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

Dylan Blanchard

Jun 03, 2026

Open

Road in good condition