Tail of the Dragon
Motorcyclists on the Trail of the Dragon
America’s number one motorcycle and sports car road
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, attracting millions of tourists every year. With breathtaking views of the mountains, waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife, the park offers visitors a glimpse of the natural beauty that this part of the country has to offer. One of the most popular attractions in the park is the Tail of the Dragon ride.
The Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 129 that runs mostly along the southeastern portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a winding and curvy road with banks that make it perfect for navigating the 318 curves it contains. The road is famous among motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts, who love to test their driving skills on this challenging road.
The ride on the Tail of the Dragon starts in Cades Cove on Parsons Branch Road, which is a scenic route through the park. The road meanders through the mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach the Tail of the Dragon, you start to notice the road becoming more and more curvy, with tight turns that require precision driving.
The Little Tennessee River flows along the Tail of the Dragon.
The Little Tennessee River flows along the Tail of the Dragon, adding to the beauty of the ride. As you drive down the road, you can see the river flowing alongside you, with its crystal-clear waters and the mountains rising in the background. The scenery is breathtaking, and you can’t help but feel a sense of awe as you take in the natural beauty of the park.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular starting point for those who want to explore the Tail of the Dragon. It is a bustling town that offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops for visitors. From Gatlinburg, you can take the Newfound Gap Road to reach the park, which is a scenic route that takes you through the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Another popular attraction in the park is Clingmans Dome, which is the highest peak in the park. From the top of Clingmans Dome, you can see panoramic views of the park, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and mountain ranges. The view from the top is simply breathtaking and worth the hike up the mountain.
The “Tree of Shame” at Deals Gap, NC, along the Tail of the Dragon.
The Tail of the Dragon ride takes you through Deals Gap, which is a motorcycle resort that caters to riders who want to take on the challenging road. Deals Gap is also home to the famous “Tree of Shame,” which is a monument to people who have crashed their bikes or cars along the Tail of the Dragon. The tree is covered with car parts and other debris, which dangle from its branches, creating a strange and eerie sight.
Along the way, you will also come across photographers who have set up shop in pull-offs along the road. They take photos of drivers as they navigate the Tail of the Dragon and offer them for sale on their websites. This is a great way to capture your experience on the road and share it with others.
The Tail of the Dragon ride is a thrilling experience that offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the Smoky Mountains in a unique way. Whether you are a motorcycle or sports car enthusiast or just someone who loves to take in the scenery, this road has something for everyone. The road is challenging and requires precision driving, but it is also rewarding, offering stunning views of the park that you won’t find anywhere else.
In conclusion, the Tail of the Dragon ride is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a challenging road that offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors. With its winding curves, stunning scenery, and the famous “Tree of Shame,” the Tail of the Dragon ride is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you leave the