Apalachia Dam, also known as Apalachia Lake, is a captivating structure located in Cherokee, North Carolina, along the Hiwassee River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1943 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this concrete gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 150 feet, with a hydraulic height of 122 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is hydroelectric power generation, while also serving as a recreational area for water enthusiasts.
With a maximum storage capacity of 63,456 acre-feet and a normal storage of 55,524 acre-feet, Apalachia Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 320 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 164,000 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and efficiency of its operations. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by TVA to maintain its structural integrity and ensure public safety.
Apalachia Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity of civil engineering and the importance of harnessing water resources for sustainable energy production. Its scenic location, combined with its vital role in water management and power generation, makes it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to witness the intersection of nature and human innovation.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
1308 |
Dam Height |
150 |
River Or Stream |
HIWASSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1100 |
Hydraulic Height |
122 |
Drainage Area |
1018 |
Nid Storage |
63456 |
Structural Height |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
150 |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
301cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
178cfs |
Valley River At Tomotla
|
268cfs |
Oostanaula Creek Near Sanford
|
46cfs |
Toccoa River Near Dial
|
279cfs |
Hiwassee River At Charleston
|
10400cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Big Lost Creek
|
||
Lost Creek Campground
|
||
Holly Flats Campground
|
||
Holly Flats
|