Overview:
- Deals Gap, NC
- US 129 to Chilhowee
- US 129 has 318 curves in 11 miles.
- 19 Miles – Approx 40 Min
- https://tailofthedragon.com
Description:
The “Tail of the Dragon” is a well-known ride in the Great Smoky Mountains. This road has no intersecting roads or driveways to impact your concentration during the 318 curves it is known for. It is considered “the destination” for thousands of motorcyclists and sports car fans looking for a challenging trip throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Caution is the key as the turns are tight but after riding it, will be listed as one of your “rides of your life.”
This is a very exciting ride and is well worth the trip. This road starts at Deals Gap, NC and runs along US 129 for 20 miles. This road is infamous for its twists and turns. There are many hairpin turns and some gentler turns. It is definitely not for the faint of heart.
The ride starts at Deals Gap, which does have a place to stay, but it is around an hour away from Cherokee, NC which is a good area to stay and venture to many other rides in the smokey mountains.
At the start of the ride at Deals gap, there are souvenir stores and food that people congregate at.
The road then moves north, and the twists and turns start within ½ mile. The route goes along the Cheoah lake valley and has lots of fun curves. The “official” turn count is 318.
The road can have lots of riders, especially during holiday times (Memorial Day and Labor day), so do some research to plan your timing. We rode this after the labor day weekend and there were several riders, but according to the locals, nowhere near the volume at Labor Day weekend.
The route ends at the US 129 Harley Davidson store.
Road Conditions:
US 129 is a well-maintained road especially due to its notoriety and number of visitors. There are no issues with the road.
