Cherohala Skyway

The Cherohala Skyway stretches across the rugged terrain between eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, offering a spectacular 43-mile drive through the Appalachian Mountains. This breathtaking route threads through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, rising to elevations above 5,400 feet. Its unique geographic position allows visitors to experience diverse landscapes—from dense hardwood forests to wide mountain ridges—that change dramatically with the seasons. Particularly notable are the sweeping vistas that frame the surrounding peaks and valleys, making this drive one of the most impressive in the Southeast.

A key feature of the Cherohala Skyway is its accessibility to natural attractions including high-elevation balds and well-preserved old-growth forests. The road itself follows ridgelines that provide uninterrupted views, rare for this region’s typical dense forest cover. Drive any time between spring and fall, and you may witness vibrant wildflowers, colorful foliage, or vibrant wildlife like deer, hawks, and elusive black bears. Alongside natural beauty, the Skyway holds cultural significance, symbolizing a joint effort between Tennessee and North Carolina to create a route that respects the environment while welcoming visitors.

Built over several decades and completed in 1996, the Skyway has become a favored route for photographers, motorcyclists, and anyone seeking moments of quiet reflection amid nature’s grandeur. With several overlooks and trailheads easily accessible from the road, visitors often pause to hike short trails or simply soak in the panoramic views. Whether admiring wild rhododendron blooms or the expansive mountain horizons, the Cherohala Skyway offers a memorable journey through one of the Appalachians’ most scenic corridors.