Dragon's Tail-N. C. & TN.

[ultracyclist]

I understand that the "Tail" is about 12 miles with 312 turns. Before I die, I am going to ride it.

Whom among you has ridden the "Tail" and what was it like?

Is there anything like the "tail" in the Midwest?


Thank you, Ultra

[redhot]

I believe it is 318 curves in 11 miles - It just sounds awesome. I know there are several guys/gals out there that have done this and they just rave about it. It's also my goal to do that ride as well. I'm way to new at riding to try it this year but maybe in a year or two. They say to go in the morning and during the week. I can't wait to try it. As for the midwest??? There's a hill here in Peoria that has 3 curves in about 1/4 mile if you want to practice :laugh . Seriously - You could probably find some nice roads in southern Indiana but other than that - I don't know of any. You can ride some pretty nice roads in all of the states that border Illinois - but none IN Illinois :banghead

[04R1150RS]

Yup, 318 curves in 11 miles, it's one decreasing radius turn after the next :brad
Even if your not very good (i'm not) it's fun to ride at a brisk pace(let your own experience determine what brisk is). I've only riden it twice the 1st time it was dry and the second time it was a little wet...so really only ridden it once. Beautiful country there and worth a trip. The sacrificial tree is pretty cool too, it's full of various sport bike memorabilia.
Do a web search for Deals Gap for info on it.

[Voni]

I still remember vividly the first time I rode the Dragon.

My R11RS had just over 6,000 sMiles when (at Carol Anger and Leo Karnes wedding rally in Connecticut) I heard people talking about the road. It wasn't far out of the way home to Kansas so I made a plan to do it. I dreamed about it the night before - scared me to death.

It was a cold, drizzly Tuesday morning as I stopped at the Crossroads of Time campground and store at the south edge of the Dragon. I asked if I could buy a tshirt if I promised to give it back if I didn't make it. Pete smilled and said "sure!"

I rode up to the dam - and back again - grinning from ear to ear. I bought one of Pete's famous sub sandwiches built from scratch with whatever I wanted. I ate quickly and mounted up and rode up and back again. And again. But this time Pete said if I came back, he'd have to adopt me.

By the time I stopped it was late afternoon and getting really warm. I still had my electric vest on but hadn't noticed anything but the curves all day. Finally tearing myself away, I rode toward home but couldn't stop grinning.

Two years later, I took Paul to the CrossRoads of Time. Paul rode over to a picnic table to set up camp. As he got off his bike, he saw a balding gentleman with a white apron, arms outstreched saying, "Voni, you came back!"

Pete and Doris were institutions at Deal's Gap like George is in Fairbanks.

Voni
sMiling :wow :heart

[warredon]

I don't live very far from there, but I only hit it about two or three times a year and then I try to do it on a weekday. The weekends are just too busy. It is a lot of fun, but I have grown to like the Cherohala Skyway a lot better. It is nearby, not nearly as crowded, a lot more scenic, and a longer ride. The last time I was at the Dragon there was a truck blocking the road, I had to turn around and go back the way I came. They shouldn't even be allowed on that road.

[warredon]

This is the tree of shame.

[k12koop]

I understand that the "Tail" is about 12 miles with 312 turns. Before I die, I am going to ride it.

Whom among you has ridden the "Tail" and what was it like?

Is there anything like the "tail" in the Midwest?


Thank you, Ultra
I guess I can speak up. It is 40 miles from my house to the pumps at the Cross Roads of time (CROT) which is considered the south end of the dragon. This includes riding the dragon. When you come up to the area what most folks ride is the Overlook back to the CROT. That distance is actually a touch over 9 miles. Contrary to popular belief this not beyond the ability of most experienced riders.

There are some factors that can bite you however. Most wrecks come from people who are new to the area and are here to test their metal. A bad idea with a capital B. Also rumors about not riding it during the weekend can be true during the height of the riding season. Not only has it gained legendary status with bike riders it has become so with many car clubs as well so it can be quite busy.

The pluses are that the pavement is for the most part excelent, and their are no real side roads entering the 9 mile stretch other than pull offs and a few dirt trails used by hikers for the most part. The curves are and can be quite extreme but most of them are mearly bends in the road. There are handful however where the degree of curve is 90 degrees or more. You will do yourself a big favor by riding thru atleast once to get the lay of the land.

The downside of the dragon is the traffic. It can be extreme and the skill level of a lot of the people is well below the speed level they use while riding it. Also, unlike a race track, there is little or no runnoff area on a lot of the curves. If you blow one during peak traffic you are quite likely to be struck by a car or another bike. If you do not you are likely to go over the bank or into the bank on the uphill side. Neither of these is appealing if you are not into pain.

If you plan on riding it on weekends try to make it early. The traffic first thing in the morning is not bad on Saturday and manageable till about 9am on Sunday.

There are alot of appealing roads in the are to explore as well. If you come this way let me know and I will see if I can meet you and guide you thru or at least give you some other alternatives to visit while you are here.

Koop

[stan]

It's definately worth the trip. I've ridden through it 11 times now. Do not go on the weekend, too much traffic and police potential. First time through you will not need to get higher than 2nd gear. Its actually hard to maintain your concentration if you run it several times in a row. I once drove it at night (R1100RT), two up in the dense fog with wet leaves on the road. They should have a special t-shirt for that one!! All I knew is that there was a turn ahead, just had no idea how sharp or in what direction,but definately another turn. First time through, don't try to hurry, it's even a blast at moderate speeds.

[warredon]

A little closer look at some of what you will find on that famous tree.

[cjack]

I believe it is 318 curves in 11 miles - It just sounds awesome. I know there are several guys/gals out there that have done this and they just rave about it. It's also my goal to do that ride as well. I'm way to new at riding to try it this year but maybe in a year or two. They say to go in the morning and during the week. I can't wait to try it. As for the midwest??? There's a hill here in Peoria that has 3 curves in about 1/4 mile if you want to practice :laugh . Seriously - You could probably find some nice roads in southern Indiana but other than that - I don't know of any. You can ride some pretty nice roads in all of the states that border Illinois - but none IN Illinois :banghead

Southern Illinois, particularly along the Mississippi, there are roads. I believe
Calhoun county is nice too. It's a peninsula between the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. It's the only county in Illinois without a railroad I think.
Nothing like 318 curves in 11 miles. No crazys on crotch rockets though, straightening out right handers.

[k12koop]

I don't live very far from there, but I only hit it about two or three times a year and then I try to do it on a weekday. The weekends are just too busy. It is a lot of fun, but I have grown to like the Cherohala Skyway a lot better. It is nearby, not nearly as crowded, a lot more scenic, and a longer ride. The last time I was at the Dragon there was a truck blocking the road, I had to turn around and go back the way I came. They shouldn't even be allowed on that road.
Don, small world. I was actually stuck on the other side of that mishap giving riders re-routing instructions to get around that truck. Interesting side note, they had just installed that new section of guard rail about 2 weeks before.

Side note two, if you like a cheeseburger, fries and a coke the food at the CROT cannot be beat. According to my quicken I had 51 of them in 2005.

Koop

[Kbrick]

Yup, 318 curves in 11 miles, it's one decreasing radius turn after the next :brad
Even if your not very good (i'm not) it's fun to ride at a brisk pace(let your own experience determine what brisk is). I've only riden it twice the 1st time it was dry and the second time it was a little wet...so really only ridden it once. Beautiful country there and worth a trip. The sacrificial tree is pretty cool too, it's full of various sport bike memorabilia.
Do a web search for Deals Gap for info on it.

The Dragon is worth the trip to get there. Everything that has been written about it is true in my expierence. I stayed in a town called Andrews Valley its about 20 minutes away from the start/end of Route 129.

I did a loop of the Cherola Skyway then around to the Tenn side to do the Dragon. Tennessee, has paved the road more recently and its bowling alley smooth. The NC side is a little rougher but still good.

The advice about mid week is good, I went on a Thursday and it wasn't crouded at all. Beware of the flying Goldwings though. The folks at The Crossroads of Time are good people, friendly and helpful with any need you may have.

Try this link http://www.tailofthedragon.com/ for more info.

[eddie]

I took my wife to the Dragon her first year of riding her own bike.We had ridden many curves and I wasn't worried about her handling it.We were with a friend and told her we were going through the dragon.On the Tenn. side we pulled over and told her we were there.She went really s l o w,I thought a harley was going to come along and pass her. She has since been three more times and clips along real nice.The last time she came out on the other side with a giant grin on her face.It sure isn't a road to do sight seeing on.

[Visian]

I still remember vividly the first time I rode the Dragon.

My R11RS had just over 6,000 sMiles when (at Carol Anger and Leo Karnes wedding rally in Connecticut) I heard people talking about the road. It wasn't far out of the way home to Kansas so I made a plan to do it. I dreamed about it the night before - scared me to death.


The first time I rode the Dragon, it wasn't called the Dragon. It wasn't recognized as much of anything other than a road.

It was on my first motorcycle tour, on a 1976 R90/6 that I rode from Gainesville, FL during a break from grad school in 1979.

Stumbling across the road completely by accident, I could not get over how cool it was... and for all intents and purposes, this was my first mountain road ride (on a street bike, anyway...).

Riding north, I was so enthused, I turned around and rode it back south. And then north again.

By that time, it was time to find a camping spot, so I took a little dirt road into the woods a few miles, and found a hiking trailhead. From there, I did a little bad thing, hauling my Krausers about a quarter mile into the woods, I pitched my tent in a little clearing and enjoyed the rest of the day. Late that evening a Park Ranger came by and saw my bike parked there with no hiking permit. He poked around with his flashlight a bit, but decided to leave me be.

The next morning I took the dirt road the rest of the way over the hill and found myself in Cades Cove... the western end of the Smokey Mountain National Park.

These days, I never go to the Dragon on the weekend. There's something about being passed on the inside by a slick-shod KTM supermoto bike with the rider wearing titanium knee pucks that throw sparks through the corners that tends to make me want to stay away. :(

Ian

[Montauk]

While I have been to this, but I've heard that from Dixon, IL to Rockford, IL Route 2 is very scenic. It has fair amount of twisties. I was once told by someone who live in Dixon, that you have to be carefull on Route 2, because of twisties, there are lots of accidents that take place.

I "might" do this April. April 10th will be Chicago Region BMW's ride to Starve Rock State Park Near Utica, IL.

[cjack]

While I have been to this, but I've heard that from Dixon, IL to Rockford, IL Route 2 is very scenic. It has fair amount of twisties. I was once told by someone who live in Dixon, that you have to be carefull on Route 2, because of twisties, there are lots of accidents that take place.

I "might" do this April. April 10th will be Chicago Region BMW's ride to Starve Rock State Park Near Utica, IL.

Northwest Illinois is very nice. We have a mountain there...the only one in Illinois.

[kbasa]

I thought it was OK. There are other roads in the region that are equally nice and have significantly less traffic, though.

Compared to roads in the Far West, though, it feels short. :dunno

[StevieWonder]

GREAT road ... we went early in the day before it got crowded and it was very nice. Actually the Cherohala Skyway is just as enjoyable but not as challenging to ride.

Here's a picture of the starting point of the Dragon.

[StevieWonder]

Fontana Dam isn't actually on the Dragon, but it's right there. Worth a side trip.

[StevieWonder]

beautiful day when we were there.

[kbasa]

beautiful day when we were there.

Where's your riding gear?

[SHAG]

The first time I rode the Dragon, it wasn't called the Dragon. It wasn't recognized as much of anything other than a road.

Stumbling across the road completely by accident, I could not get over how cool it was...

These days, I never go to the Dragon on the weekend.

Ian

Same here. I first went thru in 1985 coming up 129 from the south off 74 at Topton. My buddy & I stopped at the North end at the overlook. That night I looked at the map & made an entry in my logbook about what a cool road that was. We never noticed the store at the crossroads. I was living in Raleigh at the time & went to the Smokies for 2 weeks each Summer.

Many years later (back in Pa) a guy asked me if I had ever ridden the Dragon. After looking at maps I told him I probably had been thru there. I found my old log book from the 80's & sure enough, there is was, 129 is a cool road, July 1985. I didn't know it was famous.

I went down there in 99 after getting RT & there it was. The store, video playing on the tv, t-shirts, Squid Central. Since then I've been thru there 3-4 times a year. Fun place to stop on Monday or Tuesday morning about 10-11am & ride thru going North.

My favorite is Wayah Road from 64 Franklin to 74 near Topton. It's about 18 miles with elevation change. Need to watch out for driveways cause a lot of people live on that road :eek

Does anyone know what year the Dragon actually became big news?

[warredon]

My wife and I moved from Florida to eastern Tennessee in the late 70's. Back then the local riders knew about it and just called it by the name of the area which is Deal's Gap. Sometimes we just referred to it as "The Gap." I don't remember it starting to get real busy until sometime in the late 80's or maybe very early 90's. That was the result of a lot of the motorcycle mags giving it a lot of ink. After that it was school's out.

[StevieWonder]

Where's your riding gear?

Those square helmets are HARD to find ... this was the best I could do !!!

[Visian]

My favorite is Wayah Road from 64 Franklin to 74 near Topton. It's about 18 miles with elevation change. Need to watch out for driveways cause a lot of people live on that road :eek


This is a great road, but it is also starting to get a reputation. Locals call it Thunder Road. Great.

Right at the top, just south of where you can go out onto Wayah Bald, there is a dirt road that cuts off and goes south through the Nanatahala Wilderness. Comes out on US 64... on a road called Rainbow Springs.

Nice little trail if you're heading to the GMR on your GS. :)

Ian

[SIBUD]

I believe it is 318 curves in 11 miles - It just sounds awesome. I know there are several guys/gals out there that have done this and they just rave about it. It's also my goal to do that ride as well. I'm way to new at riding to try it this year but maybe in a year or two. They say to go in the morning and during the week. I can't wait to try it. As for the midwest??? There's a hill here in Peoria that has 3 curves in about 1/4 mile if you want to practice :laugh . Seriously - You could probably find some nice roads in southern Indiana but other than that - I don't know of any. You can ride some pretty nice roads in all of the states that border Illinois - but none IN Illinois :banghead

Come one down. Would be happy to show you some great rides in S IL. The Shawnee Ntl Forest is a great place to ride south of Murphysboro. BTW Also a good place to go off the road DAMHIK :doh

[hlothery]

Interestingly, though I grew up in Brevard, NC, I have never ridden that road. Hope to rectify that in July, when I plan to ride there from San Antonio. I've always liked Ceasar's Head, Highway 276 from Greenville SC to Brevard NC. Great corners, and almost no traffic since 25 was widened from Greenville to Hendersonville. Man......this is making me want to ride! :D

[SHAG]

This is a great road, but it is also starting to get a reputation. Locals call it Thunder Road. Great.

Right at the top, just south of where you can go out onto Wayah Bald, there is a dirt road that cuts off and goes south through the Nanatahala Wilderness. Comes out on US 64... on a road called Rainbow Springs.

Nice little trail if you're heading to the GMR on your GS. :)

Ian

I only see one road off of Wayah. Is it Dicks Creek Road before the lake, then left on Big Choga through Tuni Gap(dirt), Tusquittee Road, comes out at Haysville at 64 & 69 ? 69 turns into 17 in Georgia , then left on 76 to Hiawassee? I don't see Rainbow Springs or Wayah Bald but I'll be down in the area Sunday before the Rally & check it out, Thanks :rocker

[flash412]

"That place is so popular, nobody goes there anymore." - Yogi Berra

Once upon a time, it was a great road. Nowadays, between the squids and the law enforcement, it ain't as much of a treat as it usetawas. There are other roads in the vicinity that are just as good, maybe even better if you think not getting run off the road, not seeing the aftermath of a wreck, and not getting a ticket are all important parts of having a fun day. But I am sure not gonna be the one to say which roads those might be.

[warredon]

I only see one road off of Wayah. Is it Dicks Creek Road before the lake, then left on Big Choga through Tuni Gap(dirt), Tusquittee Road, comes out at Haysville at 64 & 69 ? 69 turns into 17 in Georgia , then left on 76 to Hiawassee? I don't see Rainbow Springs or Wayah Bald but I'll be down in the area Sunday before the Rally & check it out, Thanks :rocker

I think he may be speaking of the forest road that comes out on 64 at Rainbow Springs which is about 12-14 miles west of Franklin close to where 64 crosses the Nantahala river.

[mullerjd1]

I've been to the gap about 10 times and it gets better every time. I can't wait to get back again.

[SCQTT]

Been there a bunch. On bikes & in cars. I think it is too dangerous. Too many people going left of center. I know my ability, but there are lots of people that go that are in way over their head. Probably the best (curvy) public road in the US.

I was lucky enough to ride last fall in southern Taiwan and there are some roads there that will bring tears of joy to your eyes (they just started letting people ride bikes bigger than 125cc there)

Check out www.killboy.com

A group of photographers that blog and sell Dragon photos. (pretty neat to have photos of yourself riding this awesome piece of pavement) Cool photos, but lots of evidence that people go a little nuts there.

If I were in IL and heading south for a ride I would go right instead of left and ride South Central and Southwest Missouri and North Central and Northwest Arkansas. No police and no crowds.

[gezerbike]

We ride down to there every year right after Thanksgiving and have the roads to ourselves......much nicer, but, as others have said, there many other roads that are just as nice or better. But hey, you've got some great roads in southwest Wisconsin and northeastern Iowa that are a blast to ride. For starters, try 39 west out of New Glarus...........

[Visian]

I only see one road off of Wayah. Is it Dicks Creek Road before the lake, then left on Big Choga through Tuni Gap(dirt), Tusquittee Road, comes out at Haysville at 64 & 69 ? 69 turns into 17 in Georgia , then left on 76 to Hiawassee? I don't see Rainbow Springs or Wayah Bald but I'll be down in the area Sunday before the Rally & check it out, Thanks :rocker

None of those... and it appears all the computer maps refer to it as "National Forest Road" (I hate it when they do that.)

On US 64... way up on the high part, west of where Wayah Bald comes in, west of Franklin... you will see a road sign called "Rainbow Springs" (I think, it may be Rainbow Flats... but I am pretty sure it's springs) It heads north and comes out on Wayah Bald Road... north of the road that goes out onto Wayah Bald.

Here are a few caps from MapSource... I sure do wish I got a few waypoint from the last time I was there.

This is the south end of the road, on US 64. Note that it shows Rainbow Springs on the south side of US64. I think this is innaccurate.
http://www.visian.nu/images/rainbow_springs_s.jpg

And this is the north end, on Wayah Bald Road. Note how it shows Rainbow Springs as just a little road... I think the maps are innaccurate.
http://www.visian.nu/images/rainbow_springs_n.jpg

If you come early to the Rally, I may be able to ride out and show you.

Ian

[pedrocasper]

The Dragon is a fantastic road...just avoid weekends (or go to watch). I recommend riding it well within your abilities for the first few trips or have your bike (or a portion thereof) end up on the tree of shame... Note, as of yet, none of my bike parts (or my parts) are on the tree. There are also other great roads around the Dragon. The Deal's Gap area has got to be some of the best "east" coast riding... So much so, that I persuaded my extended family to meet up in Byson City this summer for a family reunion... (none of us are from the area....but it is centrally located from everyone's homes (NY, WI, LA, FL)).... Now...those of us who ride can enjoy the roads of S.C., N.C. and TN.... Also hop on the Smokey Mountain railway for a nice train ride or go rafting down a river....

[SHAG]

If you come early to the Rally, I may be able to ride out and show you.
Ian

I found what you're talking about & some others. Zooming in helps :banghead
Junaluska road goes West to Andrews & I see old Rt64 and some other stuff I'll be checking out :dance

[robsryder]

I've ridden that route (129) several times while returning from the Georgia Mountain Rally. Usually this means early (0730) Sunday morning or Saturday evening around dusk (if I decide to skip the Sat dinner at the GMR). Traffic is usually lighter at those times.

One person suggested riding during the week and I reckon that's a good idea. As far as being a good ride, I think that it is a bit over-hyped. For a sensible rider the main danger is folks (wanna be m/c racers or cars & trucks) coming over into your lane. From what I've observed that sort of lane crossing is a frequent occurrence. I have found it necessary to take evasive action several times.

Insofar as going on a great ride in the same area, try the Cherohala Skyway.
http://www.cherohala.com/

Sometimes, however, you are effectively riding in the clouds and visibility is quite poor. In such conditions it is necessary to go real slow (15 - 20 mph) and follow the yellow line. When it is clear the views are quite impressive. Nice riding also.

A longer route closer to me with many, many curves is Route 555 in southeast Ohio. There may be more interesting roads near you than you know.
http://www.mariettatimes.com/communities/bridges.asp
http://www.motorcycleroads.us/oh.html
http://www.sportbikeroads.com/oh.htm
http://www.angelfire.com/fl/roslewski/goodroads.html
http://www.ridemotorcycle.com/RoadsRestaurants/html/Roads.html

[Tracey]

I'm new to this forum but not to the Dragon...
It's truley a fun ride, I believe another reply offered detailed local info.
Take it! Many great rides in that area that are not nearly as crowded.The resort is top notch and the food is good. While in the area may I suggest a stop at T.W.O., (Two Wheels Only) in Suches (SP?) GA. Another gap adventure waites for you with more good food (wolfs pen gap). It's a great ride between the two that I make at least twice a year.
Highly recommended trip!

[SIBUD]

Last summer I rode the Dragon. Thought I was really cooking along. Took the bags of of Lucy and rode her as fast as I could.

Then, I was passed, on the outside of a curve by a sportbike rider with a girl on the back. :banghead

Guess it only seemed like I was going fast. :laugh :laugh

The Skyway was worth the trip also. Views for miles and miles.

Went on a Thursday. Light traffic. Saw several other BMW's.

[awchesley]

Wow! Da Dragon! My first encounter was in '95 on my frist motorcycle trip to the Smokys. I was on my new R11GSA fully loaded with camping gear. Stumble into Suches, Ga. and TWO. Met Frank, he figured out I was cajun cause of the way they talked and I didn't, and , he drew me a map (which I still have on my bulletin board) of roads to cover. WolfPenGap, ThunderRoad ( hwy 28 if I remem right ). Then around to 129 and the Gap. It was on a Saturday about noonish when I got there. Two Sheriff cars checking tags, licienses, etc. I talked to the guys as they were checking out my paperwork about the country there. They told me to have fun but to watch close for idiots that thought they were on a track.
I made it thru with a super smile on my face. Wow.
Kept heading North and across Tennessee that time.
Been back two times since the last being last summer. But on Wednesday morning on both counts and did multible trips back and forth with hardly any traffic. Been on the Skyway a few times and the BRP for the whole length. Neat. Everyone needs to experience the Dragon at least once.

But, All and All, give me Arkansas on a mild winter weekday with it's smiles and smiles of curves and great roads with hardly any traffic.

'43Andy in SW Louisiana
'00KLR650
'02R1150GSA

[barryg]

Andy, lets keep Arkansas backroads our little secret. ;)

[gfspencer]

Avoid The Dragon on weekends and holidays.

[jerryb]

I understand that the "Tail" is about 12 miles with 312 turns. Before I die, I am going to ride it.

Whom among you has ridden the "Tail" and what was it like?

Is there anything like the "tail" in the Midwest?


Thank you, Ultra

Don't just ride it, find a good observation spot, preferably with a knowing bunch and watch and listen. Hearing them coming is half the fun, it builds anticipation. To me it's better than any road race because you get to compare skill levels. Just when you're thinking you've seen fast someone comes through that drops your jaw (and believe it or not that someone could be on a Gold Wing!).

jerryb

[chilei]

Here is some video of doing it this past Feb. A bit cold but no traffic and great riding!

http://www.chilei.net/DragonTail.wmv

[pedrocasper]

Nice video....I am looking forward to riding the R100 on the Dragon this summer.... However, the video showed lots of yellow line crossing by the rider on the red bike with the passenger....beeeee careful doing that on the weekends. A few years back a friend's friend had his nice Bonnie taken out during the Truimph week by a guy on a sport bike cutting the yellow line....

Here is some video of doing it this past Feb. A bit cold but no traffic and great riding!

http://www.chilei.net/DragonTail.wmv

[emperkin]

I am planning a trip to ride deals gap. What is the best way to get there via Nasville and where are some good places to stay once you are in the area?

Thanks

[jerryb]

I am planning a trip to ride deals gap. What is the best way to get there via Nasville and where are some good places to stay once you are in the area?

Thanks

Iron Horse Campground: Nice people, beautiful facilities, , home cooked meals.
Tent, bunk with linen, or cabin it.

jerryb

[SIBUD]

Great ride except when you come around the corner and find this:

<IMG SRC="http://downloads.c-2.com/photos/1146368055.jpg">

[robsryder]

I am planning a trip to ride deals gap. What is the best way to get there via Nasville ...

"Best" is somewhat subjective. If you have a lot of time, the "best" way in my opinion is to go through Knoxville and continue heading eastward until you hit the Blue Ridge Parkway. The eastward journey to the BRP will show you some interesting roads. Then ride south down the parkway past Asheville and angle towards Robbinsville. Pick-up 129 and head back to Knoxville. You will have done the "dragon" and a whole bunch more.

If short of time, take the super (I-40) to Knoxville from Nashville. Get on 129 South. When you get to the gas station (with all of the motorcycles) that says "Deals Gap" you have ridden the "dragon". Get gas, relax, turn around and do it again. (Repeat as necessary).

[Stuff2C]

Twisties! www.killboy.com

[LTOwner]

The road itself is probably managable by most riders with at least moderate experience. It's the traffic that is the problem. Have ridden it several times, and have had a truck come around a ninety degree curve in front of me taking up both lanes, a sports car coming around a curve spin out, also taking up both lanes, and a crotch rocket pass me on the inside of a curve. Fairly common for opposing traffic to not stay in their lane. Many other very good roads in the area that are much more pleasant, and safer to ride.

[jgbass]

Get the Smoky Mountain Mad Map at www.madmaps.com for a pretty good listing of ammenities in the area, not too mention excellent route maps.

[k12koop]

The road itself is probably managable by most riders with at least moderate experience. It's the traffic that is the problem. Have ridden it several times, and have had a truck come around a ninety degree curve in front of me taking up both lanes, a sports car coming around a curve spin out, also taking up both lanes, and a crotch rocket pass me on the inside of a curve. Fairly common for opposing traffic to not stay in their lane. Many other very good roads in the area that are much more pleasant, and safer to ride.
I would have to disagree with you somewhat. The paper here did a 3 part article on Deals gap. The estimate is that about 5000 people a week visit it. If the road was the horror story you portray in you note we would have had far more than the 3 deaths we had last year. And in two of those deaths the individuals had a single vehicle accident and left the road.

I would agree with you that it can be busy, and there is public traffic on the road especially during peak hours but i would much rather ride deals gap when it is busy than the stretch of Hwy 129 (same road as deals gap) that they call Alcoa Hwy.

It is a great road... just becareful and dont think you will tame the dragon and more than likely you will be fine.

Koop