Trail Overview

Tatham Gap Road, also known as Forest Service Road 423, is a 7.1-mile long two-way gravel road that connects Andrews, North Carolina, with Robbinsville, North Carolina. Passing through the Nantahala National Forest, Tatham Gap Road also connects with FS423B, which takes travelers to the Joanna Bald Fire Tower. Seasonal closures are observed between January and April, weather permitting.

Photos of Tatham Gap Road - FS 423

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Difficulty

Well-maintained gravel road generally accessible by plated and registered motorcycles, UTVs, passenger cars, and 2wd vehicles. While steep in some areas, weather can change the condition of the road, with washouts and washboards becoming common following heavy rains.

History

This road was originally cut around 1836 by the US Army Corps of Engineers. A fort was established near present-day Robbinsville and Cherokee Native American Indians were temporarily quartered at the fort while en route to Oklahoma.

Technical Rating

John Smith

Aug 14, 2026

Open

Normal

Trail is in great shape right now. Previously downed trees have been removed or cut. A nice smooth simple but fun gravel ride with decently banked turns, nice elevation changes, trails along slight ledges, awesome views through the trees, river, and a nice easy, fun drive into town. I used 4WD, bc why not and also due to layer of slightly loose gravel and incline and decline changes, banked turns some fun angles; might be tricky with AWD but you could do it if you send it and keep momentum.

Dylan Blanchard

Jun 03, 2026

Open

Normal

Road in good condition