Scenic driving is a popular activity on Cherokee National Forest. Spectacular stands of tall timbers, cascades of spring wildflowers and rhododendron, heritage resources from the region's diverse past, wildlife viewing areas, swiftly moving rivers and calm lakes await the visitor along miles of state, county and Forest Service roads. Overlook pulloffs provide opportunities for viewing and photographing the surrounding countryside.

The most popular scenic routes in the northern districts inlclude the Flatwoods Road near South Holston Lake, the Unaka Mountain Auto Tour near Erwin, the Roan Mountain area, and scenic recreation corridors along Watauga Lake and State Highway 107 in Greene and Cocke Counties. Other popular routes are Big Cliffy Road (FDR #404), Brush Creek Road (FDR. #209), Hall Top Road, (FDR #207), Paint Creek Road (FDR #41), and Hurricane Gap Road, (FDR #32.) All these are gravel, low-speed roads.

Cherohala Skyway: The Skyway crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests along a former Cherokee Indian trade route. This 40-plus mile, two-lane road connects Tellico Plains in southeast Tennessee to Robbinsville, N.C.

The Skyway parallels the Tellico River in Tennessee, offering canoeing and fishing opportunities between mile post 2 and 4. As you pass mile post 14 you will see spectacular views of mountain tops and deep valleys. Stop at Turkey Creek Overlook, between mile post 15 and 16, which offers picnic tables. You'll pass overlooks, trailheads and more picnic areas before reaching the end of the Skyway. Trailheads include Eagle Gap, Grassy Gap, West Rattlesnake Rock, Mud Gap and Hooper Bald trailheads.

Allowing for stops, it takes about 1.5 to two hours to travel the length of the Skyway.

Ocoee Scenic By-way: This route, U.S. Highway 64/FS 77, is the first National Forest scenic by-way in the United States. Its 26 miles follow the Ocoee River in Polk County, passing through scenic areas with rock bluffs, mountain peaks and historic sites such as the Ocoee Flume Line and Powerhouses. The Chilhowee Overlooks and Boyd Gap offer unparalleled photo opportunities.

Other beautifuls drives are the Tellico River Road, the Tellico-Robbinsville Road and the Hiwassee River Road.

Some Forest Service roads are closed seasonally or permanently, while others are open year-round to motor vehicles. Closed roads remain available for foot travel and may be open for horses and bicycles as well. For more information on specific road closures, scenic routes, or recreational activities along forest roads, contact the nearest district ranger's office.

Special thanks to the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association for some of the above information.

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