Ellijay GA to Tellico Plains TN – 126 miles

Depart Ellijay with a full tank of gas as you reenter Chattahoochee National Forest and then Cohutta Wilderness. Note that portions of this and other sections are typically gated closed from January to mid-March. Scenic overlooks offer fantastic mountain views as riders climb above 3,000 feet approaching the Tennessee border in the forest. Tumbling Creek Road in Tennessee is rocky and steep, providing a moderate challenge as the track approaches the Ocoee River at TVA Powerhouse #3. Follow the contours of the raging Ocoee River along Hwy 64 before heading north on Oswald Road, featuring several spectacular overlooks. Webb Brothers store (typically closed from November through February) is a unique and historic stopover on a short detour with fuel and supplies. McFarland Road is a prime example of dense Tennessee forest riding and offers two interesting extension options: The historic small hydroelectric Apalachia Powerhouse and the ruins of an old cement plant constructed in the 1940s to help build the pipeline viaduct to the powerhouse.

At 2,348 feet, Buck Bald is an easy gravel ride and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains as you head north along the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Witt Road is an alternate harder option offering multiple river crossings, some of which can be quite challenging due to the depth of the water and tricky embedded rock features. If you get your feet wet on Witt Road, the section ends shortly thereafter in the small, outdoor-oriented community of Tellico Plains, TN.