From Vonore, I'd probably stay on 411 south to 68; turn left & then down to Tellico Plains. Take a rest stop at the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center. From there take 360 heading north back to 411; then onto 72 and make your way back to 129, thru the Dragon, turn left on Hellbender 28 and travel back to Fontana Lodge. At least the scenery would be a little different. FWIW

Or maybe one of the old, original northern routes from years way back. The Skyway isn't in play on these routes.