Once upon a time there was a certain Indian
princess . . . No! Not this time. Many of us have heard the stories about Cherohala but
they just are pure fiction. Cherohala is a modern-day coined word: Cherokee plus
Nantahala. They needed a name (NC-143 isn't very romantic) for this very scenic
skyline drive which connects the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina with the
Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee.
From US-74 at Topton (see: Nantahala Gorge),
take US-129 to Robbinsville. At the intersection of NC-143 turn left and follow it around
the south end of Lake Santeetlah. (About a dozen miles from US-74 is a 'scenic overlook'
with a special kiosk. Here, too, you can take a detour into the Joyce Kilmer Memorial
Forest where you can view one of the finest stands in the country of virgin oaks, tulip
poplars (some 20 or so feet in circumference).
Continuing on NC-143, you'll soon cross
Santeetlah Creek. This is known as the Santeetlah Gap. From here you will climb Cedar Top
Mountain and then continue along the crests to Little Huckleberry Knob, Hoopers Bald (the
highest here at 5429 feet), Laurel Top (on the Tennessee line) and then, following the
Appalachian crest, on to John's Knob and Beech Gap where you can cross over into
Tennessee.
According to geologists, the Appalachian
Mountains are the oldest mountains in the world. Worn down by millions of years of
erosion, they allow very comfortable hiking trails. In fact, almost every parking area
along the Cherohala also serves as an access point for at least one such trail.
Though this route is only about 32 miles (to the
Tennessee State Line at Beech Gap) it will take well over two hours to make the round
trip. Please take advantage of the scenic overlooks - and, perhaps, follow a trail or two.
While you are driving, please remember that you will encounter many pedestrians and
cyclist along the road so please be careful.
Area accommodations are usually
'booked up' during our leaf season. If you haven't made your motel
reservations yet we have included an on-line reservation system for your
convenience.
