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.

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

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

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 Touring – Towns Near Great Smoky Mountains Park

Posted on January 17, 2014 by Wayne Busch

Enjoying an overlook on Newfound Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Choose the right place to stay on your Smoky Mountain motorcycle trip

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the #1 visited park in the nation. Needless to say there are plenty of places to stay in the surrounding area when you come. Those who make the trek by motorcycle not only enjoy the wonders of the park, but are rewarded with some of the most challenging and scenic motorcycle rides in the country at it’s borders.

Bullseye on the best place to stay

I previously looked for the epicenter of great motorcycle riding, the central point in the middle of all the best motorcycle rides in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The prime location was Maggie Valley, NC on the southeast edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with Waynesville and Cherokee close runners up. I listed the pros and cons of using each as a base camp for your motorcycle trip. (read about it here)

Truth is, there are so many great motorcycle rides to choose from in this mountainous region you’ll never get to them all. While being at the strategic center of all the riding offers more riding choices and opportunities, it’s worth looking at some of these other places which lay on the borders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Towns which ring Great Smoky Mountains National Park and classic motorcycle rides nearby.

♦♦♦♦ Maggie Valley / Waynesville – located right in the heart of the best motorcycle rides. Waynesville has great food, but few rooms. Maggie Valley has lots of rooms, places to eat, and the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. (previously covered, read about it here).

♦♦♦ Cherokee – It’s where the Blue Ridge Parkway meets great Smoky Mountains National Park. Culture, casino, and crowds. (previously covered, read about it here)

Photo - Great Smoky Mountains Railway Train

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad train in Bryson City

♦♦ Bryson City – Places to stay, camping, good food and drink, the railroad, at first glance Bryson City has a lot to offer. It’s downfall is it’s isolation. It’s located adjacent to 4 lane US 74. It has a nice little downtown where US 19 comes in from Cherokee. Your choices to quickly hop on a good ride without hitting the 4 lane are limited.

– If you’re looking for a nice quiet place to camp on a swimming creek and do a little riding, Bryson City will do you well.

♦♦ Stecoah – Stecoah is a small spot located off NC 28 not far from Fontana Lake. There are cabins available here, though it’s a really popular spot for campers. There are a couple motorcycle campgrounds. NC 28 leads to The Dragon at Deals Gap or you can cut through to Robbinsville and the Cherohala Skyway. There’s a roadside diner. It’s a pretty remote spot so you’ll have to be self-sufficient, the campgrounds have some supplies. The nearest grocery is in Robbinsville, it’s dry county. The Nantahala Gorge is close, the good section of NC 28 starts just a few miles up the road.

– Stay in Stecoah if you’re looking for motorcycle campgrounds near the Dragon.

Cabins, rooms, camping, meals, Fontana is remote but has all you need.

♦♦♦ Fontana – Fontana is a good option near The Dragon on NC 28. You ‘ll find camping, cabins, there’s are a decent number of rooms, good meals, a bar, all the comforts. The stretch of NC 28 that it sits on is one of my favorite rides curvy motorcycle rides. You’re only minutes from The Dragon.

– Fontana will serve you well if you want a remote location with all the amenities. Close to the Dragon.

♦♦♦ Robbinsville – There’s nothing but mountains and trees west of Robbinsville and well into Tennessee. The small town sits at the hub of several important roads. US 129 leads north to The Dragon, south to the Nanathala Gorge. The Cherohala Skyway meets it here just north of downtown, NC 143 takes you over the mountain to connect with NC 28. All the good biker roads lead here.

While the town of Robbinsville is small, it’s the biggest small town for miles. There’s a grocery store, a few restaurants, gas station / fast food, one big central chain motel, and lots of biker friendly options and businesses in the town. There are a couple good places to eat. It’s not a convenient town for walking. There’s no booze here, it’s dry. Motorcycle rentals in town.

– Robbinsville is the largest town in the area so it has the most to offer. It’s a good base when you want to travel light. Great rides in every direction.

Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort

♦♦ Deals Gap – Resorts, lodges, cabins, campgrounds are all available but limited. If you want to be as close to The Dragon as possible you’ll be pretty isolated from civilization. This is where you want to stay if you’ve come to focus on riding The Dragon. Do a couple runs through in the morning then head down to the Cherohala Skyway or cruise the lake on NC 28. Get in another run or two through The Dragon in the evening.

– If you want to get the full Dragon experience, stay at Deals Gap. There may be entertainment, night races in the parking lot.

♦ Punkin Center – Located at the Tennessee end of The Dragon where TN 72 intersects, it’s an ideal spot for riding The Dragon / Cherohala Skyway loop ride. There is a popular motorcycle campground here, a restaurant, and a repair shop.

– If you’re looking for a motorcycle campground on the north side of the park, this one puts you on some of the best roads.

♦ Townsend – Townsend gets you away from the congestion of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, but you’re still on a pretty major road. It get’s you close to Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Townsend is a good choice if you want to ride The Dragon, The Cherohala Skyway, and poke around the park. It’s a popular base camp for dual-sport riders doing the unpaved roads in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Motorcycle rentals available in town.

– Townsend is a good base camp for dual sport riding.

Tourist attractions in Gatlinburg.

♦♦ Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge

The primary attraction of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is they are so easy to get to. The primary downfall of Galtinburg / Pigeon Forge is everybody goes there.

There’s about 40 miles between the north entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the city of Knoxville, so this corridor has developed into a tourist vortex. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge host all kinds of attractions. There are lots of bargains on rooms and cabins. The downfall here is the tourist traffic and the scarcity of good motorcycle rides. The mountains quickly become valleys outside the park.

There may be some compelling reasons to stay in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, but you’ll likely spend time riding around the park to get to some of the best rides.

– Stay in Gatlinburg if you’re looking for a deal or want a tourist expereince. Accept the traffic, enjoy the attractions, and learn the backroads that will get you through it all.

♦ Cosby – Cosby is at the “forgotten” eastern end of the park. You’ll find lots of campgrounds along the edge of the park, a couple motels near I-40, little else of note. This area is popular for the unpaved riding both in the park and out into the national forests.

– Cosby is a good base camp for dual sport riding.

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You can get a map of more than 100 Great Motorcycle Rides near the Smoky Mountains that will show you where the roads are hiding and how they link together into endless wonderful wanderings through the mountains.

Click Here Now
to see more about the map

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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Stay Near the Best Mountain Motorcycle Rides

Posted on January 15, 2014 by Wayne Busch

Stay Near the Best Mountain Motorcycle Rides –

Great Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – NC 209, a.k.a. “The Rattler” – This is some of the best motorcycle riding you’ll find in the world. These riders are looping back to NC 209 on NC 63.

So you’ve heard about the amazing motorcycle riding in the Blue Ridge Mountains and you want to come see the best of it it.

Where should you stay to have the best opportunity to ride the greatest number of classic motorcycle rides?

To figure out where the geographic center of the best motorcycle riding was, I first looked at where all the classic roads were, roads that have been around long enough to have names like “The Dragon”, the “Moonshiner” and “The Gauntlet”. Some of these might be on your bucket list so it’s nice to have them close. I determined the center point between them.

Map of Classic Motorcycle Rides in the Smoky Mountains

Surround yourself with classic rides.

Next I moved a large circle around the center point of the classic rides to figure out when it contained the most good motorcycle rides overall. I made rings at 10 mile intervals, made a few adjustments, and came up with the answer;

Bullseye on the best place to stay

The target falls on Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Cherokee.

Geographically, Maggie Valley sits at the hub of it all, but any of the towns along the south side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is going to put you near some outstanding riding.

Here are some pros and cons to help you sort out which of the three places works best for you;

Maggie Valley

View heading down from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Soco Gap on US 19 towards Maggie Valley.

Maggie Valley Pros –

There are lots of motel rooms, cabins, and campgrounds in the one road town, it caters well to the motorcycle visitor.
The best section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is just 10 minutes up the road.
The are several good places to eat.
Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum is there.
The small town hosts several biker events each year, including spring and fall rallies.
The town is spread along a 4 lane stretch of US 19 with high mountains on looming on every horizon, you really feel like you’re in the mountains.
There are liquor stores in town.

Maggie Valley Cons –

15 min ride to Waynesville for groceries.
If you stay close to the middle of town you can walk to some of the restaurants and pubs, but the town is long and narrow so you’ll probably hop on the bike.

Waynesville

Main Street, downtown Waynesville

Waynesville Pros –

known for it’s good food and picturesque downtown and atmosphere.
There are mountains on every horizon.
US 276 leaves from the south end of town and leads to some great rides and the Blue Ridge Parkway

Waynesville Cons –

There’s only one motel in the downtown and a couple B&B’s where you can walk to the restaurants, pubs, and stores and galleries.
I usually tell visitors – eat in Waynesville, sleep in Maggie Valley unless you can snag one of the few rooms available in town.

Cherokee

One of the many painted bears in Cherokee

Cherokee pros –

Strategically located at the south end of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the south entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee is obviously worth consideration.
There are lots of motels and campgrounds. No outstanding restaurants come to mind, though I don’t pass through Cherokee often.

Cherokee cons –

Because Cherokee is a hub of tourist activity it is often congested with traffic. The roads leading in to it are busy, there are few of them, and you’ll end up on riding 4 lane roads like US 441 and US 74 more often.
You’re on the Cherokee Reservation, if you want drinks you’ll need to go to Harrah’s Casino.

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Click Here Now
to see more about the map

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 Spring Road Report April 2013

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Wayne Busch

Smoky Mountain Motorcycle Spring Road Report April 2013 – Current conditions for motorcycle touring and Blue Ridge Parkway riders;

Roads affected:

Blue Ridge Parkway
US 441 through Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cherohala Skyway
Fires Creek Road near Hayesville, NC
US 276 / NC 215 south of Waynesville, NC
US 70 / 25 north of Hot Springs, NC
NC 28 north of Franklin
NC 197 near Bakersville

Spring on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway – One by one the incidents of road damage sustained over the winter are being or have been repaired. One significant situation remains – the closure of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Mt. Mitchell. Most recent reports indicate it will be resolved mid-May.

The observation tower atop Mt. Mitchell is worth the trip, but you have to approach from the north until the road is fixed. Pick a sunny clear day.

A section of the Blue Ridge Parkway on this long high lonely stretch of road has been subsiding and slipping down the mountainside for several years. Frequent riders will remember the noticeable dip in the road just south of the entrance to Mt. Mitchell State Park at NC 128. A slide occurred here several years back, it was important to address this situation before another took out the pavement again.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge on the Blue Ridge Parkway will reopen soon.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge north of Roanoke is currently closed, though a new concessionaire has taken the contract and it is expected to open soon. Bluffs Lodge at Doughton Park in NC will remain closed this season, looks like the campground will be open. The Pisgah Inn opened early south of Asheville. Crabtree Falls visitor center is closed this year.

For a detailed list of Parkway facilities and schedule go here – http://www.nps.gov/blri/parknews/blue-ridge-parkway-releases-2013-season-opening-schedule.htm

Download a free printable detour map here – http://smokymountainrider.com/Downloads/parkway-closure-2013.pdf

US 441 through Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Open

The newly repaired section of US 441 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Work to repair a landslide on the North Carolina side of the only paved road crossing the park was completed a month ahead of schedule. The remained of the road is open though a few of the roadside attractions like Chimney Tops are closed. Several of the unpaved roads in the park may not open this year due to cutbacks including Heintooga Ridge Road and Balsam Mountain Road.

View of the slide damage below the repairs.

Cherohala Skyway – one lane closed, work continues

Work at the landslide on the Cherohala Skyway is progressing well.

Work on the landslide on the Cherohala Skyway is progressing well. Located on the North Carolina side close to the state line, one lane is closed with traffic regulated through the construction zone with temporary traffic lights and a short delay. Expect to encounter trucks hauling fill on the North Carolina side of the ride. You’ll find a little gravel on the road near the detour, but it is generally clean and in great condition.

You will run into trucks hailing fill on the North Carolina side of the slide.

Fires Creek Road – closed for bridge work

A little known road north of Hayesville, NC, and one of my personal favorites to get away from the congestion on US 64, the road is closed for bridge work through October. Such a nice ride. If I scout a better detour, will post.

NC 215 / US 276 – conditions

These two classic roads south of Waynesville / Maggie Valley both intersect the Blue Ridge Parkway at their midpoints. Each was repaved last year and are very popular rides.

Great Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – Pisgah Triangles – US 276 junction with the Blue Ridge Parkway. As both NC 215 and US 276 connect, you can always hop up and take a quick break with the best of views.

US 276 got a decent paving job and is in good condition. Be wary of gravel in the tight turns on the steep section climbing to reach the Blue Ridge Parkway on the north side. The roadsides were lined with fresh gravel, and it gets kicked into the road by cars and trucks on some of the sharpest curves. Not bad, but be alert.

NC 215 got a “tar and chip” coating which leveled and filled the potholes and cracks, but the surface remains loose in the higher sections. It has improved significantly over the winter. Still watching this road closely as there has been paving equipment parked on the roadside for a few weeks now. A top coat of new asphalt would make this road so much nicer, it could be the destination ride of the season. Will continue to monitor closely and keep my fingers crossed.

The higher you go the better it gets on NC 215. The road crests where it meets the Blue Ridge Parkway, then plunges down the other side of the gap.

US 70 / 25 north of Hot Springs, NC

They don’t make ’em like that anymore! Look at that beautiful 1928 architecture. Detour via Fugate Road. The best thing about the detour is you get to see the bridge!

The bridge across the French Broad River will remain closed this year at the state line between North Carolina and Tennessee. This section of road connects Hot Springs, NC to Newport, TN. Use Fugate road as a detour. More info / photos here – http://smokymountainrider.com/?p=4239

NC 28 north of Franklin, NC –

One lane closed, sometimes short delays until May 1 as road is widened in this section north of town.

NC 197 near Bakersville, NC –

Bridge replacement through June 30. Detour marked.

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Wayne Busch

Learn Total Control

Wayne is an advanced motorcycle instructor for Total Rider Tech teaching Lee Parks Total Control Advanced Rider Courses. Isn’t it time you looked into advanced rider training to ride more confidently and safely? It can transform your mountain riding experience. Total Rider Tech

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Best Motorcycle Rides – A Mt. Mitchell Loop Ride

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Wayne Busch

The observation tower atop Mt. Mitchell. Pick a sunny clear day. Clouds will hang on the peak.

Best Motorcycle Rides – A Mt. Mitchell Loop Ride

A lot of bikers ask about riding to the highest mountain east of the Mississippi. This loop will spice up the ride with a fun run by Chimney Rock.

Who wouldn’t want to ride their motorcycle to the peak of the highest mountain in the eastern United States? At 6,684 feet, the views from the top are worth the trip, as is the enjoyable ride to get there. Located on NC 128, a spur road off a remote section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s just a short walk to reach the observation tower the crowns the crest.

Blue Ridge Parkway – Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is a popular rest stop north of Asheville with nice views.

While a ride up this section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is a satisfying experience, why not kill two birds with one stone and come back on a different route? For those looking for a more challenging ride than the park road, this loop will give you some classic curves and outstanding scenery. You’ll pass through dramatic Hickory Nut Gorge, home to beautiful Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, and wind your way home through some of the nicest curves in the Pisgah Forest.

While there are some challenging sections, this is a great route for cruisers as most of it is pretty laid back and you can take your time.

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Great Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – Pisgah Triangles – Looking Glass Falls on US 276 is one of the most visited roadside waterfalls in North Carolina

Distance: 205+ miles with side trips

Duration: All day ride

Difficulty: Easy to moderate ride

Before you go:

Fill up first – Long stretches with no gas stations.

Watch the weather – High elevations will have the most extremes. Bring extra clothing. Pick a nice day to visit Mt. Mitchell, the clouds will come in here first.

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Turn-by-turn route:

Start in Waynesville. Follow US 276 to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

6.3 mi Traffic light in Bethel. Last chance to fill up before the long ride.

20.8 mi Turn left @ junction US 276 and ramp to Blue Ridge Parkway.

21 mi Turn right @ stop sign onto Blue Ridge Parkway (towards Asheville).

77.1 mi Turn left @ junction Blue Ridge Parkway and NC 128. Follow to top of Mt. Mitchell – 4.8 mi one way.

88.3 mi Exit and follow ramp to NC 80. Blue Ridge Parkway exit at NC 80.

The Blue Ridge Parkway section north of Asheville

88.4 mi Turn right @ stop sign. Junction ramp and NC 80.

100 mi Turn right @ traffic light. Junction NC 80 and NC 70. Follow NC 70 into Old Fort.

109 mi Turn left @ traffic light. Junction US 70 and Catawba Avenue in Old Fort. Pass through town. Follow Bat Cave Road south.

121 mi Turn left @ stop sign. Junction Bat Cave Road and NC 9.

128 mi Turn left @ stop sign. Junction NC 9 and US 74A (Gerton Highway).

128.3 mi Traffic Light. Junction US 74A and US 64. Go through traffic light to see Chimney Rock in 2 miles. Explore Lake lure. Turn right to leave the area on US 64 (left turn when leaving).

Scenic Lake Lure, south of Asheville, in the Hickory Nut Gorge is worth the side trip

140 mi Cross over I-26 on US 64. Continue into Hendersonville.

143 mi Turn left, then right @ traffic lights downtown to continue west on US 64.

160 mi Pass straight through traffic light @ Junction US 64 / US 276 / NC 280. onto US 276. Good place add some gas to your tank.

175 mi Pass under Blue Ridge Parkway and continue on US 276.

195 mi Return to start in Waynesville via US 276.

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There is a restaurant at Mt. Mitchell. You’ll also find food in Chimney Rock / Lake Lure, as well as Hendersonville and Brevard.

Hendersonville is a bit congested with some traffic.

Map of Mt. Mitchell / Chimney Rock loop ride

Click to enlarge

This ride and all the surrounding roads are detailed on –

Map #5 – The Best Roads North & South of Asheville, NC

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

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Wayne Busch

Learn Total Control

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Best Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – A sport bike loop

Posted on February 26, 2013 by Wayne Busch

Best Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – A sport bike loop ride

When I’m looking for a “dragon like” challenge close to home, this 90 mile loop satisfies every time!

Section of NC 215 near Lake Logan. You’ll find some nice scenery on the popular road. The curves so far are just a warm up for what lies ahead.

As much as I enjoy a ride on the infamous Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, it’s a bit of a ride to get out to it from the Waynesville / Maggie Valley area where I live. Fortunately, there are ample challenging roads nearby, and when I really want a peg-scraping ride, this is one of my favorite local loops. For those on sport bikes, it’s a must-do when you are in the area.

The higher you go the better it gets on NC 215. The road crests where it meets the Blue Ridge Parkway, then plunges down the other side of the gap.

The map originates in the small crossroads town of Bethel, NC south of Waynesville, Canton, Maggie Valley, and Junaluska. It can also be done as a side loop off the Blue Ridge Parkway (exit at Beech Gap, MP 423.3, NC 215 – cuts 36 miles off the route).

Descending from the Blue Ridge Parkway on NC 215

The curves continue as you descend from the Blue Ridge Parkway with a brief break when you enter a valley. The curves that follow really kick it up!

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Length: 90 miles plus your ride to the start in Bethel, NC.
Ride time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Very challenging, tight curves, climbs and descents, sustained, varied road surfaces, all paved

Imagine miles and miles of curves like this one – a.k.a. Silversteen Road

Turn-by-turn route description:

Start at traffic light in Bethel (junction US 276, NC 215, NC 110).

Follow NC 215 – starts as Love Joy Road. Easy section through farmland along river with a few sharp turns.

2.9 mi – Turn left @ stop sign to continue on NC 215. Junction Love Joy Road and Lake Logan Rd (NC 215). Moderately difficult. Rolls through houses, some nice curves, section along Lake Logan very nice.

16.8 mi – Pass Sunburst Campground. Enter Pisgah National Forest. Start climb to Blue Ridge Parkway. Road gets more twisty here. Nice stop at a roadside waterfall. Beware loose gravel on road, especially in turns, most likely to be found in the highest sections. Difficult.

17.9 mi – Pass Blue Ridge Parkway ramp. Popular break spot, if not at the junction, go up to the parkway and turn right to reach a nearby overlook with lots of parking. Continue under the parkway on NC 215. Good views from the highest section. Road surface improves south of parkway. Difficult.

35 mi – Turn right @ stop sign onto US 64. Junction NC 215 (Parkway Road) and US 64. Just a short section on this sometimes busy road. Easy.

Charlie’s Creek Rd – typical of the wonderfully empty and inviting rides that abound in the Smokies

37.7 mi – Turn right onto Silversteen Road. Junction US 64 and Sliversteeen Rd. Sign warns of tight turns ahead, believe it! Difficult.

38.3 mi – Keep right on Silversteen Rd. Junction Silversteen Rd and Golden Road. Difficult.

43.6 mi – Sharp left turn to stay on Silversteen Road. Junction Silversteen Rd and Macedonia Church Road. If you don’t make this turn, you will end up back on NC 215. Difficult.

45.7 mi – Turn right @ stop sign onto NC 281. Junction Silversteen Road and NC 281 (Canada Road). Nice section, a little loose gravel in places. Difficult.

57.6 mi – Turn right onto Charlies Creek Road. Junction NC 281 (Canada Road) and Charlies Creek Road. Be on your guard, surprising turns on this road. Difficult.

Wolf Creek Dam near the midpoint of NC 281, one of the scenic points on this great motorcycle ride.

68.4 mi – Turn left onto NC 215. Junction Charlies Creek Road and NC 215. Start back on a road you’ve been on previously.

89.7 mi – Follow NC 215 back to Bethel.

You’ll find gas stations in Bethel, on NC 215 on the south side of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and at the turn off US 64 onto Silversteen Road.

Jukebox Junction is a popular diner in Bethel. It’s mostly gas station food for the remainder of the ride.

You’ll find these roads and many others in the surroundings on America Rides Maps motorcycle pocket map #6 – The Best Motorcycle Rides Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park – EAST.

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Wayne Busch

Learn Total Control

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Best Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – NC 215 Update

Posted on September 10, 2012 by Wayne Busch

After hearing of several wrecks this weekend I decided I’d better make another run out to NC 215 near the Blue Ridge Parkway to check the status of the road work. The photo shows the current state – a new coat of gravel.

Best Motorcycle Rides in NC - NC 215 - new gravel

Best Motorcycle Rides in NC – NC 215; This rider made the right choice for him, hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fresh gravel on NC 215 at this stage of the repaving, it will get better soon.

If you like drifting your motorcycle and power sliding through turns, it doesn’t get much better than this. A topcoat of gravel over s smooth hard base makes for ideal conditions. I had a blast!

Most riders though are going to find this the worst of conditions, and for now you’d better avoid it until the next phase of roadwork is completed. I’ll keep and eye on it and let you know when it improves.

Best Motorcycle Rides North Carolina - NC 215

Best Motorcycle Rides North Carolina – Paving on NC 215 has started from the top down. You can see one lane done here, still a way to go.

ADD – Looks like US 276 is done, nice pavement, but still no road markings. Read More about what’s going on here – http://smokymountainrider.com/?p=5031

You’ll find these roads on America Rides Maps motorcycle pocket map #6 – The Best Motorcycle Rides EAST of Great Smoky Mountains National Park along with another 50 or so outstanding rides in the surrounding area and a guide to the numerous roadside waterfalls.

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Wayne Busch

Learn Total Control

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Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon Map

Posted on July 23, 2012 by Wayne Busch

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon Map

Three roads are consistently on the top 10 motorcycle rides list – The Blue Ridge Parkway, the Dragon at Deals Gap, and the Cherohala Skyway. This map shows how connect them.

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon Map – how to connect 3 of the best motorcycle rides – click for larger view

Many who ride motorcycles on the The Blue Ridge Parkway when motorcycle touring then go on to ride The Dragon at Deals Gap. If you can afford the time, you can make a nice loop ride which connects The Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway using TN 72 / 360.

Best Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks – highest point. The long sweeping overlook compliments the great sweeping views

The southern end of the The Blue Ridge Parkway is near Cherokee, NC. The map includes Maggie Valley / Waynesville as it’s one of the best locations to stay to enjoy the wealth of great motorcycle rides in the surrounding area.

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon Map – riders come from around the world to experience the Dragon at Deals Gap.

Time / distances are from the eastern junction of the roads for riders starting from Maggie Valley / Waynesville. US 74 is the principal 4 lane road – scenic for a highway, the most direct route east / west. US 19 leads west from Maggie Valley, passes through Cherokee and Bryson City. It’s more curvy, passes through the Cherokee Indian Reservation, and takes a bit longer due to traffic.

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon map - Cherohala skyway

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon map – The Cherohala Skyway offers sweeping curves and views to match with scenic overlooks at 5000+ ft.

Approaching Deals Gap and The Dragon, NC 28 is also one of the top rated roads in the area a.k.a the Hellbender or Moonshiner 28 and leads you to the start of the best section of The Dragon near the NC / TN state line.

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon map – NC 28 leads you to The Dragon. It traces the shoreline of Fontana Lake and is both beautiful and challenging.

So long as you are in the area, don’t forget about another well known motorcycle ride in Georgia – The Gauntlet. It’s only a short ride to reach it, and you’ll have experienced the best of the southern Blue Ridge motorcycle rides.

The Gauntlet Motorcycle Ride in Georgia – rounding a curve on GA 348

Several America Rides motorcycle pocket maps cover the Dragon / Cherohala area – see them here;

#7 The Best Motorcycle Rides SOUTH of GSMNP –http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/7-The-Best-Motorcycle-Rides-SOUTH-of-GSMNP-NC021.htm

#8 Best Rides NORTH of Smoky Park – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/8-Best-Rides-NORTH-of-Smoky-Park-NC020.htm

12 Classic Deals Gap Motorcycle Rides – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/12-Classic-Deals-Gap-Motorcycle-Rides-NC007.htm

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Wayne Busch

Learn Total Control

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Smoky Mountain Motorcycle Rider

The Best Motorcycle Rides in the Mountains

Category Archives: Waynesville

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3 Best Motorcycle Rides Near Maggie Valley

Motorcycle Friendly – Still Mountain Restaurant, Hot Springs, NC

Motorcycle Touring – Towns Near Great Smoky Mountains Park

Stay Near the Best Mountain Motorcycle Rides

Smoky Mountain Motorcycle Spring Road Report April 2013

Best Motorcycle Rides – A Mt. Mitchell Loop Ride

Best Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – A sport bike loop

Best Motorcycle Rides in North Carolina – NC 215 Update

Blue Ridge Parkway to Tail of the Dragon Map

#7 The Best Motorcycle Rides SOUTH of GSMNP –http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/7-The-Best-Motorcycle-Rides-SOUTH-of-GSMNP-NC021.htm

#8 Best Rides NORTH of Smoky Park – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/8-Best-Rides-NORTH-of-Smoky-Park-NC020.htm

12 Classic Deals Gap Motorcycle Rides – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/12-Classic-Deals-Gap-Motorcycle-Rides-NC007.htm

Related articles across the web

#7 The Best Motorcycle Rides SOUTH of GSMNP –http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/7-The-Best-Motorcycle-Rides-SOUTH-of-GSMNP-NC021.htm

#8 Best Rides NORTH of Smoky Park – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/8-Best-Rides-NORTH-of-Smoky-Park-NC020.htm

12 Classic Deals Gap Motorcycle Rides – http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/12-Classic-Deals-Gap-Motorcycle-Rides-NC007.htm