Polk County, TN
What is the history of Polk County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
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- established in 1839
- named in honor of President James K. Polk, who was born in neighboring Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.Â
- was originally home to the Cherokee Native American tribe, who were forced to relocate to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears in the 1830s
- The county played a minor role in the Civil War, with a few skirmishes occurring in the area.
Notable landmarks:
- Ocoee Whitewater Center
- was built for the 1996 Olympic Games
- now a popular destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and hiking.
- Hiwassee River Rail Adventure
- Visitors can take a scenic train ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge on a vintage train.
- Old Copper Road
- was used to transport copper from the Copper Basin in the late 1800s and early 1900s.Â
- The road is now a popular hiking and mountain biking trail.
- Ducktown Basin Museum
- This museum tells the story of the copper mining industry in the area and its impact on the environment and community.
- Cherokee National Forest
- A portion of the Cherokee National Forest is located in Polk County, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.
- The Historic Polk County Courthouse
- was built in 1899 and is still in use today
- a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture.
What are the recreational activities available in Polk County, TN?
- Whitewater rafting and kayaking: The Ocoee River, which runs through Polk County, is one of the most popular whitewater rafting and kayaking destinations in the country. The Ocoee Whitewater Center offers guided trips and equipment rentals.
- Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails throughout the county, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous hikes in the mountains. The Benton MacKaye Trail, the John Muir Trail, and the Tanasi Trail System are all popular options.
- Camping: There are several campgrounds in Polk County, including the Ocoee River Campground and the Parksville Lake Campground. These campgrounds offer tent and RV camping, as well as amenities like showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
- Fishing: The Hiwassee River, the Ocoee River, and Parksville Lake all offer opportunities for fishing. Visitors can catch trout, bass, and other types of fish in these waterways.
- Mountain biking: The Tanasi Trail System is a popular destination for mountain bikers, with over 30 miles of trails that range in difficulty.
- Scenic drives: Polk County is home to several scenic drives, including the Ocoee Scenic Byway and the Cherohala Skyway. These drives offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
