Leave early to make the drive comfortably with rest stops; route runs generally south past Cincinnati and Knoxville toward Reliance. Plan for ~7–9 hours driving depending on stops and traffic.
Check in (4:00 PM). Unpack, confirm cabin amenities (full kitchen, hot tub) and locate the dog area/yard. Walk the immediate property to get your dog comfortable.
Gentle, mostly flat rail-trail along the Hiwassee River ideal for an easy post-drive stretch; dog-friendly on leash and low-impact for a back injury. Trails are typically accessible dawn–dusk; pick an out-and-back of 20–40 minutes.
Use the full kitchen for a low-effort dinner (pasta with pre-made sauce, grilled veggies, or a simple sheet-pan meal); cooking lets you control rest and dog care after a long drive. Nearest grocery or convenience store is in Benton/Copperhill if you need last-minute supplies.
Soak in the cabin hot tub to ease travel stiffness (limit sessions to 20–30 minutes if you have a back issue; check with your physician). Enjoy an early night to recover for hiking days.
Eat an easy, nourishing breakfast in the cabin (oatmeal, fruit, coffee). Pack water and a sandwich or wraps for lunch to take to Bald River Falls — the kitchen makes packing simple.
Return to the Hiwassee River Rail Trail for a gentler longer walk (choose a 1–2 mile out-and-back). The rail-trail is low-grade, mostly flat, and perfect for protecting a sensitive back while enjoying river/valley views; open dawn–dusk and free to use.
Scenic drive into Cherokee National Forest toward Bald River Falls; the road into the Bald River Gorge leads to a short paved overlook area. Driving time depends on exact cabin location — plan 30–50 minutes.
A spectacular 90-foot waterfall with a short, relatively level paved spur from the parking area to a sturdy viewing platform — excellent for photos and minimal walking. Trail/access generally open day-use hours (dawn–dusk); free.
Enjoy the packed lunch near the falls or a nearby picnic area — peaceful setting and saves time for more low-impact exploring. Bring a blanket and shade; be mindful of wildlife and leash rules.
Visit the Ocoee Whitewater Center for easy spectator trails along the river, flat sections and picnic areas; the visitor center is typically open 9:00am–5:00pm, while grounds/trails are open dawn–dusk. Good spot for photos and gentle walks.
Drive 10–25 minutes to nearby Copperhill/McCaysville or Benton for a casual dinner if you want to eat out — choose a riverside café or local grill (hours vary; many close ~8–9 PM). Otherwise, cook at the cabin for convenience.
Have breakfast in-cabin for a flexible start; if you prefer a café, Tellico Plains has small bakeries/cafés that open ~8:00am (hours vary). Pack water and light snacks for the scenic drive.
Drive portions of the Cherohala Skyway for high-elevation mountain views and many easy overlook pullouts; ideal if you want mountain scenery without strenuous hiking. The Skyway is open daylight hours (dawn–dusk for safe viewing).
Stop in Tellico Plains for a relaxed lunch at a local café or a riverside picnic; downtown options vary so check hours on arrival — a picnic from the cabin kitchen is a reliable alternative.
Short, gentle riverside stroll or shallow wading spots along the Tellico River (watch the footing for your back). Great low-impact time outdoors and dog-friendly on leash; daylight hours recommended.
Window-shop and stroll the twin river towns of Copperhill (TN) and McCaysville (GA) — short, flat sidewalks and riverfront parks make for a gentle afternoon outing with your dog on leash. Many shops close by early evening; plan accordingly.
Either enjoy a relaxed cabin-cooked meal or try a nearby diner; keeping dinner low-salt and protein-focused will help muscle recovery after the drives and walks.
Return to the Whitewater Center for a different loop or the visitor center exhibits (visitor center often 9:00am–5:00pm). The grounds are great for low-impact walking, watching kayakers, and river photography.
If you want a mellow water experience, consider a gentle guided float or a short half-day trout fishing trip on the Hiwassee — many outfitters offer calmer options; confirm dog/pet policy and back-friendliness before booking. Outfitters typically require reservations and fees.
Treat yourselves to a nicer dinner in Copperhill/McCaysville or nearby Benton (check local hours; many sit-down restaurants take reservations). If staying in, try a grilled steak/fish and roasted vegetables from the cabin kitchen.
One last gentle walk on the Hiwassee River Rail Trail — low-impact, flat, and perfect for loosening up before a long drive. Use daylight hours; dog on leash.
Estimated arrival back home depending on stops and traffic. Unpack slowly, gentle stretching for your back, and check your dog for ticks/irritations from the trip.
More About September 1-5, 2025 traveling to Lost Cabins, Mountain Man Cabin in Reliance, Tennessee from Fort Wayne, IN with a check in time of 4 PM on September 1st and a check out time of 11 AM on September 5th. Our cabin has a full kitchen and a hot tub. We are bringing our 75 lb dog along for adventure and are hoping to do some hiking to see the mountains and waterfalls. Hoping to find some easier hikes for a back injury accommodation.