CherohalaSkyway.
Distance
68 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
1,100 m
Rating
4.8 / 5
634 reviews
Cherohala Skyway.
TN-165/NC-143 rides a continuous ridge crest at 1,000–1,600 m for 68 km through the Unicoi Mountains. Zero commercial traffic — pure sweepers and long Appalachian views. The quieter, more scenic neighbour to the Tail of the Dragon.
Quick facts
SurfacePaved
Distance68 km
Days1
Total climb1,100 m
DifficultyModerate
Clones1
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The route.
Tellico Plains, TNStart · Last fuel and services before the ridge. The 68 km ride has zero commercial stops — fill up and carry water.
Bald River FallsScenic Point · A 98-foot waterfall via a short detour on TN-360 — worth five minutes before climbing to the ridge.
Unicoi Mountain CrestScenic Point · The road breaks above the treeline onto the open ridge — first broad views over the Tennessee Valley.
Haw Knob OverlookMountain Pass · Near the highest point on the Tennessee section at 1,532 m. Multiple ridge lines visible on clear days.
Bob Stratton BaldPhoto Spot · Highest open bald on the Skyway at ~1,600 m. A 360° panorama of the Unicoi Mountains with no treeline obstruction.
Tennessee–North Carolina State LineScenic Point · State line at full ridge elevation. A photo opportunity at the state line marker on the crest.
Santeetlah Lake OverlookScenic Point · After descending the NC side, sweeping views open over Santeetlah Lake and Graham County far below.
Robbinsville, NCEnd · End of the Skyway. The Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap is 32 km northeast — pair both roads for a full Appalachian day.
From riders.
634 verified rides logged on this route.
4.8/ 5
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
634 verified rides
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