Planning a whitewater rafting trip with Outland Expeditions on the Ocoee River? Get ready for a wild ride. This stretch of water in southeastern Tennessee is famous for its Class III and IV rapids, Olympic history, and adrenaline-pumping adventure. But while most visitors come for the rush, many overlook the equally stunning vistas that surround this natural playground.

The Cherokee National Forest, which envelopes the Ocoee River region, is home to some of the most scenic and accessible overlooks in the Southeast. Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, peaceful moments, or perfect photo ops, these spots offer an incredible complement to your rafting experience.

From family-friendly viewpoints to rugged mountain trails, here’s your guide to the top scenic vistas to explore before or after your Ocoee River trip.

Chilhowee Overlook: A Must-See Above the Trees

Located just off the Chilhowee Scenic Drive, the Chilhowee Overlook provides a wide-open view of Parksville Lake and the surrounding Appalachian foothills. It’s one of the most visited overlooks in the region—and for good reason.

A short, well-maintained drive takes you directly to this overlook, which makes it accessible for all visitors, including families with children or older adults. No hiking gear necessary—just a good camera and a little time to soak in the scenery.

The overlook is especially popular during sunrise and sunset when soft light filters through the Smoky-blue ridges in the distance. If you have more time, continue along the drive to check out Benton Falls Trail or picnic beside McKamy Lake in the Chilhowee Recreation Area.

Big Frog Mountain: For the True Outdoor Enthusiast

Rising to 4,224 feet, Big Frog Mountain is the crown jewel of the Big Frog Wilderness, located near the Tennessee-Georgia border. This is not your typical roadside view. Reaching the summit requires a strenuous hike, typically accessed from the Licklog Ridge Trail or the Rough Creek Trail.

What makes Big Frog special—aside from the challenge—is its solitude. On many days, you’ll have the summit all to yourself. The views stretch deep into the heart of the Cherokee National Forest and beyond into Georgia and North Carolina.

For experienced hikers and backpackers, this is one of the most rewarding treks in the region. And after conquering the rapids, the stillness of the mountaintop offers the perfect contrast to a day of high-energy rafting.

Parksville Lake: A Calm Counterpoint to the Rapids

If you’re seeking serenity after battling whitewater, Parksville Lake—also referred to as Ocoee Lake—offers exactly that. This dammed reservoir on the lower Ocoee River is known for its calm waters, forested shoreline, and recreational access points.

Spend some time relaxing along its shores, paddle out in a kayak, or bring lunch and enjoy a lakeside picnic. The lake is surrounded by gentle hills, and in the fall, the foliage creates a vibrant frame for the still waters.

Located just minutes from Outland Expeditions’ base, Parksville Lake is one of the easiest and most relaxing scenic spots to reach. It’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone wanting to extend the outdoor experience without a hike.

Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook: Iconic Views Without the Crowds

Just off U.S. Highway 64, Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook gives visitors sweeping views of the Tennessee River Valley and surrounding ranges. It’s a lesser-known spot, so you won’t find heavy tourist traffic here—just wide skies and impressive elevation.

It’s an excellent place to catch the golden hour light as the sun dips below the ridges. Many visitors pair this stop with a rafting trip or include it in a driving loop through the Cherokee National Forest. The overlook is high enough to give you the sensation of being in the clouds, especially on early misty mornings.

There’s minimal walking involved, making this a great stop even if you’re sore from paddling. It’s one of those places where the view stops you in your tracks and the photos practically take themselves.

Oswald Dome Road: A Drive Through the Sky

Oswald Dome Road may not be a destination in itself, but it’s a scenic backroad worth exploring either before or after your Ocoee River trip. Running along the spine of Oswald Dome, this gravel and dirt road features multiple pull-offs with incredible views of the Hiwassee River Valley, Ocoee Gorge, and even Lake Ocoee.

This is an ideal route for those who want to explore the region without taking on a major hike. Bring a thermos of coffee or cold drinks and make a slow drive out of it. You might even spot hawks circling overhead or deer grazing in roadside clearings.

The road links back to other trailheads, so it’s a great connector for the more adventurous traveler who wants a taste of everything—mountain roads, forest trails, and big open views.

Gee Creek Wilderness: Hidden Trails and Quiet Overlooks

If you want to escape the crowds entirely, head to the Gee Creek Wilderness, a lesser-known section of the Cherokee National Forest known for its remote feel and natural beauty. This area features several hiking trails like the Gee Creek Trail, which follows a cascading stream up into higher terrain.

While the trail doesn’t lead to a single, iconic vista, the experience itself is scenic throughout—dense rhododendron tunnels, moss-covered boulders, and natural overlooks that reveal glimpses of surrounding ridges.

This is a great place to unplug and unwind. It’s especially appealing for those looking to immerse themselves in the quiet side of Tennessee’s wilderness, far from the energy of the riverbanks.

Why These Scenic Vistas Matter to Your Ocoee Trip

Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee is unforgettable—but it’s only part of the picture. The real magic of this region is how easily adventure transitions into awe. Within just a few miles of the river, you can go from charging through rapids to quietly watching fog lift off mountain peaks.

These scenic vistas turn a one-day rafting trip into a multidimensional travel experience. They allow you to see why southeastern Tennessee is cherished not just for adrenaline sports, but for its breathtaking natural beauty.

For families, couples, solo travelers, or groups, adding a scenic stop to your trip gives you time to reconnect—with nature and each other.

How to Make the Most of Your Time in the Region

While rafting is the main draw, consider making your Ocoee River trip part of a longer weekend or mini-vacation. Here are a few practical ways to elevate your experience:

Arrive a day early to catch a sunset at Chilhowee Overlook or Sugarloaf Mountain.
Stay overnight at a local cabin or campsite and plan a sunrise drive along Oswald Dome Road.
Pack versatile gear: quick-dry clothes for rafting, hiking boots for the trails, and a camera for the views.
Choose your adventure level: Whether you’re after easy scenic drives or challenging hikes, the region delivers both.

More Than a Rafting Trip—It’s a Gateway to the Outdoors

Outland Expeditions offers more than a thrilling river run. With so many incredible scenic vistas nearby, your adventure doesn’t have to end when you dry off. In fact, that’s when a whole new type of adventure begins.

From high-elevation overlooks to tranquil lakeshores and wilderness trails, southeastern Tennessee offers some of the most diverse natural experiences in the region. Pairing a whitewater trip with a scenic exploration gives you the best of both worlds: heart-racing excitement and soul-refreshing beauty.

Start your day with a paddle and end it with a panoramic sunset—because some memories are made off the water, too.

Plan Your Ocoee River Adventure Today

Your Ocoee River journey starts with Outland Expeditions, but it doesn’t have to end there. Take the road less traveled. Explore the scenic vistas that surround one of the most iconic rafting rivers in the country. Whether you’re looking for reflection, reconnection, or a rush of awe, it’s all right here—just beyond the rapids.

Plan your Ocoee River adventure today and uncover the scenic beauty that elevates every moment.

Top Scenic Views Near the Ocoee River You Can’t Miss