Unaka Mountain Wilderness Area, Tri Cities Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  Start your journey in the Tri-Cities area. If you're in Johnson City, take I-26 E towards Elizabethton. After about 15 miles, take exit 24 for US-321 N towards Boone. Continue on US-321 N for approximately 10 miles until you reach Unicoi. From Unicoi, head east on US-19E for about 5 miles. Look for signs directing you to the Unaka Mountain Wilderness Area. Follow the signs and park at the designated area. Please note that there may be a small parking fee of around $5, so be prepared with cash or a card.

• Public Transportation

  While public transportation options are limited, you can take a bus from Johnson City to Elizabethton using the local transit service. Upon arriving in Elizabethton, you will need to use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach Unicoi, as public transportation does not go directly to the Unaka Mountain Wilderness Area. The rideshare will cost approximately $15-$25 depending on the time of day and demand. Ensure you check the bus schedule in advance and plan your rideshare accordingly to minimize wait times.

• Bicycle

  If you're feeling adventurous and would like to cycle, you can bike from Johnson City to the Unaka Mountain Wilderness Area. Take the same route as the car guidance, but be aware that this is a long ride, approximately 30 miles. It's recommended to start early in the day to avoid traffic and ensure you have enough daylight for your return trip. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no bike rentals available in the immediate area, so you will need to bring your own bicycle.