Road-A Challenge

World War I, demand for aluminum soared, and dams built by ALCOA generated hydroelectric power.

Tapoco Lodge was completed in 1930. In 1934, US Highway 129 was constructed and became the famous 11-mile Tail of the Dragon road with 318 curves. In 1935, Tapoco Lodge became a resort where ALCOA executives could relax and enjoy extended time.

During World War II, Tapoco Lodge was reportedly in the top five German targets list because of its aluminum production for American aircraft. The bomb shelter onsite now protects the adult beverages, and the siren is still operational.

Historic Tapoco Lodge hosted me, but all opinions are my own. My host provided historical facts.

Many notable people hail from Robbinsville, and well-known movies were filmed there.

Chief Junaluska, leader of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, considered an unsung hero during the most significant Indian battle in history, is memorialized at his gravesite and trail. He fought alongside Andrew Jackson and was credited for saving Jackson’s life at Horseshoe Bend, Alabama, in 1813.

Ronnie Milsap Highway, which runs in front of the Historic Tapoco Lodge and the Cheoah River,

Julie Diebolt Price Photographer & Travel Writer www.PhotoTravelWrite.com

is named after the country music singer and pianist. Milsap grew up in the neighborhood.

These movies were filmed in the Robbinsville area:

• In 1993, The Fugitive, starring Harrison Ford. In one scene, Ford jumps from the Cheoah dam.

• Portions of the movie Nell (1994), starring Jodie Foster and Liam Neeson, featured the courthouse and downtown.

• Recent productions of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners TV series.

Cherohala Skyway is a popular tourist attraction near Robbinsville. Known for spectacular scenic overlooks, pristine waterfalls, and world-class hiking trails, this 43-mile National Scenic Byway and National Forest Scenic Byway connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina.

If you’re into chasing waterfalls, detour to Bald River Falls, where you’ll see the 100-foot waterfall from your vehicle or standing on the bridge. The paved Forest Service Road 210 is well-marked. The forest road turns into a gravel road past the bridge. I returned the way I came in, backtracking about six miles rather than driving solo on an unimproved, little-traveled road. Please turn to next

Follow these driving tips to experience the Cherohala Skyway:

• Do not stop in the roadway

• Watch for people and wildlife crossing

• Check your brakes, use a low gear, and keep your speed low

• Dispose of all trash properly

• Expect motorcycles and be alert for bicycles

• In winter, watch for ice

• Take your time and enjoy the views

No gas, food, phone, or lodging along the Cherohala Skyway exists. Picnic sites and restrooms are available. Get supplies at either end of the drive.

Unfortunately, low-lying clouds prevented me from seeing more than a few feet in front of my vehicle. Be aware that the drive can be challenging in good weather and bad.

On my road trip, I circled from Historic Tapoco Lodge over the Tail of the Dragon, joined the Cherohala Skyway at Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and exited at Cheoah Ranger District in North Carolina, near the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.

When you exit at the Cheoah Ranger District, visiting the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is an easy stop. Alfred Joyce Kilmer, an American soldier killed during World War I, was a famous poet who wrote the poem “Trees.” The U.S.

Forest Service purchased 13,500 uncut acres of old-growth forest along the Little Santeetlah Creek basin and opened the memorial to the public in 1936. Walk among the giant poplar trees that are more than 400 years old.

I not only slayed the Dragon, but I also conquered Cherohala Skyway in one day. I celebrated with the Dragon Slayer Bloody Mary at Tapoco Tavern…a suitable reward. For more