08/20/2026
Alright Dragon slayers, as summer slips into autumn, it’s time to plan a ride on one of the best roads in the USA.
The Cherohala National Scenic Byway is a 43-mile connection between Tellico Plains, Tennessee and Robbinsville, North Carolina. After 34 years, the Cherohala Skyway was completed in the fall of 1996, becoming North Carolina’s most expensive highway costing $100,000,000. It winds up over 5,400 foot mountains for 18 miles in North Carolina and descends another 23 miles into the Tennessee back country. The road crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests thus the name “Chero…hala”. It’s well known in motorsport circles for its sweeping corners and scenic views, no surprise the Cherohala Skyway was featured as one of Discovery Channel’s Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in North America.
For more adventures, the Cherohala Skyway has exciting gravel and dirt roads. At the North Carolina/Tennessee State Line the old wagon train road (FS 81 in NC. River Road in TN) crosses the Cherohala. This 30 mile gravel Forest Service Road offers extensive backwoods settings and rustic camping spots. Another great option for adventure is Tatham Gap, filled with history, this 8.5 mile gravel road connects Robbinsville to Andrews.
The Tellico River, at the lower elevations on the Tennessee side, is famous for its trout fishing, and when the water is high it can be quite a challenge for canoers and kayakers. The Cherohala Skyway follows the river leading you to the sleepy town of Tellico Plains where you can fill your tank and feed your belly.
Learn more and grab your printable maps here:
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