The Mossy Creek Water Trail Project
Mossy Creek, a serene spring-fed stream flowing through the heart of Jefferson City, Tennessee, is at the center of a dynamic revitalization effort aimed at transforming it into a signature tourism asset for the region. Named for the vibrant moss that once lined its banks, the creek winds through both rural and urban landscapes before merging into Cherokee Lake, part of the Holston River system.
More than just a natural landmark, Mossy Creek is now a focal point for community-led redevelopment. At the forefront is the Mossy Creek Foundation, which is spearheading efforts to restore the creek's ecological health while enhancing its value as a destination. Through strategic investments in public access, environmental stewardship, and heritage preservation, the foundation is breathing new life into the area.
By integrating natural beauty with cultural history, the revitalization of Mossy Creek is laying the groundwork for sustainable tourism, economic development, and enhanced quality of life. It is becoming not only a symbol of community pride, but also a vibrant attraction for visitors seeking authentic East Tennessee experiences.
Join us to celebrate our clean up efforts and kick off the floating season.
Open to Float
Join us in downtown Jefferson City to celebrate the opening of “Float The Mossy”. Countless volunteer hours have been spent clearing and cleaning and we want to celebrate with live music, community engagement opportunities, and of course a trip on Jefferson' City’s very own blue way.
Visit our the Mossy Creek Collective Facebook Page to RSVP.
Know Before You Go
Please remember to tread lightly while in our fragile ecosystems. Pack out all trash, look but don't touch wildlife, and respect private property boundaries. Remember to wear a PFD Life Jacket at all times.
Mossy Creek Water Trail is a public waterway currently under development.
Use of the Mossy Creek Water Trail is entirely at your own risk. This is a public waterway, and conditions may vary due to weather, water levels, and other natural factors. All individuals are responsible for their own safety while floating, paddling, or engaging in any other activity on the water.
By accessing or using the Mossy Creek Water Trail, you agree to hold harmless and indemnify all associated parties, including but not limited to landowners, municipalities, sponsors, and organizations involved in the development or promotion of the waterway.
In case of emergency, dial 911.
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Float The Mossy is a water trail float down the Mossy Creek in Jefferson City, TN. Small boats or sturdy floats(tubes) are recommended as most areas can be narrow or shallow. Floaters will need to provide their own equipment and float at their own risk.
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The official community opening is a few weeks away. There's more work to do to make it safe for public use. The more volunteers we have the more we can get done, so watch for those cleanup days in the time leading up to the official launch later in May 2025. The start or "put-in" will be located behind Carson Newman near the creek where the gravel meets the culvert into the water.
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It is just beyond the Mossy Creek Wildlife Viewing Area parking lot. Vehicle parking will be available at the Wildlife Viewing Area surface lot as well as above the takeout along the road. There are safety cameras installed here.
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If you float the full creek it can take between one(1) and two(2) hours, depending on flow rates of the water. Our hope is to eventually have several places where the public can enter and exit the water trail.
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No. Unfortunately, you'll need to plan your own shuttles. That means leaving a vehicle at the takeout near the Wildlife Viewing Area and Cherokee Lake so you can load your equipment up when finished with the float and make your way back to the start to reach your other vehicle. The Mossy Creek Loop trail intersects the water trail at the Wildlife Viewing Area and can be shuttled with a bicycle as another option.
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We are aiming for Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday May 24th, 2025 for a soft opening day. This means the public will have access to float!
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Boaters will experience several different biomes here in Jefferson City, TN. From the tall water grasses near the start of the float, through the fast moving water behind downtown, and the past the marsh lands as you enter the lake basin area, everyone is sure to have their favorite part. Wildlife is everywhere. Floaters will probably see several different fish, turtle, frog, bird, and aquatic mammal specials on their trip. Beavers have created several homes along the creek that can be witnessed. Remember, look but don't touch!
Partners of the Mossy Creek Project
This project would not be possible without the dedication and support of our community partners, friends, and neighbors. Our partners’ involvement is the driving force behind every step of progress and lasting impact.
Become a Sponsor or Volunteer Today!
Supporting the Mossy Creek revitalization through volunteering, donating, or sponsoring is a powerful way to help preserve a treasured natural and historic resource while contributing to the growth of Jefferson City’s tourism and community life. By signing up today, you become part of a grassroots movement that’s transforming the creek into a vibrant destination for generations to come. Your involvement truly makes a lasting difference.