# Cherokee National Forest

**Location:** Tellico Plains, TN | **Difficulty:** Moderate | **Length:** 100+ miles

**GPS:** 35.3512, -84.2876

**Vehicle requirements:** 4WD with low range, all-terrain or mild mud-terrain tires (31–33"), skid plates recommended. Stock-to-2" lift handles most obstacles.

**Best season:** April - November

The Cherohala Skyway gets all the press, but the forest roads flanking it are the real prize. Water crossings, mountain gaps, and Appalachian charm without the crowds.

**Region:** Southeast • **Trail type:** Trail • **Rating:** 4.5/5

**Highlights:** Cherohala area, Water crossings, Mountain gaps, Fall colors, Less crowded

**Nearby campgrounds:**
- [Copper Basin Campground (Ducktown, Tennessee)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/tennessee/copper-basin-campground)
- [Abrams Creek Campground (Tallassee, Tennessee)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/tennessee/abrams-creek-campground)
- [Look Rock Campground (Walland, Tennessee)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/tennessee/look-rock-campground)
- [Cades Cove Campground (Townsend, Tennessee)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/tennessee/cades-cove-campground)
- [Cades Cove Group Campground (Townsend, Tennessee)](https://4x4playground.com/camping/tennessee/cades-cove-group-campground)

Canonical page: https://4x4playground.com/overlanding/trails/cherokee-forest