Unicoi Gap

Then - In earlier times this mountain pass, known as the "Northwest Passage," linked eastern Tennessee to the outside world. The people who passed this way, and the events that took place here, were connected to the nation's history. During the American Revolution John Sevier's troops passed through this gap to invade Cherokee settlements in North Carolina. Sevier was expecting an easy fight, but after his army of 140 men burned three towns, they learned that a sizeable force of Chickamauga warriors was nearby. Sevier and his men quickly retreated back to Tennessee, narrowly escaping death. Historical records state that Sevier's men spent a sleepless night near Unicoi Gap while the Chickamauga warriors stood just outside the firelight and taunted them till daybreak. During the Civil War the Unicoi Gap was a convenient place for bushwhackers to ambush travelers.

Now - Located near the TN/NC state line, the Unicoi Gap is still an important landmark, acting as a modern passage for travelers on the Unicoi Turnpike Trail and a reminder of earlier travelers who passed this way for centuries. A trailhead and parking area for the hiking section of the Unicoi Turnpike Trail is located here, as well as easy access to the Benton-MacKaye Trail.