14. Cherohala Skyway Loop

The Cherohala Skyway Loop: A Motorcyclist’s Smoky Mountain Adventure

The Cherohala Skyway Loop is a 138-mile motorcycling masterpiece. Combining the scenic Cherohala Skyway, the Tail of the Dragon, and the vibrant Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, this route is perfect for riders visiting the Smokies. With sweeping curves, stunning vistas, and mountain-town charm, it’s a bucket-list ride that blends adrenaline and serenity.

Start in Tellico Plains, TN

Your journey begins and ends in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, 25 miles south of I-75 between Knoxville and Chattanooga. The Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center (225 Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains, TN 37385), is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They offer free maps, road updates, and souvenirs like T-shirts. The very friendly staff shares local tips, and clean restrooms and picnic tables let you prep.

Next door, the Charles Hall Museum displays firearms and Native American artifacts for a quick history stop. Don’t underestimate the Charles Hall Museum. It is awesome! We stopped by on our drive and were amazed at all the historical pieces this gentleman collected over the years.

Fueling Up & Driving Times

Before riding, fuel up in Tellico Plains, as the Skyway lacks gas or food stops. Tellico Grains Bakery serves wood-fired pizzas and pastries ($9 to $12), while Tellico Beach Drive-In offers cash-only burgers and milkshakes. Pop’s Percolator Coffeehouse provides locally roasted coffee. Gas up at the Shell station on Cherohala Skyway Avenue, check your tires, and you’re ready to roll.

• Cherohala Skyway (43 miles): This segment, from Tellico Plains to Robbinsville, takes about 1.5 hours to ride at a steady pace, assuming minimal stops. The sweeping curves and 15 scenic overlooks (like Santeetlah Overlook) often tempt riders to pause for photos or short hikes, which could add 30–60 minutes.
• Robbinsville to Deals Gap (14 miles): This stretch on NC-143 to US-129 takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s a straightforward ride to the Tail of the Dragon.

• Tail of the Dragon (11 miles): The 318 curves demand focus and a slower pace, typically taking 20 to 30 minutes. Cautious riders or those navigating weekend crowds (200 to 300 bikes daily) may take longer.

• Return to Tellico Plains (70 miles): The return via TN-72, US-411, and TN-360, with gentler curves and rural scenery, takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. A stop at Indian Boundary Recreation Area could add 15 to 30 minutes.

Riding non-stop at moderate speeds (averaging 35–45 mph), the loop takes around 3.5 hours. With brief stops at key spots like Bald River Falls, Deals Gap, and an overlook or two, expect 4 to 4.5 hours. Add more time for meals, longer hikes, or heavy traffic during peak seasons (spring/fall weekends). Always check weather, as summer storms or winter ice can affect timing.

The Cherohala Skyway

From the Visitor Center, TN-165 starts the 43-mile Cherohala Skyway through Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. Completed in 1996, this National Scenic Byway climbs from 900 to over 5,400 feet. With smooth pavement and light traffic, it’s a rider’s dream, free of commercial stops for pure wilderness immersion.

As beautiful as this ride is, it is hard to imagine the few number of vehicles you see on your ride (50 cars, 100 bikes daily). We drove for a long time and never saw another vehicle. It’s like the road is all yours. The Cherohala Skyway Loop really is a treasure that too few people enjoy.

The Skyway’s first miles follow the Tellico River’s rapids. At mile 6, detour onto Forest Service Road 210 to see Bald River Falls, a 90-foot cascade visible from the road. Bald River Falls is worth the drive if you have the time.

Back on TN-165, the climb into the Unicoi Mountains begins, with curves tightening. Respect 15 and 25 mph signs on sharp turns to stay safe.

Cherohala Skyway’s Stunning Overlooks

As you ascend, 15 overlooks reveal Appalachian splendor. Santeetlah Overlook (5,390 feet) offers ridge-line views, while Big Junction showcases Santeetlah Creek. Brushy Ridge and Turkey Creek are picnic spots. Near Haw Knob, the Cherohala Skyway’s highest point, 360-degree vistas make every mile unforgettable, especially in spring or fall.

You simply must stop at one or two of the overlooks on the Cherohala Skyway Loop. The views are magnificent, and in the fall, the colors will blow you away.

Trails and Seasonal Tips

For adventure, hike short trails to Huckleberry Knob (5,560 feet) or Hooper Bald (5,429 feet), where wildflowers bloom in spring and foliage blazes in fall. Summer brings cool breezes but a 60% chance of thunderstorms. Winter is icy, so spring or fall is ideal. Expect 1.5 hours to ride the Skyway.

Descending to Robbinsville

As you approach Robbinsville you are near the end of the Cherohala Skyway portion of the route. Crossing into North Carolina (TN-165 becomes NC-143), the Skyway descends toward Robbinsville with flowing curves. No cell service and only two restrooms enhance the escape. Spring’s azaleas and fall’s colors shine, but pack rain gear for summer storms. Robbinsville marks the Skyway’s end, setting the stage for the next thrill.

Cherohala Skyway Loop to Deals Gap

From Robbinsville, take NC-143 to US-129 north to Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, the gateway to the Tail of the Dragon. Open March 15 to November 15 (8:00 AM to 8:00 PM), this rider hub buzzes with energy, serving as a cultural and practical stop before tackling the Dragon’s 318 curves.

Deals Gap draws thousands annually, especially during the spring Motorcycle Rally. The “Tree of Shame,” draped with crash debris, warns riders to stay sharp. Chat with fellow bikers on the porch, pose by the Dragon sign, or check the live webcam for crowd updates. Staff, often riders, share route tips.

Food and Gear at Deals Gap

By the time you get to Deals Gap you are probably going to want to grab something to eat. The resort’s grill offers “Dragon Burgers” ($8 to $10), pulled pork, and drinks. The gift shop stocks T-shirts, patches, and “I Survived” decals ($3–$5). Photographers like Killboy capture action shots for purchase. With 200 to 300 bikes on weekends, Deals Gap is a vibrant pit stop for refueling and connecting.

Stay overnight in motel rooms, cabins, or the campground. Rustic vibes keep you close to the action. Deals Gap’s history as a biking hub since the 1980s adds lore, making it a place to soak in motorcycling culture before the Dragon.

The Tail of the Dragon

From Deals Gap, the 11-mile Tail of the Dragon on US-129 throws 318 curves, hairpins, and blind corners. Free of intersections, it’s a technical test. The Cheoah Dam, from The Fugitive, adds cinematic flair. Respect the 30 mph limit, patrols are frequent, and crashes, though rare, are serious.

The Dragon ends at Tabcat Creek, where US-129 meets TN-72, leaving you exhilarated. With 200 to 300 bikes daily in peak season, it’s a global draw. Ride smart to join the ranks of those who’ve conquered this bucket-list stretch, then ease into the Cherohala Skyway Loop’s final leg.

Cherohala Skyway Loop Returns to Tellico Plains

The 84-mile return takes TN-72 east to US-411 west, then TN-360 south to Tellico Plains. Gentle curves wind through farmland and hills, with Tellico Lake views. Stop at Indian Boundary Recreation Area for a lakeside break. This serene stretch contrasts the Skyway and Dragon’s intensity.

Unwinding in Tellico Plains

Back in Tellico Plains, dine at Tellicafé for fried chicken or meatloaf ($10 to $15) or grab a pastry at Tellico Grains. Stay at Cherohala Mountain Trails Campground, with tent sites ($20 to $30), RV hookups ($40 to $50), or cabins ($80 to $120). Hosts Kellie and Wayne offer campfire vibes and free firewood.

Why Ride The Cherohala Skyway Loop?

The Cherohala Skyway Loop blends the Skyway’s vistas, the Dragon’s thrills, and Deals Gap’s community. With light traffic, stops like Bald River Falls, and Tellico Plains’ charm, it’s a 138-mile Smokies adventure. Start at the Visitor Center, conquer the Dragon, and let the mountains call you back.