Tellico Plains is a region in southeastern Tennessee, situated at the edge of the vast Cherokee National Forest. This area is characterized by its diverse terrain, featuring winding mountain roads, scenic river valleys, and extensive forest lands. The landscape includes prominent natural features such as the Cherohala Skyway, the Tellico River Gorge, and Bald River Falls, providing a varied backdrop for outdoor activities. The region's geography makes it suitable for several sports like road cycling and gravel riding.
4
Routes
29
People visited

14
riders
93.3km
05:26
2,280m
2,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

7
riders
65.3km
02:58
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5
riders
61.7km
03:23
1,310m
1,310m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

3
riders
44.7km
02:30
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tellico Plains offers a variety of outdoor activities, primarily focusing on road cycling and gravel riding. The region provides access to the vast Cherokee National Forest, which features diverse terrain for exploration. There are 5 routes available on komoot for various sports, including road cycling, mountain biking, and touring.
The Cherohala Skyway is a prominent route for road cyclists, offering 43 miles (69 km) of winding roads and scenic overlooks. Another option is the "Tellico River Out-and-Back," a 34-mile (55 km) route that follows the Tellico River. For more details, consult the Road Cycling Routes around Tellico Plains guide.
Yes, Tellico Plains offers excellent opportunities for gravel cycling. The "Tellico Gorge/Bald River" route is a 41-mile (66 km) mixed-surface loop with approximately 18 miles (29 km) of gravel through federally protected forest. The "Tellico Highlands Loop" is another 43-mile (69 km) route that combines paved and gravel sections.
Key natural attractions include the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile (69 km) National Scenic Byway with mountain vistas. The Tellico River and its gorge offer scenic views, especially in the fall. Bald River Falls, a 90-foot (27-meter) waterfall, is another notable landmark in the area.
The "Tellico River Out-and-Back" route is adaptable for various skill levels. Cyclists can turn around at any point along its 34-mile (55 km) length, benefiting from a gravity-assisted return. This allows for a customized experience based on individual endurance.
The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile (69 km) National Scenic Byway that connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina. It features long, winding roads, scenic overlooks, and climbs to elevations above 5,000 feet (1,524 meters). It is a popular destination for cyclists seeking mountain views.
Tellico Plains has more than 20 visitors who have explored its routes on komoot. The region features 5 routes across various sports, including road cycling, mountain biking, and touring. While specific average ratings are not yet available, the area is recognized for its diverse outdoor offerings.
Tellico Plains serves as a gateway to the 640,000-acre (259,000-hectare) Cherokee National Forest. This vast forest provides numerous roads and trails for cycling, hiking, and other outdoor pursuits. Many cycling routes, including those along the Tellico River, traverse through the forest.
Komoot offers a dedicated guide for road cycling in the region. The Road Cycling Routes around Tellico Plains guide provides detailed information on various routes and their characteristics.
The official website for the City of Tellico Plains is tellicoplainstn.org. For direct inquiries, the main phone number for Tellico Plains City Hall is +1 (423) 253-3333.
Yes, the region offers challenging routes, particularly for gravel cycling. The "Tellico Gorge/Bald River" loop includes demanding climbs over Sugar Mountain and Waucheesi Mountain. The Cherohala Skyway also presents significant ascents with its long, winding roads.
Cyclists can expect a diverse range of terrain, from smooth paved roads along the Cherohala Skyway to mixed-surface and gravel roads within the Cherokee National Forest. Routes often feature winding mountain roads, scenic river valleys, and dense forest sections.

