From I-40, Buzzard Roost can be accessed and connected with the Old Cataloochee Turnpike to enter into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The eastern side is narrower than the western side, only one vehicle wide, as it follows a shelf around the mountains. There are plenty of blind turns that require caution since locals use this road as a shortcut over the mountains. This road is impassable during high-water flow as it crosses the Pigeon River over a short cement bridge designed to let high water flow over it, not under it. Thus, your vehicle will be swept down the river if you attempt crossing during high flow. Two campsites are located on the eastern side.