Conasauga Creek facts for kids

Conasauga Creek is a stream in southeast Tennessee, United States. It is about 42.8-mile-long (68.9 km). This creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger river. Conasauga Creek flows into the Hiwassee River. Be careful not to confuse it with the nearby Conasauga River, which is a different waterway.

Where Does Conasauga Creek Flow?

Conasauga Creek begins high up in the Unicoi Mountains. These mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountains range. The creek starts in an area called Monroe County.

Journey Through the Mountains

As the creek flows, it passes near the small town of Coker Creek. It generally moves northeast, winding its way between two mountains called Mocking Crow Mountain and Pine Mountain. After this, it reaches a valley known as Rural Vale.

The creek then curves around the northern tip of Starr Mountain. This mountain is important because it marks a change in the landscape. It separates the taller peaks of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains from the lower, rolling hills of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians.

Reaching the Hiwassee River

After leaving the higher mountains, Conasauga Creek flows past the town of Etowah. This town is located in McMinn County. Finally, the creek reaches its end in Polk County. Here, it joins the Hiwassee River, adding its waters to the larger river.

A Path Through History

The valley where Conasauga Creek flows has a rich history. Long ago, it was part of an important route called the Warrior Path. This was a major trail used by the Cherokee people.

Connecting Ancient Towns

The Warrior Path helped connect important Cherokee towns. It linked Great Hiwassee, a town located on the Hiwassee River, with Great Tellico, a town on the Tellico River. This shows how important the creek's valley was for travel and communication in the past.