About Stratton Ridge Overlook
Stratton Ridge is a high point on the Cherohala Skyway close to the state line, and the pull-off there is one of the quieter stops on the road. It is on the North Carolina side of the Unicoi crest, in the Nantahala National Forest.
The view
The overlook looks out over a spread of forested ridges that run in long folds toward the Tennessee border and beyond. There is no single landmark, which is the point of the stop: it is a wide, unhurried view of Southern Appalachian forest with little sign of development. At this elevation the air is cooler than Robbinsville, and the late-October ridges show bare gray hardwoods and dark patches of hemlock and pine.
What to expect
- Crowds: light even on weekends. This is a stop where you can stand at the railing without a bus emptying behind you.
- Size: a small paved pull-off that holds several cars.
- Facilities: none.
- Time to allow: 10 minutes.
About the road
The Cherohala Skyway runs 43 miles between Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and Robbinsville, North Carolina, through the Cherokee and Nantahala national forests. It was finished in 1996 and reaches over 5,000 feet. It is open year-round, weather permitting, but ice, fog and snow can close sections. Check the Nantahala National Forest page before you drive in winter. There is no fuel or food on the road, and cell signal is limited.
Nearby stops
Unicoi Crest Overlook, at the state line, and Santeetlah and Hooper Bald overlooks are close by. The Skyway is national forest, so the Smokies parking tag does not apply. Allow about 90 minutes between Tellico Plains and this stop and plan the drive as a half day.