Two ways to reach paradise in the Tennessee mountains!
Mountain Retreat (5.0 stars, 3 reviews) sits at 12968 New Hwy 68 in Tellico Plains, Tennessee – a stunning mountain cabin with sunrise views, stargazing, and pure Appalachian peace. Created by owners Richard and Antonio, who turned a vacation dream into a forever home and thriving hospitality business, this destination offers more than just a place to stay.
Strategic Location – The Perfect Riding Hub: Mountain Retreat sits in the sweet spot between three major riding regions: the North Georgia Mountains, Western North Carolina, and East Tennessee. This makes it the ideal base camp for multi-day riding adventures – you can explore the Cherohala Skyway, the Georgia mountains around Blue Ridge and Blairsville, the Ocoee River area, and Western NC mountain roads all from one central location.
But how do you get there? We’re showing you BOTH approaches: the northern route from Tellico Plains (11.34 miles) and the southern route from Ducktown (21.51 miles). Your starting location determines your route – choose based on where you’re coming from, or ride both for a complete loop experience!
ROUTE 1: TELLICO PLAINS TO MOUNTAIN RETREAT
The Northern Approach – 11.34 Miles
Route Stats:
- Total Distance: 11.34 miles
- Max Elevation: 1,746 ft
- Min Elevation: 865 ft
- Total Climbing: 1,300 ft
- Total Descent: 617 ft
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes riding
Ratings:
- CowFactor: 🐄 (1 Cow – Minimal farm country, more wilderness)
- PeakFactor: 🏔️🏔️🏔️ (3 Peaks – Consistent mountain work with 1,300 ft climbing)
- CreekFactor: 💧 1
- Railroad Crossings: None
The Northern Journey: The Tellico Plains approach is the quick, direct route – just 11.34 miles and about 20 minutes of riding time. Don’t let the short distance fool you, though: with 1,300 feet of climbing, this route earns its PeakFactor 3 rating through concentrated elevation work. You’ll gain over 115 feet per mile on average, creating engaging, active riding that keeps you working through the gears.
With a CowFactor of just 1, this route prioritizes wilderness and forest over agricultural landscapes – you’re riding through pure Appalachian mountain character via the Cherokee National Forest.This is the route for riders approaching from points to the west in Tennessee and the Knoxville area. The Cherohala Skyway’s western terminus is at Tellico Plains, so riders exploring the full skyway will naturally approach Mountain Retreat from this direction. The quick 20-minute ride means you can spend maximum time on the skyway itself and still reach Mountain Retreat with plenty of daylight left for those stunning sunset views.
ROUTE 2: DUCKTOWN TO MOUNTAIN RETREAT
The Southern Approach – 21.51 Miles
Route Stats:
- Total Distance: 21.51 miles
- Max Elevation: 1,756 ft
- Min Elevation: 1,115 ft
- Total Climbing: 1,428 ft
- Total Descent: 1,638 ft
- Total Time: Approximately 33 minutes riding
Ratings:
- CowFactor: 🐄🐄🐄 (3 Cows – Legitimate farm country riding!)
- PeakFactor: 🏔️🏔️🏔️ (3 Peaks – Consistent mountain terrain with 1,428 ft climbing)
- Railroad Crossings: 🚂 YES – Active or historic rail crossings along route
The Southern Journey: The Ducktown route nearly doubles the distance of the Tellico Plains approach, giving you 21.51 miles and about 33 minutes of riding time. Your journey takes you through a series of authentic Tennessee mountain communities: Ducktown → Harbuck → Turtletown → Farner → Apalachia → Coker Creek area → Mountain Retreat.
With a CowFactor of 3, you’ll pass through authentic working farm country – pastures, livestock, and agricultural operations define significant portions of this ride. This is classic rural Tennessee mountain farming territory, where the land is still actively worked and the agricultural heritage remains alive. The 1,428 feet of climbing spread across 21.51 miles creates a PeakFactor 3 rhythm similar to the Tellico Plains route, but now it’s interspersed with farm valleys and open landscapes rather than pure forest. At about 66 feet of climbing per mile, this route offers a more relaxed, touring-friendly pace compared to the concentrated elevation work on the Tellico Plains approach.
Conasauga Falls Trail: A notable landmark along the Ducktown route is Conasauga Falls Trail – a beautiful waterfall destination that adds to the scenic character of this approach. The trail area represents the transition from open farm country back into the dense Cherokee National Forest as you near Mountain Retreat.
Railroad Crossings – New Factor Introduced: The Ducktown route features railroad crossings 🚂 – a new element in our rating system. These crossings connect you to the region’s rich railroad history, including the historic copper mining operations around Ducktown and the rail lines that once served these remote mountain communities. Whether active lines requiring caution or historic rail corridors that shaped these mountains, the railroad crossings remind you that this area was once (and in some cases still is) dependent on rail transportation through challenging terrain.
The extended distance and multiple communities make this the choice for riders coming from Georgia or southern Tennessee who want more time in the saddle exploring rural mountain character.
THE DESTINATION: MOUNTAIN RETREAT & THE SALOON VENUE
The Story – From Vacation to Forever Dream: Mountain Retreat represents an incredible entrepreneurial journey by owners Richard and Antonio. What started as a simple vacation trip to Tennessee turned into something they never could have imagined – a new life, a new purpose, and a place where they could share their dream with others.
In their own words: “This is where our journey truly began. What started as a simple trip to Tennessee turned into something we never could have imagined — a new life, a new purpose, and a place where we could share with others. We’re glad you’re here to be part of our story.”
After buying the property, they poured everything they had into restoring it. A year and a half of the hardest work they’d ever done, Mountain Retreat came to life. Today, this once-forgotten property has been brought back to life while preserving its original character and charm.
What They’ve Built:
- Mountain Retreat – Three short-term rental accommodations (including the famous “Garage” cabin)
- The Saloon Venue – Event space for weddings, proposals, elopements, and photo sessions
- A general store – Snacks and drinks for guests
- The Nut House – Home of the best boiled peanuts around!
- Their forever home – Where Richard and Antonio live and operate their dream
What Makes It Special: Mountain Retreat isn’t just a cabin – it’s a 5.0-star experience (3 perfect reviews on Google) that embodies everything riders seek after a day in the mountains:
- Stunning Views: Especially at sunrise when the Tennessee mountains reveal themselves
- Stargazing Paradise: Minimal light pollution lets you see the Milky Way
- Cozy & Clean: “Beautiful mountain retreat! The cabin was clean, cozy, and had everything I needed” – Jess (5 stars)
- Amazing Coffee & Owners: Multiple reviews mention “amazing place, amazing coffee, and amazing owners”
- Pet-Friendly: Bring your riding companion (the four-legged kind)
- Family Perfect: “So cozy and comfortable for my family and my pet” – Jessica Jackson
- Thoughtful Details: “The owners are so thoughtful in any need you may have” – Jessica Jackson
- Peaceful & Relaxing: “Super peaceful and relaxing, and the host was very friendly and responsive”
Perfect Reviews:
- Jess (5 stars, 3 months ago): “Beautiful mountain retreat! The cabin was clean, cozy, and had everything I needed. The views were stunning, especially at sunrise and under the stars at night. Super peaceful and relaxing, and the host was very friendly and responsive. Highly recommend!”
- Kat (5 stars, 3 weeks ago): “amazing place, amazing coffee, and amazing owners. 10/10 recommend. will be back a lot.”
- Jessica Jackson (5 stars, 4 months ago): “Absolutely amazing. They literally have everything you need. The owners are so thoughtful in any need you may have. So cozy and comfortable for my family and my pet. Loved our stay and will be back if we are heading near this location again. Well worth it. We had the garage accommodation.”
The Mission: “Choose our establishment. Choose small. Support us and help us grow. Bless us and be blessed.”
Location:
- 12968 New Hwy 68, Tellico Plains, TN 37385
- Phone: (423) 404-2455
- Owners: Richard and Antonio
THE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE: CENTER OF THREE RIDING REGIONS
Mountain Retreat’s location is no accident – it sits perfectly positioned between three of the Southeast’s premier riding destinations:
North Georgia Mountains (South):
- Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and rail bikes
- Blairsville to Blue Ridge Cowmute routes
- Ellijay farm country
- Route 52 mountain passes
- Fort Mountain State Park
- Cohutta Overlook
Western North Carolina (East):
- Andrews Valley Rail Tours
- Nantahala River area
- Great Smoky Mountains
- Western NC back roads
- Conasauga Falls
East Tennessee (West/North):
- Cherohala Skyway (Richard and Antonio’s #1 recommendation!)
- Ocoee River whitewater area
- Chattanooga approaches
- Bald River Falls
- Cherokee National Forest
- Buck Bald panoramic views
What This Means For Riders: Instead of choosing one region for your riding weekend, Mountain Retreat lets you experience all three. Day 1: Explore the Cherohala Skyway and Tennessee wilderness. Day 2: Ride south through Georgia farm country. Day 3: Head east into Western NC mountains. All from one comfortable, affordable base with amazing coffee and owners who genuinely care about your experience.
This is why the “How To Get There” concept matters – depending on where you start your adventure, you’ll approach Mountain Retreat from different directions. But once there, you have equal access to three states’ worth of legendary riding.
THINGS TO DO ONCE YOU ARRIVE
Mountain Retreat sits in the heart of incredible riding and outdoor recreation territory. Here’s what Richard and Antonio recommend:
The Cherohala Skyway ⭐ OUR FAVORITE DRIVE Take a scenic ride on The Cherohala Skyway that will take you through the Cherokee National Forest, the Appalachian Mountains, and into the Smoky Mountains. This is a MUST SEE and DO if you’re visiting Tellico Plains. There are plenty of pull-off spots for the perfect photos and scenery you could only dream about.
Bald River Falls Bald River Falls and Baby Falls are a must-see when visiting the area. It’s one of Richard and Antonio’s favorite falls without a hike – this fall is right near the parking lot, making it easy to see for everyone.
Indian Boundary Lake The perfect postcard setting with tree canopy in every direction. Located off of the Cherohala Skyway. Fishing, boating, and simply relaxing in a stunning mountain lake environment.
Buck Bald Buck Bald is about to become one of your new favorite places! This bald mountain peak, located in the Coker Creek community of Tellico Plains (inside the Tellico Ranger District of the Cherokee National Forest), offers panoramic views of the majestic peaks of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. To the north and east are the Nantahala and Yellow Creek mountains of North Carolina. To the south are the North Georgia mountains around Blairsville, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay. In the west is Tennessee’s Big Frog and Little Frog wilderness areas along with Chilhowee Mountain and the Hiwassee and Ocoee River breaks. When you arrive at Buck Bald, you’ll notice a stone marker spelling “C-15” in large letters – this marks where the Forest Service’s fire tower used to be located. This peaceful mountain peak is one of the top places to visit in East Tennessee.
Trail of Tears Historic Sites The landscape in and around Tellico Plains features designated sections of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail and protected public lands. Significant sites in the area, such as the Charles Hall Museum and Heritage Center and protected acreage in nearby Coker Creek, are recognized by the National Park Service for their historical importance and are dedicated to honoring the memory of the Cherokee people who suffered and died during the migration.
Charles Hall Museum & Heritage Center Located at the entrance to the Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains, this museum preserves the Appalachian, Native American, and local history of the region. Named after Charles Hall (1924–2014), who served as mayor of Tellico Plains for 31 years and was key in creating the Cherohala Skyway. Special note: The car featured in the museum was built in Mountain Retreat’s garage by the original owner, Charlie Young!
The Lost Sea A historic Registered National Landmark within the extensive Craighead Caverns, featuring America’s largest underground lake. Guided tours include boat rides, rare anthodite formations, and deep history spanning from Cherokee use to Confederate saltpeter mining and a 1905 discovery.
The Tellico Amish Market A must-see while visiting Tellico Plains. Be sure to enjoy their fresh fruits, vegetables, and fresh-baked goods.
Gold Panning at Coker Creek Coker Creek Gold Camp is a recreational campground and historic gold panning destination at 12451 TN-68, Tellico Plains. Famous as the location where the National Geographic show “Diggers” filmed an expedition. The camp provides hands-on gold panning and sluicing in the creek, with on-site managers offering demonstrations and equipment to help beginners find their first flakes of gold. The camp is situated in the heart of Tennessee’s 1827 gold rush area, near historical landmarks like the Unicoi Turnpike, a route used during the Trail of Tears.
WHICH ROUTE SHOULD YOU TAKE?
Your starting location determines your route – it’s that simple:
Take the Ducktown Route (South) If You’re Coming From:
- Georgia: Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville
- Border Towns: McCaysville/Copperhill area
- Ocoee River Area: Popular with whitewater enthusiasts and adventure riders
- Chattanooga, Tennessee: Eastern approach
- Cleveland, Tennessee: Direct southern access
- Any southern or southeastern approach to the area
Geographic Logic: The Ducktown route serves riders coming from Georgia and southern Tennessee. If you’re riding from Blairsville, Blue Ridge, or Ellijay, you’re already in this corridor. Chattanooga and Cleveland riders naturally flow through this route. You’ll pass through Ducktown → Harbuck → Turtletown → Farner → Apalachia → Coker Creek area → Mountain Retreat, experiencing authentic farm country (CowFactor 3), railroad crossings 🚂, and multiple small mountain communities across 21.51 miles in about 33 minutes.
Take the Tellico Plains Route (North) If You’re Coming From:
- Knoxville, Tennessee: Western approach
- Western Tennessee areas
- Already riding the Cherohala Skyway from the Tennessee side
- Anywhere west/northwest of the destination
Geographic Logic: The Tellico Plains route serves riders approaching from western Tennessee. If you’re coming from Knoxville or already exploring the western side of the Cherohala Skyway, this is your natural approach. At just 11.34 miles and 20 minutes, it’s the quick, direct shot through Cherokee National Forest wilderness (CowFactor 1) with concentrated elevation work that still earns PeakFactor 3.
Ride Both (The Loop): The ultimate experience: Arrive via one route, spend the night at Mountain Retreat, depart via the other route. This gives you 32.85 miles total of Tennessee mountain riding with completely different character on each leg:
- Georgia/Chattanooga riders: Arrive via Ducktown (21.51 miles, familiar territory with farm country and communities), depart via Tellico Plains (11.34 miles, quick shot through wilderness), continue to Cherohala Skyway
- Knoxville/Western TN riders: Arrive via Tellico Plains (11.34 miles, direct wilderness route), depart via Ducktown (21.51 miles, explore southern farm country and communities), continue to Georgia mountains or Ocoee River area
This loop strategy lets you experience both wilderness forest riding (Tellico Plains) AND authentic farm country with railroad history (Ducktown) while turning Mountain Retreat into a perfect midpoint rest rather than a turnaround destination. The total loop is just 32.85 miles – perfect for a morning departure, full day of exploring nearby attractions, and return by evening.
ROUTE COMPARISON:
| Feature | Tellico Plains (North) | Ducktown (South) |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | 11.34 miles | 21.51 miles |
| Riding Time | ~20 minutes | ~33 minutes |
| Climbing Intensity | 115 ft/mile | 66 ft/mile |
| CowFactor | 🐄 (1) – Minimal farms | 🐄🐄🐄 (3) – Authentic farm country |
| PeakFactor | 🏔️🏔️🏔️ (3) – 1,300 ft climb | 🏔️🏔️🏔️ (3) – 1,428 ft climb |
| Railroad Crossings | None | 🚂 YES |
| Character | Wilderness/Forest, concentrated elevation | Farms/Mountains/Rail/Communities, touring pace |
| Notable Landmarks | Cherokee National Forest | Conasauga Falls Trail, Ducktown, Harbuck, Turtletown, Farner, Apalachia |
| Coming From | Knoxville, Western TN, Cherohala Skyway | Georgia (Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville), Chattanooga, Cleveland, Ocoee River |
| Best For | Quick arrival, max attraction time, concentrated riding | Extended journey, community exploration, relaxed touring |
Loop Total: 32.85 miles combining both routes
PERFECT FOR:
- Riders seeking a destination cabin after a mountain ride
- Multi-day riding adventures exploring three states from one base
- Weekend getaways combining riding and relaxation
- Couples wanting a romantic mountain escape (The Saloon Venue offers wedding packages!)
- Families with pets looking for mountain peace
- Anyone exploring the Cherohala Skyway area
- Stargazers and sunrise chasers
- Testing the “How To Get There” route options before committing
- Short loop rides (32.85 miles total) with overnight stay
- Supporting small business owners with a passionate story
- Experiencing genuine Appalachian hospitality
- Riders wanting central access to North Georgia, Western NC, and East Tennessee
- Quick access rides – both routes under 35 minutes
PRO TIPS:
Route Selection:
- Coming from Georgia/Chattanooga? Take Ducktown route (21.51 mi) – it’s your natural approach
- Coming from Knoxville/Western TN? Take Tellico Plains route (11.34 mi) – direct and efficient
- Already on Cherohala Skyway? Tellico Plains route (11.34 mi) connects seamlessly
- Want the loop experience? Either direction works – total loop is just 32.85 miles
- Railroad crossings on Ducktown route: Exercise caution, look both ways, respect active lines
- Conasauga Falls Trail area: Consider a quick stop if you’re a waterfall enthusiast
Multi-Day Riding Strategy:
- Day 1: Arrive at Mountain Retreat via your natural route (under 35 minutes from either direction), explore Cherohala Skyway
- Day 2: Ride south into North Georgia (Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Ellijay routes)
- Day 3: Ride east into Western NC (Andrews Valley Rail Tours, Nantahala area)
- Day 4: Depart via the opposite route from your arrival, exploring new territory
- Morning loop option: Depart Mountain Retreat via one route, ride to destination, return via other route – full loop is only 66 miles Round Trip
Booking & Arrival:
- Book directly with Mountain Retreat – Richard and Antonio are incredibly responsive
- Call ahead: (423) 404-2455
- Check-in timing is flexible with these short approach times
- Request the “Garage” cabin if you want that specific accommodation
- Mention you’re arriving via motorcycle – the owners appreciate riders
- Ask about The Saloon Venue if you’re interested in event space or photo opportunities
At The Destination:
- Plan to wake early for sunrise views – multiple reviews specifically mention stunning sunrise
- Clear night? Step outside for incredible stargazing with minimal light pollution
- Try the boiled peanuts at The Nut House!
- Visit the general store for snacks and drinks
- Richard and Antonio are “very friendly and responsive” to any needs
- Pet-friendly, so four-legged riding companions welcome
Nearby Attractions Planning:
- Cherohala Skyway: Richard and Antonio’s #1 recommendation – plan at least a half-day
- Bald River Falls: Easy access, no hiking required – perfect quick stop
- Buck Bald: Worth the trip for panoramic views of Georgia, NC, and Tennessee
- Charles Hall Museum: See the car built in Mountain Retreat’s garage!
- Gold Panning: Book ahead at Coker Creek Gold Camp for a unique experience
- Indian Boundary Lake: Perfect for relaxing after a ride
- The Tellico Amish Market: Fresh produce and baked goods
- With routes this short, you can easily ride to Mountain Retreat, explore all day, and still return for sunset
Return Journey:
- If you took Tellico Plains up (11.34 mi), consider Ducktown back (21.51 mi) for variety
- If you took Ducktown up (21.51 mi), consider Tellico Plains back (11.34 mi) for quick return
- The 1,300 ft climb from Tellico Plains becomes descent on return
- The 1,428 ft climb from Ducktown becomes descent on return
- Both routes reverse well for different experiences each direction
- Use Mountain Retreat as a hub – explore different directions each day, return each night in under 35 minutes from either approach
THE “HOW TO GET THERE” CONCEPT:
This is the first in our “How To Get There” series – showing multiple routes to the same destination. Not every ride needs to be a loop or a one-way journey. Sometimes the best rides end at a place worth staying, and knowing your options for getting there makes the experience better.
Mountain Retreat earned its perfect 5.0-star rating because it delivers exactly what riders need after a day in the mountains: peace, comfort, views, and owners who genuinely care. Richard and Antonio’s journey from vacation to forever dream resonates with anyone who’s ever imagined leaving everything behind for a simpler, more purposeful life.
The Strategic Location Advantage: What makes Mountain Retreat special isn’t just the cabin itself – it’s the location. Positioned perfectly between North Georgia Mountains, Western North Carolina, and East Tennessee riding areas, it serves as an ideal base camp for multi-day riding adventures. You’re not choosing one region; you’re getting access to three. And with both approach routes taking under 35 minutes, Mountain Retreat functions as a true hub – you can depart in the morning, ride all day exploring distant attractions, and return for sunset.
We’re showing you both paths because the journey matters as much as the destination – and in this case, your starting location naturally determines which route makes sense. Georgia and southern Tennessee riders take the Ducktown route (21.51 miles) through farm country and railroad history. Knoxville and western Tennessee riders take the Tellico Plains route (11.34 miles) through wilderness forest. Both arrive at the same perfect destination in under 35 minutes.
The New Railroad Crossing Factor 🚂: We’re introducing Railroad Crossings as a new route element to watch for. The Ducktown route earns this designation, connecting you to Tennessee’s rich railroad history – from copper mining operations to the rail lines that once served these isolated mountain communities. These crossings add character and historical context to your ride, reminding you that these mountains were once conquered by steam engines and the people who built the rail lines through impossible terrain.
Supporting Small Business: “Choose our establishment. Choose small. Support us and help us grow. Bless us and be blessed.” – Richard and Antonio
When you stay at Mountain Retreat, you’re not just booking a cabin – you’re supporting two people who left everything behind to follow a dream, worked incredibly hard to restore a forgotten property, and now dedicate themselves to creating memorable experiences for their guests. That’s the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that makes motorcycle tourism meaningful.
📍 Full route details and GPS files available From Ducktown and Tellico Plains
🎥 Filmed with Insta360 X4 and X5
📊 Both routes mapped with precision elevation data
🐄 CowFactor varies: 1 (Tellico) vs 3 (Ducktown)
🏔️ PeakFactor consistent: 3 on both routes
🚂 Railroad Crossings: Ducktown route
🏡 Mountain Retreat: (423) 404-2455 | 5.0 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
💑 Owners: Richard and Antonio – “From Vacation to Forever Dream”
🗺️ Strategic Location: Center of North Georgia, Western NC & East Tennessee riding!
⏱️ Quick Access: 20 minutes from Tellico Plains | 33 minutes from Ducktown
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