Unicoi Turnpike Trail

Exploring the Ancient Path

Learn more about the history of the Overhill region and explore a former war path.

More Information

Hwy 360 from Vonore to Tellico Plains and Coker Creek follows the route of the Historic Unicoi Path. Predating written history, the path was used for trade and warfare for hundreds of years. The road once linked the Cherokee capital of Chota to the coastal ports at Charleston and Savannah. This road allows you to explore the old Cherokee lands. From Tellico Plains, the road climbs to the high mountain community of Coker Creek, home to one of the nation’s first gold strikes.

Historical Background

The Cherokee once commanded much of the southern Appalachians. Archaeological evidence, early written accounts, and the oral history of the Cherokee themselves demonstrate that Cherokees controlled more than 130,000 square miles. The original Cherokee homeland has been altered over the past 200 years, with new roads and towns, and vanishing chestnuts and buffalo, but the shape of the hills and valleys remain much the same as Cherokees experienced them for thousands of years. And Cherokee people are still here. They live in the modern world but many still sing the old songs and practice the old ways. We invite you to explore part of the Cherokee homeland in Tennessee and North Carolina. Museums and historic sites will reveal the long and compelling Cherokee history, while festivals and events make it possible for you encounter Cherokee people and traditions.

Trail Stops

Options – There are several options at Coker Creek to double back to Tellico Plains or extend your ride in another direction. If you choose to double back to Tellico Plains, you can either pick up Hwy 68 North to Madisonville, or take Hwy 39/310 to Etowah. For a longer ride through the high country continue on Hwy 68 South to Ducktown and Copperhill to link up with Hwy 64.

Directions – At Vonore, turn onto Hwy 360. Follow 360 to Tellico Plains. At Tellico Plains, turn right onto Hwy 165, continue through the downtown, then turn left onto Hwy 68 South to Coker Creek, TN.  Get Directions

Funding Partners

Humanities Tennessee

East Tennessee Foundation

Places to stay near here

FIND COMFORT NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE

The Tennessee Overhill region covers several areas that are full of wonderful places to stay. No matter where you end up, you can rest easy knowing days full of fun and adventure await!

The Lodge at Tellico

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Gee Creek State Park Campground

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Mountain Stream Cabins

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Ocoee Retreat Center

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Telliquah Falls Log Cabins

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Hunt’s Lodge Campground

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

2 Rivers Campground

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Lake Ocoee Inn & Marina

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.

Quality Inn West

If you’d like to book a room or find out more information, please click here.