Exploring North Carolina’s Hidden Gem: Moonshiner 28
North Carolina is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts, offering a variety of scenic routes that showcase the state’s natural beauty and rich history. From the coastal charm of the Outer Banks to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, and the thrilling Tail of the Dragon, the state has something for every adventurer. However, there’s another route that often goes unnoticed but is just as captivating—State Highway 28, also known as Moonshiner 28.
This lesser-known road stretches 103 miles from Deals Gap in North Carolina, winding through Franklin and Highlands before crossing into Georgia and South Carolina, ultimately ending in Walhalla. Along the way, travelers can experience hairpin curves, stunning mountain vistas, secluded lakes, incredible waterfalls, historic homes, and even legal distilleries nestled off the beaten path.
A Road with a Rich History
Moonshiner 28 has a fascinating history tied to the Prohibition era. Before federal Prohibition began in 1920, North Carolina had already enacted its own statewide alcohol ban in 1908. This long dry spell led to the rise of an underground trade of moonshine, which became a significant part of the region’s culture. The highway was particularly useful for bootleggers because it spanned multiple state lines, allowing them to evade law enforcement.
While the Tail of the Dragon is famous for its 318 curves in just 11 miles, Moonshiner 28 offers just as many twists and turns, along with breathtaking views. However, it remains less crowded, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more peaceful and scenic drive. Unlike the Tail of the Dragon, which has seen an increase in accidents, Moonshiner 28 provides a safer and more enjoyable experience for drivers throughout the year.
Must-See Stops Along the Way
As you begin your journey on Moonshiner 28, the first leg takes you from Deals Gap to Franklin, covering about 60 miles. It’s essential to fill up your gas tank whenever possible, as some gas stations have closed since 2020, and refueling opportunities may be limited. Along the way, take a detour to enjoy the sweeping views of Fontana Dam overlooking Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you continue, you’ll encounter multiple twisties and a thrilling 300-foot elevation drop in under a mile.
After passing Rainbow Falls and entering the Stecoah Valley, visit the Stecoah Valley Cultural Center for live bluegrass music, artisan workshops, and local history. Further along, Iron Horse Motorcycle Resort is a popular spot for bikers, offering dining and lodging options ranging from tent camping to covered wagons. Cowee, once known for its clay used in Wedgewood china and gemstones, now has only a few mines open to the public, but Old Cardinal Gem Mine and Mason’s Mine remain accessible to visitors.
Discovering Franklin and Beyond
As you approach Franklin, the road transitions into a four-lane highway. Travelers report that the state’s highway patrol monitors this area for speeders coming off the mountain. Although Highway 28 has been restored to bypass downtown Franklin, it’s worth taking a detour onto Main Street to explore the shops, restaurants, and historic sights, including the old jailhouse-turned-museum. Enjoy a beer at Lazy Hiker Brewing or a riverfront brew at Currahee Brewing Co., and consider staying overnight at McTernon Manor, a historic 1888 house.
The next leg of Moonshiner 28 incorporates North Carolina’s Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, a summer road trip in its own right. U.S. Route 64 and N.C. Highway 28 converge from Franklin to Highlands, passing through the stunning Cullasaja Gorge. Here, you can visit Cullasaja Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Dry Falls (which you can walk behind without getting wet), and Quarry Falls, also known as Bust-Yer-Butt Falls. Each waterfall offers a unique experience, whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery.
Final Leg to Walhalla
When you reach Highlands, where a major moonshiner showdown supposedly occurred, you’ll reconnect with Highway 28. Spend the night at Skyline Lodge, a beautiful mountaintop resort. For the final 30 miles, continue south into Georgia and follow Moonshiner 28 all the way to Walhalla, a small mountain town known as South Carolina’s “garden of the gods.”
If you’re looking for a taste of real moonshine, consider detouring to legal distilleries in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, just 60 miles northeast of Deals Gap. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery offers a wide range of moonshine flavors. Alternatively, from Franklin, take a side trip onto US-276 toward Cedar Mountain for a 60-mile journey to Cedar Mountain Moonshine, known for its small-batch moonshine, which is the highest-proof in North Carolina.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, Moonshiner 28 offers an unforgettable journey through North Carolina’s scenic landscapes and rich history. With its winding roads, breathtaking views, and hidden gems, this road is a true hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
