It's not that far. Maybe 5-6 miles. Just hang in the middle of the pack while driving to the trailhead and you should be fine.
Although I must say that I don't condone driving a vehicle on the road without insurance. As a matter of fact, I believe that insurance and tags are required in all National Forrest ORV areas, including Tellico. You should get with your insurance company and let them know that it will only see minimal road use, and mostly offroad use. Just a "recreational" vehicle. They should be able to hook you up with a cheap insurance policy that will cover you in case something unexpected happens while out on the trail. Or you could check with Grundy Specialty Vehicle Insurance. They've got CHEAP insurance for these types of occasions. Just think seriously about it, man. What would happen if, heaven forbid, you guys ran over a little kid while out there on, or heading to the trails? Who do you want the parents coming after? You, or your insurance company?