A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
What if we told you there was a scenic byway that not only takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Tennessee but North Carolina, too? Sounds pretty dreamy, right? The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile route designated both as a National Scenic Byway and National Forest Byway that takes about two to three hours to trek. But with so much natural beauty offered along the way, you might want to stretch the journey out a bit longer. Connecting Tellico Plains, Tennessee to Robbinsville, North Carolina, there are two national forests that this road will take you through, with towering trees and sunlight filtering through the leaves. All that’s left is to hop into your car (hopefully with some off-roading capabilities), roll the windows down, blast your favorite tunes, and head out on the open road.
Clocking in at 43 miles in length, the Cherohala Skyway is something to marvel at. It’s not just the beauty of the drive that will take your breath away, but also the stops along the way. Picture sweeping views of forested mountainside and scenic overlooks to stop and take it all in. Plus, there are hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and so much more!
With plenty of twists and turns, the byway winds up and more than 5,400 feet of mountains in North Carolina before descending into the vibrant forested backcountry of Tennessee. If you’re wondering where the road got its name, it crosses two National Forests - Cherokee and Nantahala.
We’re going to hit the ground running on this road trip with some off-road fun right out of the gate. Along Cherohala Skyway there are tons of detours that offer gravel roads for some off-roading action in -- in a 4x4 vehicle like the Nissan Frontier pictured below. In fact, this is part of the reason the Cherohala Skyway is nicknamed the “road enthusiast’s dream.” Try your hand at detouring along the 30-mile gravel River Road, or for real adventurers, the Indian Boundary Waters turn-off, which offers epic dual-sport exploration, plus tons of camping options.
Or for anyone who really wants to test their suspension and their wit, check out Heinous Loop in Blount County, Tennessee. This combination of road and mountain bike ride runs through some of the most magical spots tucked away in the Great Smoky National Park. Just know before you go, this route is a 50/50 mix of gravel and pavement, so you might want to pop it into 4WD here.
Another great stop along the byway is the Tellico River in Tennessee, which offers unique opportunities for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Running in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors love to cast a line for premier trout, paddle their kayaks along the rapids, or even just hike along the shoreline.
One of the most awe-inspiring stops on this road trip is the marvel that is Bald River Falls. This scenic waterfall has zero hiking required, with a parking lot nearby for easy access. The water cascades down the often moss-covered rock outcroppings over 100-feet, before pooling below. Each season viewing these falls offers something a bit different, which makes it all the more magical.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a road trip without hopping out of the car for some scenic overlooks, right? Along Cherohala Skyway, there are so many enchanting places to look out over the wide expanse of nature, each different from the last. Pack a picnic and stop at Brushy Ridge Overlook, which is small but mighty, near Tennessee mile marker 21.2.
Another great overlook to enjoy is Turkey Creek Overlook. At 2,630 feet in elevation, you can see for miles, with some of the most mesmerizing views on this trek. There are picnic tables scattered throughout this overlook, so make sure to pack a lunch and feast as you drink in all of the natural beauty.
Whether you’re a Tennessee resident or you are from across the way in North Carolina, this scenic off-the-paved-path byway is intended to be shared by all. Start planning a journey along Cherohala Skyway, and fuel your wanderlust with all of the incredible hidden gem stops along the way.
So, what are you waiting for? If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, start planning your stops along the Cherohala Scenic Skyway. This is one of those off-the-paved-path experiences that truly make both Tennessee and North Carolina shine.
