The Cherohala Skyway: A picturesque ride through the Appalachian Mountains

The Cherohala Skyway was completed and opened to the public in 1996. It’s known for its well-engineered design, featuring wide sweeping curves and gentle grades. The route begins in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and winds its way through the Unicoi Mountains, reaching an elevation of over 5,400 feet at the Santeetlah Overlook in North Carolina.

The highway is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the surrounding wilderness. You’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of lush forests, deep valleys, and distant mountain peaks.

There’s plenty to look forward to when riding throughout this region, and with a little planning, you can help set yourself—and your bike—up for a smooth, safe ride.

The Skyway provides access to various outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and camping areas. Review the journey in this interactive route map.

Be prepared for unpredictable and rapidly changing weather conditions. Due to its elevation, the Cherohala Skyway experiences cooler temperatures compared to the surrounding lowlands. The breeze is notoriously cool when riding the mountain ridges, so pack the correct cool weather motorcycle gear for this ride.

Make sure to check for road conditions and closures, especially during winter months when some sections may be closed due to snow and ice.

The following climate data for Tellico Plains, TN gives you a general idea of what you can expect.

Riding the Cherohala Skyway can be an exhilarating experience, but safeguarding your ride is paramount. Follow these motorcycle safety tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure:

• Make sure your motorcycle is in optimal condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.

• If you're not accustomed to high altitudes, be aware of potential symptoms, like dizziness or shortness of breath.

• Use caution in foggy, wet, or slippery conditions, and adjust your riding style accordingly.

• Tailor your speed to your skill level, particularly if you’re not accustomed to winding roads and mountainous terrain.

• Watch for wildlife, as the route passes through natural habitats.

• Take breaks to prevent fatigue. Find designated pull-offs to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Also, keep in mind the Skyway doesn't have gas stations, restaurants, or main restrooms along the way. Make sure you're well-prepared for a smooth ride.

Without stops, you can complete this route in under two hours. However, there are multiple must-see spots if you aren't in a hurry—all of which highlight the area's natural beauty.

At 5,400 feet, Santeelah Overlook is the highest point on the Cherohala Skyway. This stop allows riders to enjoy expansive views of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains, and surrounding forests—including Slickrock and Snowbird.

Santeelah is just one of 15 overlooks. Several trailheads are also located along this route. If you have the time, snacks and water, and some decent hiking shoes, be sure to explore.

For a more leisurely ride, take a slight detour to reach Indian Boundary Lake, located 13 miles from Tellico Plains. This 96-acre body of water has a swim beach and fishing pier if you're looking to catch bass or catfish. There’s also a great picnic area with grills. Plan to stop here if you want to enjoy a lakeside meal or book a campsite for the night.

Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is famous for its untouched natural beauty. This old-growth forest is home to 400-year-old trees—some of which are over 20 feet wide.

Many plan for a fall trip to enjoy the changing leaves. While fall is the busiest season, the Cherohala is still far less traveled than the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway—known as “America's Favorite Drive.”