Wayah Road / Nantahala Gorge Bypass (SR-1310)
A legendary mountain pass running from Franklin up and over 4,180-foot Wayah Gap in the Nantahala National Forest, skirting pristine Nantahala Lake before plunging down the Nantahala River canyon into US-19/74. Wayah Road offers intimate canopy-covered curves with damp, shaded apexes, mossy stone walls, and sharp grade changes. Provides direct access to Wayah Bald Tower via gravel spur. A favorite among local riders seeking a more technical, uncrowded alternative to the main four-lane gorge highway.
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Rider-Friendly Lodging
Beloved, unvarnished Appalachian country diner on Robbinsville's historic courthouse square. The antidote to tourist traps, where locals, loggers, and road-weary motorcyclists mingle over steaming plates of comfort food. Warm mountain hospitality that treats two-wheeled travelers like family.
Tank-Bag Quick Reference Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
How many curves and miles is Wayah Road / Nantahala Gorge Bypass (SR-1310)? ▼
Wayah Road / Nantahala Gorge Bypass (SR-1310) spans 28 miles and packs approximately 180 curves (6.4 curves per mile) with an elevation delta of 1,800 ft - 4,180 ft and technical rating 7.5/10.
Where are the start and end coordinates? ▼
The route starts at Franklin / US-64, NC (Latitude 35.1568, Longitude -83.4246) and finishes at Nantahala River Gorge / US-19/74, NC (Latitude 35.2891, Longitude -83.6784).
How can I download the GPX file for GPS navigation? ▼
Click the "Download Free GPX" button on this guide. The standard XML file is 100% free and ready to load into Garmin zūmo, BMW Motorrad Connected, Rever, Scenic, or Google Maps.