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The Unicoi Turnpike
The Unicoi Turnpike was a major road used by the Cherokee and connected their capital Chota (near what is now Vonore) to Tellico (which was a major Cherokee town). The path extended for 150 miles through what are now North Carolina and Georgia. Once in Toccoa, travelers could sail down the Savannah River to the port cities of Savannah and Charleston. To learn more about the history, visit Tennessee Overhill.
(Map by Harrison Keely)
Highway 360 follows the original path between Vonore and Tellico Plains. It is 20 miles long and should take about 30 minutes to drive. This is a narrow, curvy backroad which takes you through the rural countryside. The only gas stations or public restrooms are at the beginning and end in Tellico and Vonore.
The path in Vonore will take you by Fort Loudoun State Historic Park and Sequoyah Birthplace Museum which are both must-visits. When you arrive in Tellico, you can visit the Charles Hall Museum, Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center, and the historic downtown.
To get a closer look at the historical path, check out the Unicoi Turnpike trail in Coker Creek which preserves the original version of the path. This trail begins with a gravel road perfect for Jeeps. If you want to explore on foot, hike the 3.4 mile trail close to the border with North Carolina.
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