Tail of the Dragon

The Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of US-129 at Deals Gap on the Tennessee–North Carolina border, famous for its 318 curves. It is the most famous motorcycle road in America and a pilgrimage for sport and touring riders alike.

The road has no intersecting roads or driveways, which made it legendary — and also busy. Photographers line the curves to sell photos of riders, and the "Tree of Shame" at the Deals Gap motorcycle resort displays parts from bikes that did not make it.

Highlights

• The Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort at the North Carolina end
• The Tree of Shame
• Photographers along the curves — look for your shots online the same day
• The Cherohala Skyway, a fast, sweeping road nearby
• The Moonshiner 28 and other roads in the area for a full weekend

Best time to ride

April to October. Weekends in summer and fall are very busy; weekdays are quieter.

The road

Good pavement but constant tight curves, little runoff and frequent oncoming traffic crossing the center line. Law enforcement is active.

Riding tips

• Ride your own pace — the Dragon punishes showing off.
• Stay in your lane: many crashes involve oncoming traffic in blind corners.
• Fuel up beforehand; services at the ends are limited.