This particular road travels through several counties in these Smoky Mountains, but like many of our recommended scenic drives, you may want to make Franklin your home base so you can hit all the drives from a central location.
The Nantahala Gorge Scenic byway is a perfect example. You essentially run through breathtaking views and adventure on the 41-mile Nantahala Byway that runs along US 74 between Bryson City and Marble, NC. The Nanthala Gorge is a “yawning canyon” that will ultimately lead you to the home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. All around are beauty and cultural history. Ultimately, you could loop back from Bryson City to Franklin along the Cherokee Cultural Corridor which leads right back into town.
