Finished in 1996, the Cherohala Skyway, a scenic drive leaving from Robbinsville, North Carolina over the mountains to Tellico Plains, Tennessee. This steep and often curvy road gets its name from the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests it cuts through during its 36 mile run.
The Cherohala Skyway is without question is one of the best roads in America to ride. Whether in a car or on a motorcycle this road is breathtaking in the joy of the drive and the incredible views. Climbing a dramatic 2630 feet in just 11 miles to the highest point 5390 feet and ending with dropping down through the Cherokee National Forest, following the Tellico River into Tennessee.
Once is not enough. Just go ahead and plan to ride it in both directions just for the ride. Then plan a couple of days to ride and stop and walk where hiking trails leading off from the skyway will take you to incredible waterfalls and lookout points. Layered clothing is a good idea as a pleasant 70 degrees can quickly drop to 30. Black bears, deer, mountain lions are abundant along with the largest oldest trees in the Eastern states.
One of the side trips is to Bald River Falls. A Forest Service road on your right will take you there. It’s about 5 miles to the falls, but well worth the trip. Bald River Falls are about 100 feet high and you can enjoy them from either a bridge next to the parking lot or walk down closer to the falls. Another is the lake at Indian Camp Boundary. If you need a place to cool off, this is a great stop.