Magazine Branch Boat Ramp

The Magazine Branch Boat Ramp provides access to the Cheoah River, a large river in western North Carolina. The Cheoah is a 6th order stream with a total drop of 891 feet over its 18.44-mile length, resulting in an average gradient of 48.3 feet per mile. Flows average 557 cubic feet per second, making this a substantial river suitable for experienced paddlers and motorized boaters.

The boat ramp is located just below Fontana Dam and is accessible via a dirt road off NC Highway 129. It is a free facility maintained by Brookfield Smoky Mountain Hydropower, which operates the dams along the Little Tennessee River system. The ramp and adjacent pier provide direct access to Cheoah Lake, a reservoir formed by the dam. Nearby campgrounds are available for those looking to extend their river visit.

Paddlers and boaters should exercise caution on the Cheoah River due to its size, flow, and steep gradient. The water can be powerful and the river bed is rocky, so experience and proper equipment are recommended. Those new to the area may want to consult local sources for the latest river conditions and hazard information before launching.

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act by taking a day hike to Falls Branch Falls located in the Citico Creek Wilderness. To help visitors plan their adventure and enjoy this featured day hike, Johnny Molloy, Outdoor Writer & Board Member of Partners of the Cherokee National Forest, has provided an excerpt from his book, Waterfall Hiking Tennessee, Falls Branch Falls Hike.The...

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act by taking a day hike to Falls Branch Falls located in the Citico Creek Wilderness. To help visitors plan their adventure and enjoy this featured day hike, Johnny Molloy, Outdoor Writer & Board Member of Partners of the Cherokee National Forest, has provided an excerpt from his book, Waterfall Hiking Tennessee, Falls Branch Falls Hike.The Falls Branch Trail #87 is a 1.3-mile trail (2.6-mile round trip) that leads to Falls Branch Falls, a 70-foot waterfall. Please note that this trail is located within congressionally designated Wilderness, a primitive area where trail signing and blazing are minimal.The majority of the trail follows an old roadbed, but it eventually leaves the roadbed and becomes narrow, steep, and rocky closer to the waterfall. 

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