Cherohala Skyway Backcountry Circuit
High country solitude off the beaten skyway
The Cherohala Skyway isn’t just about the pavement — it’s the gateway to a network of forgotten forest service roads that snake through Cherokee National Forest’s remote backcountry. Forest Road 217 branches north from the skyway near Beech Gap, climbing through old-growth hardwoods to reach abandoned fire towers and ridge-running trails that most tourists never see. The real prize is the technical descent into Coker Creek drainage, where rocky creek crossings and steep grades separate the serious from the sightseers.
This moderate circuit demands high-clearance 4WD and decent ground clearance for creek crossings and rocky sections. Spring brings muddy conditions and swollen creeks, while fall offers peak colors but crowded main roads. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the national forest, and Coker Creek offers reliable water sources. Best tackled in late summer when water levels drop and roads firm up. You’ll earn solitude and some of Tennessee’s finest mountain vistas without the Smoky Mountain crowds.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Tellico Plains, Tennessee |
| Land manager | Cherokee National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run this circuit, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD handles this fine under normal conditions. Lifted rigs have more margin on the rutted sections and water crossings, but a bone-stock Tacoma or 4Runner with decent all-terrain tires is the realistic minimum.
When does the circuit typically open and close for the season?
June through October is the sweet spot. Snow and ice hit these forest service roads above 4,000 feet as early as November, and spring mud can make them impassable into late May — Cherokee National Forest doesn't always gate them, so you can get yourself into a bad situation if you push the shoulder seasons.
Do I need a permit to run this circuit or camp out here?
No permit required for day use or dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest. Dispersed camping is free — just follow the 150-foot setback from water sources and roads, and pack out everything you pack in.
What's the hardest section of the circuit and what actually makes it difficult?
The backcountry spur roads dropping off the main ridgeline are where it gets real — expect off-camber shelf road with loose rock, embedded roots, and water bars that'll catch you off guard if you're moving too fast. The water crossings are generally mild but can rise fast after rain, so check conditions before committing to the lower elevation sections.
How far is the nearest gas, and is there reliable water on the trail?
Tellico Plains is your last fuel stop — fill up there, because you're looking at 28 miles of backcountry with no services. There are streams along the route for water but bring a filter; don't count on finding a campsite near water without scouting it first.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
Log in to contribute a GPX track.