Off the Road Again: America's Top 4x4 Destinations

Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains

By Paul McMenamin

(PhotoDisc)

Great Smoky Mountain National Park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The park itself is closed to most off-road travel, it is bordered by National Forest lands with numerous good 4WD routes. Some of the most popular trails are found in Tennessee's Cherokee National Forest (Cleveland, TN. 423.476.9700), which attracts 4WD fans from around the country. In the Nolichucky District, take the Horse Creek ORV Road to Cold Spring Mountain. At the summit you'll enjoy great views and access to the Appalachian Trail (foot traffic only).

In North Carolina, routes along the headwaters of Tellico River are very popular, with good trout streams nearby. The Great Smoky Mountains are still relatively unspoiled, but you're never too far from civilization, making it easy to locate a good campground or country inn. Contact the Tusquitee Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest (Murphy, NC 828.837.5152).

Paul McMenamin is the author, editor, and photo director of the original Ultimate Adventure Sourcebook.

< Previous

Next >

Last Updated: 14 Sep 2010
Published: 27 Aug 2001
The details, dates, and prices mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of publication.