TENNESSEE - Tennessee is a state blessed with an abundance of beautiful and dynamic waterways, from the mighty Mississippi to the cool, clear streams of the Great Smoky Mountains. While defining a single "cleanest" river can be complex, several rivers in the state, particularly in East Tennessee, are consistently celebrated for their exceptional water quality, clarity, and thriving ecosystems. These pristine rivers serve as havens for wildlife and provide incredible recreational opportunities.
TENNESSEE - Tennessee is a state blessed with an abundance of beautiful and dynamic waterways, from the mighty Mississippi to the cool, clear streams of the Great Smoky Mountains. While defining a single "cleanest" river can be complex, several rivers in the state, particularly in East Tennessee, are consistently celebrated for their exceptional water quality, clarity, and thriving ecosystems. These pristine rivers serve as havens for wildlife and provide incredible recreational opportunities.Tennessee's Pristine Streams: A Guide to the State's Cleanest Rivers
The Smoky Mountain Jewel: The Little River
In the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Little River is often lauded as one of the cleanest and most beautiful rivers in Tennessee.
- Why It's a Top Spot: Originating high within the protected wilderness of the national park, its water is obvious, cold, and pure. This high quality supports a healthy, wild population of native brook trout, a key indicator of a pristine environment.
- The Experience: It is one of the most popular destinations in the Smokies for tubing, swimming, and fly fishing. Its scenic course, dotted with large boulders and surrounded by lush forest, makes it exceptionally picturesque.
The Trout Haven: The Tellico River
Located in the Cherokee National Forest, the Tellico River is another gem of East Tennessee, renowned for its clean water and status as a premier trout fishing destination.
- Why It's a Top Spot: The Tellico is heavily stocked with trout and also supports wild populations, which can only survive in cold, clean, well-oxygenated water. The river flows through a beautiful, rugged landscape, featuring stunning waterfalls like the famous Bald River Falls (a tributary).
- The Experience: It's a paradise for anglers and nature lovers, offering fantastic fishing, hiking, and photography opportunities in a pristine setting.
The Scenic River: The Hiwassee River
Designated as a State Scenic River, the Hiwassee River in southeastern Tennessee is another waterway renowned for its exceptional water quality.
- Why It's a Top Spot: The tailwater section below the Apalachia Dam provides a long stretch of consistently cold and clear water, making it another top-tier destination for trout fishing.
- The Experience: The Hiwassee is renowned for its popularity among drift boat fishermen and kayakers, offering miles of breathtaking scenery and easily accessible water.
The Official Standard: Exceptional Tennessee Waters
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) designates its highest-quality waterways as "Exceptional Tennessee Waters" (ETW). Many of the state's cleanest rivers, including the Little River and sections of the Tellico and Hiwassee, hold this official designation, which affords them the state's highest level of water quality protection.
While Tennessee has many beautiful rivers, the streams and rivers originating in the protected mountains of East Tennessee—like the Little River, Tellico River, and Hiwassee River—are consistently recognized as the state's cleanest. Their crystal-clear water, ability to support thriving trout populations, and breathtaking scenery make them invaluable natural treasures for the Volunteer State.
Sources:
- Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC)
- National Park Service (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
- U.S. Forest Service (Cherokee National Forest)
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)
- Trout Unlimited
