The Upper Tellico OHV Area is famous for some of the best 4x4 trail riding in all of America. It has something to challenge off-roaders of all experience levels. Trail names like Guardrail, Helicopter Pad, Slick Rock and School Bus all conjure up visions of adventurous steep hills and adrenaline pumping fun. The Upper Tellico Off-Road Vehicle Area is near the western end of North Carolina at Allan Gap (2850 feet elevation) just south of the Tennessee border in the Natahala National Forest . The closest town south is Murphy, North Carolina in Cherokee County. On the northwest end of this area is Tellico Plains Tennessee.

This high-elevation basin is formed by the Unicoi Mountains. Amid the high oaks and 8000 acres of rugged, steep terrain. lies the source of the Tellico River and its numerous feeder streams. The ORV area's vary in elevation from 2,500 feet on the Tellico River at the North Carolina-Tennessee border to nearly 4979 feet on Grassy Top Mountain. Eleven 4WD trails ranging from EASIEST to MOST DIFFICULT are clearly marked. Near stock Jeeps, SUVs and all-terrain four wheelers can have a great time on the easy to moderate trails. The harder stuff is usually pretty tough and it's quite common to see huge tires, custom stretched frames and high horsepower vehicles on these trails.

Tellico may offer something for everyone but most of the Tellico trails are challenging. As stated before there are plenty of less threatening trails in Tellico - many suitable for stock . But because of the inherent difficulty of most of the trails, front and rear tow hooks are a necessity. The Pros recommend 33" mud tires (or larger), a suspension lift, a locker or two, a winch and tow straps for many of the trail rides. These items are required for the harder rides. Spare parts (tires, axles, drive shafts, U-joints, etc.) are recommended for the hardest trails.

Pack your lunch for a meal on the trail. Absolutely no alcohol allowed on the trails. Everyone must wear seat belts at all times. Most of all be safe, be smart and always watch out for the other guy.

Elevation Change:

(1) EASIEST to (10) MOST DIFFICULT Trail

Rain or snow can increase the ratings by two to three points.

1-3 : trails with obstacles that are easy to navigate. In good weather these trails may not require the continual use of four-wheel drive (4WD).

4-7 trails that are more demanding and require 4WD. A wide variety of challenges, including stream crossings, mud holes, and boulders.

8-9 Trails with deep mud holes and laborious rock climbing . There is a chance for parts breakage and body damage on these trails.

10 Trail with the most difficult obstacles. Rollovers, breakage and body damage is to be expected here.

The Tellico OHV Area is a fee access area. The cost is $10.00 per day/vehicle (as 0f 1-1-05) payable at the Forest Service entrance station. The station is operated on the honor system, so you will need to have correct change (they do accept checks). The money collected here is used to keep the trails open for all of us. Southern Four Wheel Drive Association (SFWDA) maintains the Tellico ORV trail system and contributes thousands of dollars and man-hours to this endeavor each year. If it weren't for their efforts in conjunction with the Forest Service, we wouldn't have this area to enjoy with our friends and families. Please do not litter or drive off the established trails. This is a dry county and it is against the law to have alcoholic beverages in your vehicle within the ORV area. If you get caught with it, you will be fined, you have been warned. Bathroom facilities are available at the parking area.

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Directions: From Murphy, North Carolina