Two Blue Ridge Parkway Attractions at Roanoke, VA

Posted on August 11, 2018 by Wayne Busch

It’s too easy to ride past two great Blue Ridge Parkway attractions at Roanoke – Mill Mountain and Roanoke Mountain. Both are just south of the city and worth a visit. The Park Service roads which lead to them are well marked.

Roanoke Mountain Loop Road at Milepost 120.3 is on the east side of the parkway. The 3.75 mile single lane one-way paved road winds up then down the mountain to reconnect with the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is an overlook at the top of the mountain but the better view is from the Mill Mountain Overlook on the climb up. It takes about 20 minutes to ride it though I always stop at the overlook.

Mill Mountain is home to the famous Roanoke Star which looms above the city. You reach it via the Mill Mountain Parkway at Milepost 120.5. Mill Mountain Parkway is virtually identical to riding the Blue Ridge Parkway, gently curving and climbing to the spur road (Mill Mountain Spur, Prospect Rd SE) that leads to the park at the top. Just walk around the corner from the parking lot and you stand beneath the largest star in the world overlooking the city below.

A zoo, gardens, and visitor center are nearby. It takes about 10 minutes to ride from the parkway to the star. Beyond the spur road, Mill Mountain Parkway becomes JP Fishburn Parkway leading into the city.

Both of these attractions offer better views than you’ll find from the parkway as well as a unique experience.

This area is detailed on America Rides Maps Map #2 – The Roads of Roanoke and Beyond

Wayne Busch – America Rides Maps

Wayne Busch searches out the most entertaining roads in the Blue Ridge Mountains then records them on a series of maps which span the Blue Ridge Mountains.

There are more great motorcycle roads in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains than anywhere else. I highlight the best roads then show you the best ways to connect them together into rides. More than a decade of searching has discovered more than 1000 good roads to enjoy. We continue to search so you may enjoy.

Review the maps, order online here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

Source: America Rides Maps Blog @ Miles-byMotorcycle.com
https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/60608/two-blue-ridge-parkway-attractions-at-roanoke–va–

5 Best Motorcycle Rides in the Smoky Mountains

Posted on March 24, 2018 by Wayne Busch

How do motorcycle riders choose from more than 100 outstanding biker roads in the Smoky Mountains?

America Rides Maps suggests these are the roads to hit first when you visit on your motorcycle tour –

The Blue Ridge Parkway –

Hands down, the Blue Ridge Parkway should be at the top of your list. The best 50 miles of the 469 mile long scenic road are right here and easy to get to. It’s the highest section of the parkway filled with stunning overlooks as it cuts along the tops of the mile high mountains. Ride the section between US 19 (near Maggie Valley) to US 276 (south of Waynesville). Highlights on this stretch include Waterrock Knob, The Highest Point (classic photo with the sign), the Devils Courthouse, Looking Glass Rock, Second Falls at Graveyard Fields, and so many beautiful viewpoints to enjoy. The grades are gentle, the curves are satisfying. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

You can do it in a couple of hours or spend the time to stop and savor the sights. If you want to make a day of it, follow the parkway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and ride across the heart of it on US 441. In the other direction the parkway leads through Asheville then gradually climbs to reach Mt. Mitchell State Park, the highest peak in the east.

More info – https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/53348/the-best-section-of-the-blue-ridge-parkway

The Dragon & Cherohala Skyway –

Located on the west side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, these roads are two of the most popular rides in the Blue Ridge. The legendary Dragon (US 129) draws motorcycle and car enthusiasts to the 13 miles of tight, technical, challenging curves that hug the border of the park. It can get crowded on weekends and while the road has a notorious reputation a casual run is a lot of fun. You’ll see numerous photographers along the route to capture your vacation shots as you pass. Nearly 100 paved pull-offs let you escape the speed demons on your tail or just pause to watch the carnival. It takes about half an hour to run the Dragon.

The Cherohala Skyway is very much like the Blue Ridge Parkway running 50 miles between the small towns at either end. It climbs to the highest ridges as it courses through the vast wilderness of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. There are numerous nice overlooks to appreciate the views. The curves are more sweeping, the grades easy, and it’s rarely anything you’d call crowded. There are some tighter sections of road as you come off the Skyway at the North Carolina end to choose from. At the Tennessee end of the ride, look for tiny River Road to lead you out to Bald River Falls and Baby Falls. Plan a couple hours for this road if you go out to the falls.

To make a day of it a popular loop ride combines both passing the Vonore, TN. In NC, US 129 is an easy ride south to Robbinsville, or NC 28 takes you on an awesome curvy ride when headed east.

More info – https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/52688/ride-the-dragon-and-the-cherohala-skyway—loop-ride

US 64 – The Waterfall Ride –

There are many versions of this ride which is anchored to the section on NC 28 / US 64 between Franklin and Highlands, NC. Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, Quarry Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls are found in the Cullasaja Gorge making this one of the easiest spots to see a lot of falls in a short distance. West of Franklin, Wayah Road climbs over the mountains to the Nantahala Gorge. Upper Nantahala Falls is on the way. Wesser Falls and Nantahala Falls are found in the Gorge. To the east of Highlands, Toxaway Falls is on US 64, Whitewater Falls is just a few miles south. A bit further east you’ll find Birdrock Falls and Mill Shoals Falls on NC 215, and Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock on US 276. There are so many waterfalls you can take a couple days to see all the easy ones.

The linked map (below) shows one way to see a dozen falls in a day on a reasonable length ride. There are many other ways to link the roads and tour the cascades.

More info – https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/52558/the-easy-waterfall-ride

NC 209 – The Rattler –

This easy to access ride on the east side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a gem. The 37 mile run from Junaluska to Hot Springs gives you a little bit of everything in nicely spaced doses. There are gentle valley rides, twisty mountain climbs, pretty scenery, rushing rivers, and historic sights. There are a couple spots to eat in Hot Springs and a spa where you can soak in the natural hot spring waters.

The ride takes about an hour. There is a popular loop that can make it a half day ride passing through Marshall then winding over the mountains to return back to NC 209.

More info – https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/52309/the-classic-rattler-loop-ride

The Copperhead Loop –

This ride has a few versions which are all built off two outstanding roads – US 276 and NC 215. Both of these roads run north to south. The Copperhead Loops are made with roads which run between them. Think triangle, not loop – US 276 and NC 215 meet in Bethel, NC. They then both run south more or less parallel to one another crossing the border into South Carolina.

US 276 is the better known of the two roads. From Bethel, it runs along a valley then makes a dramatic climb to intersect the Blue Ridge Parkway. South of the parkway it descends to Brevard with attractions and waterfalls along the way. It then runs into town then shoots south again passing Connestee Falls into South Carolina. It has engaging curves, nice scenery, one of the most popular waterfalls (Looking Glass Falls) , and can get a bit crowded on weekends as so many flock to the beautiful area around the waterfalls.

NC 215 also leaves Bethel to follow a valley, then begins a gradual and twisty climb. It’s more technical than US 276 and the challenges are more sustained. There’s little if any traffic. There are waterfalls along the way.

Both roads reach their first connection at the Blue Ridge Parkway then drop down the south slopes to reach US 64. US 64 links between Rosman and Brevard, it’s the classic easy connecting route, the “standard” loop. South of US 64, NC 215 becomes US 178. Both it and US 276 continue south into South Carolina to reach the southernmost linking road, SC 11.

More info – https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/53429/best-rides-in-the-blue-ridge—the-copperhead

These roads and many more are catalogued on motorcycle ride maps published by America Rides Maps. Buy them online at http://AmericaRidesMaps.com

Wayne Busch – America Rides Maps

Wayne Busch searches out the most entertaining roads in the Blue Ridge Mountains then records them on a series of maps which span the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Review the maps, order online here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

Source: America Rides Maps Blog @ Miles-by-Motorcycle.com
https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/53524/5-best-motorcycle-rides-in-the-smoky-mountains

Which is the Best Town to Stay In when Riding the Smokies?

Posted on March 22, 2018 by Wayne Busch

There is no “one size fits all” place for motorcycle riders touring in the Smoky Mountains. Each has it’s advantages and disadvantages, strengths and weaknesses depending on what you want to get out of your motorcycle trip.

100 Smoky Mountain Rides Map

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park takes up a huge chunk of real estate on the North Carolina / Tennessee border. Staying within the park means camping, and numerous options present. You’ll find these campgrounds fairly busy and congested though that also means basic facilities are assured and they are in stunningly beautiful settings. It’s nice from a camping standpoint, but you’ll be starting and ending each day on the few park roads as you commute to the surrounding areas cutting into your ride time each day.

US 441 – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Outside the Park – Towns around the park can be divided by compass direction – north, south, east, west. Each of these areas is distinctly different reflected in the towns within.

Tennessee Foothills Scenic Parkway

North of the Park:

Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge – Tourist Mecca. Easy to get to and just half an hour south from Knoxville, these towns are dominated by tourist attractions like Dollywood, Ripley’s, Ober Gatlinburg, the Space Needle, Smoky Mountain Opree, and all kinds of venues geared to kids, families, shopping, nightlife, and the scenic park views. It’s a busy, bustling, and energetic place with loads of places to stay. Riding in this area is comparatively limited and the major roads congested. North of the park the mountains quickly subside into the broad Tennessee River Valley. The riding is to the east and west, look to the lesser traveled valleys and back roads. South takes you into the park.

Townsend – West of the big towns, Townsend stretches along the Little River into the park. It has a large tourism focus but is not as built up. Riding to the east means passing through the big towns, to the south is one entrance to the park. The Tennessee Foothills Parkway takes you west to US 129 on the north side of The Dragon and access to the western rides.

Cosby / Newport – This is pretty rural country except for the main road (US 321) which passes though it. The tourist focus diminishes as you stray north from the park to Newport and it’s more characteristic of the east side of GSMNP. For ADV riders, it sits on the edge of some decent unpaved riding in the Pisgah National Forest.

NC 209 – The Rattler

East of the Park:

Hot Springs – The area on the east side of GSMNP is dominated by the Pisgah National Forest. The mountains continue their arc north from the park to the highest of the peaks still miles distant. This area is rural and undeveloped. The few roads that do run through it are outstanding mountain rides, even Interstate 40 cutting through the Tennessee River Gorge is spectacularly scenic. Small mountain towns dot the landscape, Hot Springs is one of them. The historic town has limited places to stay and eat and a campground on the French Broad River.

Asheville – A vibrant and beautiful small city. The Blue Ridge Parkway passes through it. You’ll find ample places to stay in the surroundings, and the city traffic can be escaped fairly quickly. Known for its food and beer culture, parking is an issue to the point walking is the way to go when downtown. You’ll be paying city prices but also have access to some luxurious and scenic places to stay if that’s your style.

West of the Park:

Deals Gap – Both south and west of the park, Deals Gap sits at the NC end of The Dragon. It’s relatively remote with few lodging options, but if you’re a Dragonista it’s heaven.

Robbinsville – at the crossroads of The Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway, Robbinsville is a small town. There’s one large motel, a few motorcycle centered lodgers, and a handful of restaurants. There’s a nice mix of riding in the surroundings.

Tellico Plains – across the Cherohala Skyway, Tellico Plains is a small town. You find a handful of restaurants, a few lodgers, and camping nearby. The best riding is to the east and south, a loop north takes you to the Dragon.

Blue Ridge Parkway

South of the Park:

Waynesville – The largest town in western North Carolina hosts the best food west of Asheville and a popular downtown. Lodging options are scattered. It’s at the hub of the best riding with great roads in every direction. The are numerous roads leading from town which intersect the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Land of the Waterfalls to the south.

Maggie Valley – On the edge of the park, Maggie Valley has the most places to stay. Like Waynesville, it sits at the epicenter of the best riding and makes an ideal base for a longer stay. Wheels Through Time motorcycle museum is a popular attraction. There are numerous motorcycle events throughout the season. Easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and many great rides are found nearby.

Cherokee – Located at the south end of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee offers ample places to stay and lots of small restaurants. It’s the heart of Cherokee culture with museums and attractions. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino dominates the landscapes on the outskirts of town. There is riding in all directions though the town itself can be congested and busy and many commutes will be on major roads.

Bryson City – Somewhat isolated, Bryson City is a small town with several good places to eat and limited lodging. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is the big tourist draw as is camping at the edge of the park at Deep Creek. Riding is to the east, west, and south.

Stecoah – Barely a town, you’ll find campgrounds and cabins in this area. Few places to eat. It sits on NC 28 leading to Robbinsville and Deals Gap. The best riding is to the west. It’s good location for ADV riders looking to explore the unpaved roads.

Fontana Village – An isolated location, you find the Fontana Village Resort has all you need in one spot. It sits on NC 28 close to the Dragon and rides west. The Fontana Dam is nearby.

Maggie Valley, NC

Which is best?

If your focus is being surrounded by the best roads so you can spend your visit riding, the south side of Great Smoky National Park is best. You’ll find the most options for lodging, eating, and other attractions on the southeast side, more remote and quiet places on the southwest side. No matter which area you stay in, you’ll find more great motorcycle rides in the Smoky Mountain area than anywhere else, enjoy!

Wayne Busch – America Rides Maps

Wayne Busch searches out the most entertaining roads in the Blue Ridge Mountains then records them on a series of maps which span the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Review the maps, order online here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

100 Rides In the Smokies – Full Sized Map
http://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/photos/52000/untitled/52073/100-rides-in-the-smokies—full-sized-map)

Source: America Rides Maps Blog @ Miles-by-Motorcycle.com
https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/53524/5-best-motorcycle-rides-in-the-smoky-mountains

3 Best Motorcycle Rides Near Maggie Valley

Posted on March 20, 2018 by Wayne Busch

Located on the quiet south side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maggie Valley is the hub of the best motorcycle rides in the USA.

More than 100 great motorcycle rides surround the mountain town. It’s home to the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. Numerous rallies and festivals take place throughout the warm season.

Maggie Valley, NC

Here are three of the best motorcycle rides nearby –

1) The Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway –

Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway Map

http://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/rideplans/53345/the-best-of-the-blue-ridge-parkway

2) The Copperhead Loop –

Copperhead Loop Map

http://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/rideplans/53346/the-copperhead-loop

3) The Rattler –

Rattler Loop Map

http://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/rideplans/53347/the-classic-rattler-loop-ride

GPX tracks of these rides can be downloaded from the individual ride plans with a Miles-by-Motorcycle.com subscription

Wayne Busch – America Rides Maps

Wayne Busch searches out the most entertaining roads in the Blue Ridge Mountains then records them on a series of maps which span the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Review the maps, order online here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

These Roads are found on America Rides Maps –

#6 The Best Motorcycle Rides Near Smoky Mountains Park – EAST

12 Classic Deals Gap Motorcycle Rides

100 Great Motorcycle Rides in the Smoky Mountains

The Best Unpaved Roads EAST of Smoky Park

Source: America Rides Maps Blog @ Miles-by-Motorcycle.com
https://miles-by-motorcycle.com/51999/blog/53303/3-best-motorcycle-rides-near-maggie-valley

Dual Sport Ride Map Near the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway

Posted on November 15, 2016 by Wayne Busch

Dual Sport Ride Map Near the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway

The Best Unpaved Motorcycle Roads WEST of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third motorcycle ride map of the unpaved roads and trails from America Rides Maps.

This new map details the great dual sport rides near the Dragon at Deals Gap, North Carolina, along the long stretch of the Cherohala Skyway, and near Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Enjoy the legendary Tail of the Dragon AND take your adventure bike out in the woods on the same day of great motorcycle rides. ADV Riders will love these detailed maps.

This motorcycle ride map features the great motorcycle roads found near the Nantahala Gorge, as well as the great riding off road riding around Franklin, North Carolina. Enjoy roadside waterfalls, mountain top views, and miles and miles of superb unpaved riding.

Discover motorcycle rides in the vast wild and scenic areas of the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests on Forest Roads and accessible trails.

America Rides Maps has also produced dual sport motorcycle ride maps of the great adventure rides east of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the superb roads near the Blue Ridge Parkway south of Smoky Park. They are sold individually and as a 3 map set.

See this new map and the others here –

http://americaridesmaps.com/products/the-best-unpaved-roads-west-of-smoky-park

Motorcycle Loop ride near Floyd, VA

Posted on August 5, 2015 by Wayne Busch

Motorcycle Loop ride near Floyd, VA

Downtown Floyd, VA

This motorcycle loop ride near Floyd, Virginia intersects the Blue Ridge Parkway at two points. You can do either half (north or south of the parkway) or the whole 34.3 miles.

The small and historic town of Floyd, Virginia is located about 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 160 miles into the 469 mile ride. Noted for it’s celebration of local music, the picturesque shops, and a few very good places to eat and stay, Floyd makes a nice layover on your Blue Ridge Parkway motorcycle tour.

Southern Virginia Countryside

This motorcycle loop ride gives you a nice taste of the variety of great roads found in the southern Virginia region which surround the town of Floyd. Rolling hills, pastoral farms, lazy rivers and streams predominate the landscape. You’ll find both relaxed cruising, tight and twisty climbs, and tiny little back roads sneaking through the hills. It’s an opportunity to slip into town and refuel your bike and belly, or make a spicy diversion off the relaxed riding of the park road.

Shooting Creek Road

Directions (clockwise):

Starting in downtown Floyd where VA 8 and US 221 cross, follow US 221 north 2.5 miles to reach Shooting Creek Road (VA 860).

Shooting Creek Road is a tiny back road which leads out through the farmland then into the woods as it traces along the waterway. If you watch for unpaved VA 690 at a sharp curve, you’ll see the Pine Creek Mill, a nice stop for a photo.

Pine Creek Mill

Shooting Creek Road crosses Franklin Pike then continues south to reach the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is poorly marked at the parkway. Cross the park road and continue south to reach VA 40.

VA 40 has both easy cruising and some very tight curves as it takes you east to Woolwine to meet VA 8.

VA 8 will take you north climbing to reach the Blue Ridge Parkway at Tuggles Gap. You’ll find both easy cruising and some exciting hairpins are you reach the crest. Pass under the parkway and continue back into Floyd.

Click for full size

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Wayne Busch

– Wayne Busch lives in Waynesville, NC, where he produces the most detailed, comprehensive, up-to-date motorcycle pocket maps of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains to help you get the most of your vacation experience. See them here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

Smoky Mountain Waterfalls Motorcycle Ride

Posted on April 19, 2015 by Wayne Busch

Tour more than 1 dozen roadside waterfalls on this long and scenic day ride.

Smoky Mountains Waterfalls Motorcycle Ride – click for large view

Overview:

Start in Maggie Valley. Follow US 19 west to 441 at Cherokee. Soco Falls on route. Follow US 441 south to Franklin, then US 64 / NC 28 to Highlands. 4 falls along road. Highlands to Cashiers on US 64, then loop south on 107 / 281 to see 2 more. Continue east on US 64, detour south of Brevard then onto US 276 to the Blue Ridge Parkway (3 more) Ride the Parkway to NC 215 then follow it back to US 276 and into Maggie Valley.

Roadside waterfalls abound for the motorcycle rider

Discover the hidden secrets on your motorcycle travels in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains

Detailed Route:

Distance: 190 miles.

Time: All day ride.

Easy to moderate difficulty

Before you go:

Exercise caution! – These are roadside waterfalls, some which are on busy roads with blind curves and limited pull-outs. Pull out with confidence and vigor.

Look but don’t touch – Dangerous conditions lurk around waterfalls. Visitors are killed every year. Very slippery rocks. Powerful currents. Deadly drops.

Plan on more time – Several waterfalls require short walks to get the views. Allow time for multiple stops and photos.

Route:

Easy to find Bubbling Springs Branch is on a sharp curve where it flows under NC 215.

Start in Maggie Valley. Follow US 19 west.

4.1 mi Pass under Blue Ridge Parkway

5.7 mi – Soco Falls. Gravel pull off on left with small signs. Downhill section of road on a curve. Can’t be seen from road. Path and boardwalk lead to 2 converging waterfalls.

15.2 mi Turn left @ traffic light at casino for shortcut to US 441 south. Junction US 19 and Casino Road.

16 mi Turn left @ traffic light onto US 441 south. Junction Casino Road and US 441.

20.1 mi Follow highway 23/74 east. Junction US 441 and highway 23/74 exit 74.

27.3 mi Follow US 441 south. Junction US 441 and highway 23/74 exit 81..

45.3 mi Exit US 441, follow US 64 / NC 28 east. Junction US 441 and US 64 / NC 28 at Franklin.

54.4 mi – Cullasaja Falls. Visible from road on right. Limited and hazardous parking near guardrail on sharp curve.

57.3 mi – Quarry Falls – Visible from road on right. Long paved pulloff on right side of road.

58.2 mi – Dry Falls – Not visible from road. Paved parking on right with signs. Short trail to waterfall. Path continues behind waterfall.

60.8 mi – Bridal Veil Falls – Visible from road on left. Paved pull off. Drive behind the waterfall for a photo.

Motorcycles at Cullasaja Falls in North Carolina's "Land of the Waterfalls"

With permission granted, I stand ready to help you have the ride of your life! Just say YES!

63.5 mi Turn left @ traffic light to continue on US 64. Junction US 64 and NC 28 downtown Highlands.

73.7 mi Turn right @ traffic light onto NC 107 south. Junction US 64 and NC 107 in Cashiers.

77.1 mi – Silver Run Falls – Not visible from road. Poorly marked gravel pull off on left. Trail leads into woods. 1/4 mile walk.

83 mi Turn left onto Wiginton Scenic Byway. Junction Wiginton Scenic Byway and NC 107.

85.2 mi Turn left @ stop sign to head north on NC 281 (Whitewater Falls Road). Junction Wiginton Scenic Byway and NC 281.

87.6 mi – Whitewater Falls State Park. Not visible from road. $2 fee. 1/4 mile paved walk. Highest waterfall in the east.

94.9 mi Turn right @ stop sign to continue east on US 64. Junction NC 281 and US 64.

97.1 – Toxaway Falls – Not visible from road. Road crosses dam with waterfall below. Difficult to get a good view. Park at Toxaway Village or along road on dam.

105 mi Turn right @ junction US 64 and US 178 at Rosman.

106 mi Turn right @ traffic light in Rosman, exit town.

107 mi Turn left onto East Fork Road. Junction US 178 (Pickins Highway) and East Fork Road.

110 mi Turn right @ stop sign to keep on East Fork Road. Junction East Fork Road and Walnut Hollow Road.

119 mi Turn left @ stop sign to go north on US 276 (Greenville Highway). Junction East Fork Road and US 276.

120 mi – Connestee Falls – Not visible from road. Large sign, trailhead at end of parking lot. Short walk to overlook where 2 waterfalls converge.

126 mi Turn right @ traffic light in Brevard onto US 64. Junction US 276 and US 64.

129 mi Turn left @ traffic light onto US 276 north. Junction US 64 / US 276 / NC 280.

135 mi – Looking Glass Falls – Visible from road. Large paved parking along road on right. Boardwalk to base of falls.

Whitewater Falls, one of the highest in the east.

137 mi – Sliding Rock – Not visible from road. Fee area $2. Paved parking lot. Bathers slide down waterfall.

144 mi Turn right onto parkway ramp. Turn left at the stop sign to head south (towards Cherokee) on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Junction US 276 and Blue Ridge Parkway.

148.5 mi – Graveyard Fields – Not visible from road. 1/3 mile paved walk to top of Second Falls. Trails continue to 2 others.

156 mi Exit Parkway. Turn left (towards Canton) on NC 215. Junction Blue Ridge Parkway and NC 215.

158 mi – Flat Laurel Creek – Visible from road. Hard to find. Look for 3rd gravel pull out on right on the only straight section of road.

160 mi – Bubbling Springs Branch – Visible from road on left. River plunges beneath the roadway on a hairpin curve. Small unpaved parking are just beyond.

174 mi Turn left @ stop sign to follow US 276 into Waynesville.. Junction NC 215 / US 276.

180 mi Turn right @ traffic light in Waynesvile.. Pass through town.

Junction US 276 and Main Street.

181mi Turn left @ traffic light. Junction Main Street and US 276 (Russ Avenue).

183 mi Turn left @ traffic light to return to Maggie Valley. Junction US 276 and US 19.

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Wayne Busch

Motorcycle Loop Ride near Hot Springs, NC

Posted on February 18, 2015 by Wayne Busch

French Broad River

The small historic town of Hot Springs, NC, has long been a familiar pit stop for mountain area motorcycle riders. It is situated north and west of Asheville near the border with Tennessee on the banks of the French Broad River. The town is popular with rafters and hikers, has couple biker friendly places to eat, and there are natural hot springs to soak in at the spa.

Hot Springs, NC

Motorcycle riders are attracted to this area for the wonderful and tricky two lane back roads which thread through the surrounding mountains. The newfound popularity of NC 209 a.k.a. “The Rattler” as one of the top 10 motorcycle rides in the Blue Ridge Mountains is bringing more motorcycle touring enthusiasts to discover this playground of nice biker roads.

The map shows a motorcycle loop ride that takes you across the border to Flag Pond, TN., then loops you back to Hot Springs.

Leaving Hot Springs, go east on US 25 / 70 making the gentle climb then descent to the junction with NC 208 at Hurricane.
Turn north (left) and follow NC 208 along the winding river. As you come to the junction of NC 208 and NC 212 note the small bridge over the creek. Guntertown Road is on the right just before the bridge, NC 212 is at the stop sign once you cross the bridge.
The north leg ( NC 212 / TN 352 ) of the triangle shaped motorcycle ride is a pretty nice cruise following along creeks and streams for the most part with a few tricky curves thrown in to keep you on your toes.
The east leg ( TN 23 / US 23 ) is pretty relaxed riding, there are a couple passing zones on the long inclines. You’ll want to keep an eye out for the turn onto Big Laurel Road, then hold on for the wild ride back.
Big Laurel Road is the south leg of the loop and full of tricky curves. Be alert for scattered debris in a couple of the hairpins around bluff faces. Walnut Creek Road spurs off to the south, be sure you veer in the correct direction when you reach this junction to remain on Big Laurel Road.
Guntertown Road leads you east to the small bridge on NC 208. Retrace your path to return to Hot Springs.

Big Laurel Road

The roads in this area can be extremely challenging and tight. If you prefer an easier course, the ride to Flag Pond on NC 212 / TN 352 can be done out-and-back. There is a large pull off riders use for a break at the junction of TN 352 & TN 23.

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Wayne Busch

Motorcycle Friendly – Still Mountain Restaurant, Hot Springs, NC

Posted on May 12, 2014 by Wayne Busch

Motorcycle Friendly – Still Mountain Restaurant, Hot Springs, NC

UPDATE – This Restaurant has closed.

On a classic “lunch run” ride here’s one option for the lunch stop.

Motorcycle friendly Still Mountain Restaurant, Hot Springs, NC.

One of the nicest motorcycle rides you’ll do in the Smoky Mountain area of North Carolina and Tennessee is NC 209, a.k.a “The Rattler”. This 30+ mile ride through the mountains and valleys of North Carolina runs from Junaluska (Maggie Valley, Waynesville) to Hot Springs. Scenic, challenging, historic, it makes for a nice “lunch run” as an out-and-back ride or the first leg of numerous loop rides you can build with other great connecting roads.

Motorcycle Friendly Still Mountain Restaurant – you can’t miss it in tiny Hot Springs.

Hot Springs is one of the many historic little mountain towns that dot the landscape. Once an important stop on the Knoxville, TN to Asheville, NC corridor, it is mostly forgotten now that the Interstate bypasses it to the west. It’s a pass-through town on the Appalachian Trail, a popular place for whitewater rafting, and there are natural hot springs where you can go soak your keister for a few bucks. On weekends, it’s a gathering spot for the bikers who flock to ride the outstanding motorcycle roads in the surrounding region.

Motorcycle Friendly Still Mountain Restaurant – a big comfortable porch, tasty food, and live music on this day.

Comfortable, easy to find, and with tasty food, the Still Mountain Restaurant is usually full of bikers though the occasional Appalachian Trail hiker drops in for some civilized fare on their 1500 mile walk in the wilds. You’ll feel right at home here.

Biker Friendly Still Mountain Restaurant – Thumbs up!

You’ll find NC 209 and another 50+ great rides in the area on America Rides Motorcycle Pocket maps #6 as well as the 100 Great Motorcycle Rides in the Smoky Mountains.

Great Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – NC 209, a.k.a. “The Rattler”. Do it as an out-and-back or make a nice loop ride – one of many ways to go on this great biker road

More Rattler info here

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Wayne Busch

– Wayne Busch lives in Waynesville, NC, where he produces the most detailed and comprehensive and up-to-date motorcycle pocket maps of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains to help you get the most of your vacation experience. See them here – AmericaRidesMaps.com

Motorcycle Riding the Blue Ridge Parkway – Commuter Zones

Posted on February 5, 2014 by Wayne Busch

You have no clue you’re passing through some sizable cities on a Blue Ridge Parkway ride – 10 minutes ride from a parkway exit puts you in the heart of Asheville, NC, a fun place to visit!

On a 469 mile long Blue Ridge Parkway ride you will pass through two cities – Roanoke in Virginia, and Asheville in North Carolina. Each has its “commuter zone”.

In both cities, the parkway weaves along the east edge of town then curves around to the south, though barely a hint of the surrounding neighborhoods are visible. Riding along you never see a downtown area at all nor any indication you are near a sizable city. It’s part of the magical illusion of a Blue Ridge Parkway ride. The views have been well protected over the years.

What’s a Commuter Zone?

There will be a handful of exits relatively close together as you pass through one of the cities on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For locals, the Blue Ridge Parkway is just one more road to get through town, a shortcut. A lot of local traffic hops on it to save time and zip an exit or two to the road they want.

This sign is a legacy to when gas was available on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It should now read “No gas next 400 miles”. There is no gas on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take advantage of close gas stations to the parkway in the commuter zones.

What you need to know about Parkway Commuter Zones –

Expect more traffic and more aggressive traffic in the commuter zones on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Locals are hopping on the parkway to save time and they may push the speed limit.

The speed limit drops in some areas and it’s more heavily enforced in the commuter zones. The Asheville commuter zone of the Blue Ridge Parkway went to 35 mph last year to try to slow down the local traffic. Watch for the signs.

Enforcement is heavier near cities, especially in commuter zones. More traffic means more resources assigned to deal with it. Watch your speed whenever you feel you are getting into a populated area. You can also expect more attention near popular areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Watch your speed and be alert in the commuter zones

Here are some places where I tell myself to roll back on the throttle when riding the Blue Ridge Parkway:

From the Start of the Parkway in Virginia to Humpback Rocks
Peaks of Otter area in Virginia, near Buchanan
From 221 exit to 221 exit near Roanoke
Linn Cove Viaduct area near Blowing Rock
Moses Cone / Julian Prince Park near Boone
Altapass Hwy north of Spruce Pine / Little Switzerland
Crabtree Falls area
From Craggy Gardens through Asheville
The southern section of the parkway into Cherokee

Be aware of and alert for these commuter zones near the cities along the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are few signs on the road, but if you see any indication you are approaching a congested area be alert and ready to deal with increased traffic with a different agenda than you.

7 map Blue Ridge Parkway + The Dragon set

Get the maps!
http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-The-Dragon-Package-BRP12.htm

If you enjoy photos of motorcycle riding in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, like MY BLUE RIDGE MOTORCYCLING FACEBOOK PAGE.

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Wayne Busch

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Smoky Mountain Motorcycle Rider

The Best Motorcycle Rides in the Mountains

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Motorcycle Riding the Blue Ridge Parkway – Commuter Zones

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