Exploring an Ancient Path

We invite you to explore this ancient pathway. The Unicoi Turnpike Trail is designed so that you can trace the route in your automobile and hike on the original roadbed in the Cherokee National Forest. Historic sites and museums along the way will illustrate the role this important transportation artery played in our nation's history. Take note of the place names that speak of earlier times and of the people who once lived here. Pause in the small towns along the way where you will find places to eat, spend the night, and shop. Note: We suggest that you fuel your automobile before starting up the mountain toward Unicoi Gap. There are no cell phone signals for much of the way.

Auto Trail
The auto trail approximates the original route of the Unicoi Path. It follows paved highways for most of the way, but there is a section on Joe Brown Highway (approximately 10 miles) in North Carolina (Hwy 1326) that is a gravel road with sharp curves. While the gravel section is suitable for automobiles, it is not advisable for busses.

Hiking Trail
To gain a sense of what travel was like on the Unicoi Turnpike in previous centuries, hike on the restored section that runs through the Cherokee National Forest between Unicoi Gap and Doc Rogers Fields near Coker Creek, TN. The hiking trail, marked with a blue blaze, is 2½ miles long and is rated easy.