Cherohala Skyway — Haw Knob Summit and Unicoi Crest Viewpoint

The Cherohala Skyway crests the Unicoi Mountains along the NC-TN state line at elevations pushing 5,400 feet. Haw Knob and the surrounding ridgeline pull the skyline wide open — layered blue ridges stack south into the Nantahala and north into Cherokee National Forest. This is the scenic spine of the Trans-America Trail’s western approach from Tellico Plains, and even though it’s paved, the exposure and elevation make it a genuine landmark. Early mornings bring fog filling the valleys below while the ridge stays clear — worth the alarm clock.

Access is straightforward from either the Tellico Plains, TN side or the Robbinsville, NC side on paved NC-143. Snow and ice close sections in winter — check NCDOT road conditions before running it in November through March. Any vehicle can reach the overlooks, but the dirt spur roads dropping off the Skyway require high clearance.

High ridge, big sky, two states at once.