Stretching 43 miles between Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and Robbinsville, North Carolina, this National Scenic Byway climbs from lush river valleys to windswept ridges exceeding 5,400 feet in elevation. The high-altitude passage through the Unicoi Mountains crosses Cherokee National Forest (Tennessee) and the Nantahala National Forest (North Carolina). Cherohala Skyway takes its name from these two forests “Chero” for Cherokee and “hala” for Nantahala.
It is incredibly similar to Talimena National Scenic Byway between Oklahoma and Arkansas.
The western portion of the Skyway follows TN-165 and transitions to NC-143 at the state line. There are over 20 scenic overlooks and trailheads. Below are my favorite vistas along the way.
Bald River
Shortly after the start in Tellico Plains, 90-foot Bald River Falls is well worth the 6-mile detour on paved Forest Service Road 210. The narrow road skirts along the edge of the upper Tellico River through the gorge.
You can view this waterfall from the bridge or take a short, but steep, trail to the base. Just beyond the bridge is a small parking area.
During our September visit, as Bald River poured over the rocks, a dancing mist formed.
Brushy Ridge
Elevation 3,750 feet
Brushy Ridge looks out on Sassafras Ridge and other major ridges running south down to the Tellico River.
It was the first overlook on the Skyway with views I found interesting. The ridges and plant life varied enough that we had several photo options within a couple of feet.
East Rattlesnake Rock
Elevation 4,110 feet
East Rattlesnake Rock and West Rattlesnake Rock are a pair of overlooks. East Rattlesnake overlooks rugged views of the Unicoi Mountains and Nantahala National Forest.
Big Junction
Elevation 5,240 feet
Big Junction overlook offers a sweeping southward view from the gap between Haw Knob and Big Junction.
Santeetlah
Elevation 5,390 feet
Santeetlah is the highest point on the Skyway with a “mile-high” panoramic view of the Santeetlah Creek watershed. We found blooming wildflowers and buzzing hummingbirds.
Obadiah
Elevation 3,740 feet
From Obadiah there are expansive views of the Great Smokies, Snowbird Mountains, and Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. I loved a ridgeline framed by two tall trees.
Shute Cove
Elevation 3,550 feet
Shute Cove has stunning views of the Nantahala National Forest. In addition to a picnic area, this overlook also has a wooden staircase to an elevated platform.
Hooper Cove
Elevation 3,100 feet
Hooper Cove is a lower-elevation picnic area nestled in a lush cove. It is one of the last overlooks on the byway.
Know Before You Go
Cherohala Skyway is a favorite for motorcycles and sports cars due to the twists and turns. During our visit, they raced by even on the curves. Be cautious as you enjoy the drive – we saw an accident at an overlook with two totaled cars.
If you are a driving enthusiast, the North Carolina end of the Skyway is only about 15 miles from the famous Tail of the Dragon (US-129).
Other nearby attractions include Citico Creek Wilderness, Bald River Gorge Wilderness, Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Fall Branch Falls, Lake Santeetlah, and Fontana Lake.
Absolutely gorgeous! A must see but I may check out when the motorcycles and those who want to race around curves are possibly less. Thank you for the heads up. The views are worth the travel.