If you are an experienced ATV rider looking for some really rough and rugged terrain, then the ATV trails at Upper Tellico are for you. The majority of the ATV trails found in the area are very rocky with lots of obstacles to overcome such as huge tree roots, large mud puddles and steep slippery areas. Though there are some trails in the Upper Tellico area that aren't quite as tough, for the most part this terrain is for seasoned ATV enthusiasts looking for a real challenge, not for younger or less experienced riders. These are definitely not trails suitable for beginners. In fact, these trails are considered by many to be some of the harshest ATV trails in America.
The Upper Tellico ATV/ OHV area can be found inside the Nantahala National Forest, which is a brief drive from Murphy, North Carolina in the southwestern part of the state, where it joins with Georgia and Tennessee. The name of the area is said to be an indian word that means "land of the midday sun".
Over 40 miles are contained within the trails at Upper Tellico, which are split into 12 numbered trails, ranging in levels of difficulty. Some of the harshest trails in the system are trails number 11 and 2, which require you to ride your ATV at an extremely low levels in order to overcome the extremely hard to overcome rocks and nasty drop offs. These are very dangerous trails and should be used only by people with an extensive amount of experience, because fatal accidents are very possible.
For those looking for a challenge that is safer, try trails number 8, 10, 3, and 4. These are very tough trails, but the chance of death is much lower than the previously mentioned riskier trails. The only trail here that is remotely appropriate for beginning ATV riders is trail number 1, but though it is a dirt road, it's steep cliffs still take it out of the range of most beginners. Have fun riding your ATV at Upper Tellico, and be sure to be safe.
