Unaka Mountain Scenic Drive

Facility · Tennessee ·

Managed by the USDA Forest Service

Pisgah National Forest (NF) · Open Access

3,522 ft
Elevation

From Erwin, this drive makes a circle connecting TN 395, graveled Forest Road 230 and TN 107, a state scenic parkway, past Limestone Cove.

The route winds from the valley floor of Unicoi County to high-elevation spruce forests and balds atop Unaka Mountain. Rock Creek Recreation Area, with facilities for day and overnight use, and Limestone Cove Picnic Area are along the way. High-clearance 4WD vehicles are recommended on Forest Road 230, closed between mid-December to mid-March.

Getting there

36.11313, -82.35624 · 36°6'47.3"N 82°21'22.5"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 85°F in Jul, down to 47°F in Jan.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F475159687683858580705950
Low °F252733415058626155433328
Precip in3.53.33.84.04.85.15.54.83.32.52.83.6

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 4.4 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Member photos

Common questions about Unaka Mountain Scenic Drive

Can you reserve a site at Unaka Mountain Scenic Drive?
No. Unaka Mountain Scenic Drive is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Unaka Mountain Scenic Drive

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.