Donley Cabin

About

Built in 1861, Donley Cabin is a historic double-pen structure combining English, Germanic, and Swiss chalet-type architectural influences rarely seen combined in Southern Appalachia. The primitive one-room cabin sits in a wooded area of Cherokee National Forest's Tellico River region at 2,000 feet elevation, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into Appalachian frontier life. The cabin accommodates up to six guests on a full-size metal bed frame and two bunk beds (mattresses not provided). Amenities include a kitchen table with chairs, rocking chairs on the front porch, an interior fireplace, outside grill, and a composting toilet outhouse. There is no electricity, running water, or potable water on site. Guests must bring all supplies including bedding, lanterns, food, water, and toilet paper. The surrounding area offers excellent recreation including trout fishing in the North River and nearby tributaries, hiking on trails like Sycamore Creek Trail, and proximity to Big Cove Branch waterfalls. The 90-foot Bald River Falls lies several miles south. Hunters frequent nearby trails from September through December. The Cherohala Skyway scenic byway is easily accessible from the cabin.

Directions

From Tellico Plains, travel east on TN 165 (Cherohala Skyway) for 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 210 and continue approximately 10 miles past the Ranger Station. Turn left onto Forest Road 217 (North River Road) and proceed approximately 5 miles to the parking area on the right. From the parking area, follow the quarter-mile trail over North River to the cabin.