Trails

The purpose of the East Lakeshore Trail project is to provide a recreational and educational hiking trail along a portion of the east shoreline of Tellico Lake.

Bob Martin
Phone: 865-458-9233

Construction of the East Lakeshore Trail is a joint venture between WATeR and the Tennessee Valley Authority.  It is being built mainly with volunteer labor.  The concept began in 2002 and was solidified with a formal cooperative agreement between WATeR and TVA in 2003. Now it is a reality with completion of over 21 miles of trail.   It is envisioned that the trail could ultimately consist of about 35 miles.  The project involves initial trail layout, trail construction including installation of bridges, water bars, fence stiles and timber stair treads as needed, development of trailhead parking areas with kiosk bulletin boards, scenic view areas with benches, and boat landing areas making the trail accessible by water.  Some segments of the trail are identified as self guided interpretive trails for environmental education purposes.  Currently, the East Lakeshore Trail consists of six completed segments available for public use and enjoyment.   From north to south they are: the Davis Ferry Branch (2 miles), the Glendale Branch (3 miles), the Coytee Loop Branch (2.4 miles), the Sinking Creek Branch (4.5 miles), the Lotterdale branch (3.8 miles) and the Jackson Bend Branch (5.1 miles). In addition, about 0.4 miles of shortcut and connector trail has been built. The seventh and final branch southward (Morganton Branch) is under construction.

Another important aspect of the trail system is the Adopt a Trail maintenance project. Volunteers are assigned to specific trail sections and are responsible for maintaining their sections on a monthly basis. Those interested in volunteering may contact the Adopt a Trail Coordinator, Lou Livengood - (865) 408-9122.

East Lakeshore Trail is located along the east shoreline of Tellico Lake opposite Tellico Village.  The completed portion of the trail lies between mile 5 and mile 13 of the Little Tennessee River channel.    Access to the trail is provided at three existing trailheads with vehicle parking for 15 to 20 vehicles.  Each trailhead has an information bulletin board kiosk with a large map of the trail. Smaller take-along maps and WATeR brochures are also supplied. Three signed boat-landing areas provide easy access to the trail for boaters. 

Detailed information with maps, interpretive guides, and directions to the trailheads is available on the East Lakeshore Trail menu item of the WATeR website.

Work on the East Lakeshore Trail is performed 3 days a month: the first Monday, the second Tuesday and the third Wednesday.  Those wanting to volunteer their time to a worthwhile community project can call Bob Martin @ (865) 458-9233 or Larry Smartt @ (865) 408-1541.