Tray Mountain Road

[BabySue]

My understanding is that Tray Mountain Road crosses the AT twice, once at Tray Gap and once about a trail mile south of Tray Gap. True? Is the road passable for an SUV (in the summer)? Thanks.

[Lone Wolf]

yes and yes.

[BabySue]

Thanks and thanks.

[Ox97GaMe]

Easiest to access from the north end. As you are heading S. from Hiawassee, the road is to the left just after you cross over a creek bridge. You can also get to Tray Gap by taking the gravel road left at the base of the climb up to Unicoi Gap as you head South. It is a long, winding road if you come in from the Helen side.

The road doesnt cross, but is easy access from the old Cheese Factory location if you are looking for another junction or exit point.

[generoll]

FS 283 turns left off GA 75 as you are going to Helen from Hiawassee. There is a shallow ford and then the road continues, crossing the AT first at Indian Grave Gap. Once you follow the road to the ridge line you will need to make a sharp left and then follow that road past the second crossing of the AT and past the blue blazed trail from the Cheese Factory to water and on to the parking lot at Tray Gap. Here you will be right beside the AT. A bit bumpy in spots, but perfectly passable for any vehicle.

[peakbagger]

I took a Honda civic though the shallow ford several years back, I would not have wanted to go through it after heavy rain.

[Tennessee Viking]

Tray Mtn Road should be passable for you. Its recommended for high clearance vehicles. The lower Chimney Mtn Road is very slow going and very narrow.

[BabySue]

Sincere thanks for this detailed information.

[al_stargazer]

Would a vehicle be safe if we parked it at Tray Mt. Gap? It would be there a week.