For the ultimate experience, head south on the Dragon and, once in North Carolina, make your way towards Robbinsville where you can then enter the Cherohala Skyway (maps and directions will be provided). The 36+ mile long Skyway offers breathtaking vistas as it runs across the mountains from N. Carolina into Tennessee, ending at Tellico Plains.
Beginning at Santeetlah Gap on the North Carolina side (at elevation 2660 feet), the road quickly twists and ascends to Santeetlah, an overlook at the highest elevation of 5390 feet. Along this section you will drive the mountain top for another seven miles to the Tennessee state line. At the state line the descent starts into the Tellico River basin. There are more spectacular scenic vistas on the Tennessee side.
Once you reach Tellico Plains, you can turn around and head back or head north towards Vonore and then east/south to Maryville and Townsend. This is a l-o-n-g drive from Townsend so plan accordingly if you decide to drive this during the Saturday afternoon “free time”.
Cherohala Skyway