The Cherohala Skyway is a
beautiful skyline drive through the Cherokee National Forest on the
TN/NC border. SMAS presently frequents two overlooks for star parties:
Unicoi Crest and an anonymous overlook we term "South View"
(because it faces toward the south). Click
here to check our latest star party schedule. Maps and directions
are included below. Some first-time visitors have tried to use GPS systems
for a "shorter" route. Please be assured that SMAS members have tested all
routes and the directions we provide below are the quickest (if
not the shortest) routes available. 
Directions from Maryville:
Take 411S to Madisonville. Turn left on Hwy 68S (Cherohala Skyway sign
clearly indicates the exit and turn in Madisonville). Proceed to Tellico
Plains and turn left on Hwy 165 (Cherohala Skyway turn again clearly
marked). Follow Hwy 165 to the NC border. Unicoi Crest is the first
overlook after you cross the NC border. Unicoi Crest is approximately 24 miles from
the Hwy 165 turn off Hwy 68 in Tellico.
Directions from Knoxville:
Take I-75S to Exit 60 for Sweetwater and turn left on Hwy 68S (signs
clearly indicate the Cherohala Skyway turn). Proceed on Hwy 68S through
Madisonville to Tellico Plains. Turn left on Hwy 165 in Tellico (Cherohala
Skyway turn again clearly marked). Follow Hwy 165 to the NC border.
Unicoi Crest is the first overlook after you cross the NC border. Unicoi Crest is
approximately 24 miles from the Hwy 165 turn off Hwy 68 in Tellico.
All:
Use the detail map below of the Cherohala Skyway once you pass the
Indian Boundary intersection that is approximately 14 miles from
Tellico. South View is the overlook just before the large Charles Hall
concrete bridge. Zero your trip odometer at the Indian Boundary
intersection and use the distances indicated.
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