Tail of the dragon
The Tail of the Dragon (often just called “The Dragon”) is a famous stretch of U.S. Route 129 at Deals Gap on the Tennessee–North Carolina border, near the Great Smoky Mountains. It's legendary among motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts because it packs 318 curves into just 11 miles.
Key facts:
- Located between the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest.
- Known for its extremely tight turns and elevation changes.
- There are no major intersections along the famous 11-mile section, making it a pure driving/riding road.
- The speed limit is generally 30 mph, and the route is considered challenging even for experienced drivers.
- It's a popular destination for photography, motorcycle rallies, sports-car events, and scenic mountain touring.
The road is beautiful but also dangerous. Accidents are common because riders and drivers sometimes overestimate their skill or cross the centerline in blind corners. Local authorities and enthusiast groups strongly emphasize staying within your lane and treating it as a public road, not a racetrack.
Anyone who completes the entire trip will get this patch for free.
The Cherohala Loop is one of the best motorcycle rides in the eastern United States. It's not a single road, but a loop that combines the Cherohala Skyway with other famous roads around the Smokies.
The name "Cherohala" comes from Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and Hala (Nantahala) National Forest in North Carolina.
Why Riders Love It
Cherohala Skyway
- 43 miles long
- Elevations over 5,400 feet
- Long sweepers instead of tight turns
- Incredible mountain views
- Less traffic
- Smooth pavement
Many experienced riders say:
The Dragon is where you test your skills.
The Cherohala is where you enjoy the ride.
Anyone who completes the entire trip will get this patch for free.