Looking For Some "Hidden Treasures" & Route Advice in N.C. & TN.

[CJBurbank]

I'm starting the beginning stages of planning our trip from Massachusetts to The Dragon and wanted to get some ideas of places to see on the way down through N.C.? We will be riding the BRP all the way down, but I'm thinking that after we hit The Dragon, we may work our way back through N.C.  I was wondering if they're any great sites you recommend? I'm looking for anything from historical, to off the beaten path, to local towns, anything that's different than the typical tourist traps.

I'm also looking for some route advice near the Knoxville area and also heading back east through N.C.

Thanks,

Chris

[vulcanbill]

Hit as many of the roads that drop off the parkway as you can especially in NC.  It will dramatically increase the amount of time it takes you to "get anywhere" but it'll be a hoot.  Favorites of mine are 80, 226a, 151, 276 and 215.  Good luck and have fun and do the dragon on a Wed morning if you can.

[lolife]

If you're going to be in Knoxville, then you're within range of  The Devil's Triangle.  There's a prison on the Devil's Triangle called the Brushy Mountain St Penitentiary.  Its closed now but it was the longest active prison in the US & housed James Earl Ray.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brushy_Mountain_State_Penitentiary  When we went through there weren't any tours but there was a guard at the fence that told us a lot about the prison.  He was either really bored or really eager to tell us some stories.  I hope they make it an historical landmark that you can tour.  I'd go back tomorrow.





Depending on how you go back from Knoxville to NC, you can also hit The Snake along the way.  These aren't hidden gems but they're great rides none the less.

If you can try to take 19E to Roan Mtn TN where the Appalachian Trail crosses.  Off of 19E you can take 143 down to 261 for some great riding.  

Here it is on google maps --   http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Roan+Mountain,+TN+37687&daddr=N+Carolina+261+S&hl=en&geocode=FYZPKAIdgLQb-ymv99qyJYVQiDEKbNh8OMGDkQ%3BFUaNJQIdMFsa-w&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=14&sll=35.996688,-82.162628&sspn=0.046665,0.106173&ie=UTF8&ll=36.142034,-82.082634&spn=0.186314,0.42469&z=12

Again, its not a hidden gem but if you're going to ride The Dragon, then The Cherohala Skyway is another great ride.  Its 50 miles long with no turn outs.  

[servicerifle]

CJBurbank
*
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Motorcycles: 2009 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS
Location: Southeastern, MA
Posts: 180


Nope.

[CJBurbank]

CJBurbank
*
Offline Offline

Motorcycles: 2009 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS
Location: Southeastern, MA
Posts: 180


Nope.

Seriously? You're not helping because how many posts I have or because I'm from Massachusetts? That's pretty pathetic that you would actually go through the exercise of making this point.  Then don't look at the post and move on if that's how you feel.

[CJBurbank]

Hit as many of the roads that drop off the parkway as you can especially in NC.  It will dramatically increase the amount of time it takes you to "get anywhere" but it'll be a hoot.  Favorites of mine are 80, 226a, 151, 276 and 215.  Good luck and have fun and do the dragon on a Wed morning if you can.

I'm fine with taking our time and riding. From what I've seen in my atlas of North Carolina, there seem to be a lot of great twisty roads. Thanks for the advice.

-Chris

[CJBurbank]

If you're going to be in Knoxville, then you're within range of  The Devil's Triangle.  There's a prison on the Devil's Triangle called the Brushy Mountain St Penitentiary.  Its closed now but it was the longest active prison in the US & housed James Earl Ray.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brushy_Mountain_State_Penitentiary  When we went through there weren't any tours but there was a guard at the fence that told us a lot about the prison.  He was either really bored or really eager to tell us some stories.  I hope they make it an historical landmark that you can tour.  I'd go back tomorrow.





Depending on how you go back from Knoxville to NC, you can also hit The Snake along the way.  These aren't hidden gems but they're great rides none the less.

If you can try to take 19E to Roan Mtn TN where the Appalachian Trail crosses.  Off of 19E you can take 143 down to 261 for some great riding.  

Here it is on google maps --   http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Roan+Mountain,+TN+37687&daddr=N+Carolina+261+S&hl=en&geocode=FYZPKAIdgLQb-ymv99qyJYVQiDEKbNh8OMGDkQ%3BFUaNJQIdMFsa-w&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=14&sll=35.996688,-82.162628&sspn=0.046665,0.106173&ie=UTF8&ll=36.142034,-82.082634&spn=0.186314,0.42469&z=12

Again, its not a hidden gem but if you're going to ride The Dragon, then The Cherohala Skyway is another great ride.  Its 50 miles long with no turn outs.  

Exactly what I'm looking for!! I will put this on the list. Thanks for all the information.

[kyzrex]

You must first realize that there are few, if any, BAD roads that you will ride going through E. Tenn and N.C to reach your destination, so the actual route won't really matter that much.  Blue Ridge Parkway, The Snake (aka 421), Deal's Gap are all well know for a reason.  Then ask yourself what your real interests are...what is it you specifiaclly want to see?  Museums? Parks? Historical places? Resurants? etc.  Once you have decided that, you can then start to pinpoint stoping places.  Use the internet to do a search for those places along the way.  

Such books/web sites as 1000 Paces to See Before You Die, RoadFood, Ride-to-Eat, Off the Beaten Path will help you to find those places.

I reccommend a tour of the Biltmore Estate in Ashville and a stop at Wheels Through Time in Maggie Valley for sure.

[CosmicCowboy]

Seconding Cherohalla Skyway. I thought it was much better than the Dragon.

[servicerifle]

Seriously? You're not helping because how many posts I have or because I'm from Massachusetts? That's pretty pathetic that you would actually go through the exercise of making this point.  Then don't look at the post and move on if that's how you feel.

Yes, that's right.  I don't give favorite roads to people that don't ride with me, and many Southerners are just tired of folks deciding that the South is such a nice place, they'll just move down.  Once there are enough of them, they start changing the laws to be just like where they came.  So, no, you're not welcome, and that's not just from me, but a whole host of other Southerners.  And if you don't like that, that's perfectly fine too, you can click that "ignore" button on the lower left of this post.

But ignoring me won't change the fact that you're not welcome.

[Scratch33]

Harsh, dude.

[CJBurbank]

That is some of the most asinine logic I've ever heard! Did you ever think about the fact that people who visit your state ACTUALLY CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR ECONOMY?!?!? Without tourists, the restaurants, hotels, shops, etc. wouldn't be able to survive. Secondly, I'm not moving down to your state, and as for laws being changed because us "northerners" moved down, then vote out the people who are doing it!!

Well thankfully, some of your fellow residents are kind enough to share their knowledge, which I'm appreciative of. So in the end, I guess I really don't need your input anyways. If it makes you feel any better, you're more than welcomed to visit this area.....I'd even buy you a beer.

You do know the war has been over for long time now right?

[RRdvark]

Loafers Glory.  Nothing special about it, just a small town with a diner.  Eat, buy a t-shirt, move along.

[gradus]

Loafers Glory.  Nothing special about it, just a small town with a diner.  Eat, buy a t-shirt, move along.

Perfect mid point for the Hwy 80 (north of 19E) and Double Island loop.  It's tough to find double island - but I assume a GPS would get you there. (I struggled with mapquest directions)

[gradus]

Yes, that's right.  I don't give favorite roads to people that don't ride with me, and many Southerners are just tired of folks deciding that the South is such a nice place, they'll just move down.  Once there are enough of them, they start changing the laws to be just like where they came.  So, no, you're not welcome, and that's not just from me, but a whole host of other Southerners.  And if you don't like that, that's perfectly fine too, you can click that "ignore" button on the lower left of this post.

But ignoring me won't change the fact that you're not welcome.

You're unlikely to run into this sentiment on your trip.  Kinda backwards thinking since most of the textile mills and furniture manufacturing has closed.  Tourist dollars are needed.  People keep coming back because a majority of the people you meet are very friendly.  

If I'm looking for twisties directly off of the parkway (assume the parkway is North-South)
215 - west side
276 - east side (run down to Looking Glass Falls - beautiful waterfall with no walk to get there)
80 -east side
226A - east side

Don't leave out the Cherohalla - I recommend running across starting in Robbinsville.  Turn around at the other side and run it again.  (the backside loop back to Deal's Gap kinda sucks compared to the other roads)  

[OSJ]

The few times Ive traveled down that way I was really impressed with how friendly everyone was.  Especially to motorcyclist, not just to a northerner.  

I am shocked by that post from that guy.  Not only for feeling that way towards a tourist thats going to spend money, but to a fellow motorcyclist as well.
 

You're unlikely to run into this sentiment on your trip.  Kinda backwards thinking since most of the textile mills and furniture manufacturing has closed.  Tourist dollars are needed.  People keep coming back because a majority of the people you meet are very friendly.  

If I'm looking for twisties directly off of the parkway (assume the parkway is North-South)
215 - west side
276 - east side (run down to Looking Glass Falls - beautiful waterfall with no walk to get there)
80 -east side
226A - east side

Don't leave out the Cherohalla - I recommend running across starting in Robbinsville.  Turn around at the other side and run it again.  (the backside loop back to Deal's Gap kinda sucks compared to the other roads)  

[vulcanbill]

The few times Ive traveled down that way I was really impressed with how friendly everyone was.  Especially to motorcyclist, not just to a northerner.  

I am shocked by that post from that guy.  Not only for feeling that way towards a tourist thats going to spend money, but to a fellow motorcyclist as well.
 

It's a harsh read but I can almost understand where he's coming from.  Maybe not the whole unwelcome thing but seeing what has happened to that area over the years, it must be very frustrating for the locals who call that their back yard.  8 years ago when we went down to that area, it was just like anyplace else.  421 was just about empty even on the weekend because there's little reason to be there.  We had a blast and saw few bikes.  The dragon was just a cool road.  It seems like every year, there is more and more commercialization and it really takes away the draw.  2 of the last 3 times down there, we stopped at the store, had a drink or sammich and left because the traffic was just too frightening to contemplate riding it at would have ultimately been parade speed anyway.  The one time we did was on a Wednesday and it was nirvana.  Catch 22.  The web has brought a lot of attention to the area and I'm sure there is much money being dumped into the local economy because of it.  But for every 100 (random arbitrary number) people that go through there with absolutely zero issues, there's one chump that draws the attention that nobody wants.  I can see that not being cool if you live down there.

I'm still riding down there cuz I like it.  Don't taze me bro.

[OSJ]

Well this forum is called sport TOURING right?  Isnt that complaint a little against the whole idea of getting on your motorcycle and god forbid...TOUR on it?  Last time I checked this wasnt called sport only in your state, county, city, town, neighborhood touring??
 
I do understand why some people might not be willing to share info on roads, even though they are public roads, for ALL Americans to use.   They dont want their own little slice of heaven clogged with thousands of bikers riding to it each season.   However remember who promotes the dragon and other motorcycling destinations, the people that PROFIT from visitors!
 
He may not like that , but  look at the map on his sign pic,  He traveled to more states the CJburbank has, and omg...did he get approval from the locals before he rode thru those areas??  Little hypocritical telling someone their not welcome in "his" state but he seems to think its okay traveling in other states?
 
I on the other hand love sharing that type of info with people that may come to New England.  Ive gone as far as spending hrs putting together routes in street & trips or mapsouce for people.

Bill, Ive been reading your posts for many years, even on the old ST board, I in no way think you would share that opinion of that guy.

It's a harsh read but I can almost understand where he's coming from.  Maybe not the whole unwelcome thing but seeing what has happened to that area over the years, it must be very frustrating for the locals who call that their back yard.  8 years ago when we went down to that area, it was just like anyplace else.  421 was just about empty even on the weekend because there's little reason to be there.  We had a blast and saw few bikes.  The dragon was just a cool road.  It seems like every year, there is more and more commercialization and it really takes away the draw.  2 of the last 3 times down there, we stopped at the store, had a drink or sammich and left because the traffic was just too frightening to contemplate riding it at would have ultimately been parade speed anyway.  The one time we did was on a Wednesday and it was nirvana.  Catch 22.  The web has brought a lot of attention to the area and I'm sure there is much money being dumped into the local economy because of it.  But for every 100 (random arbitrary number) people that go through there with absolutely zero issues, there's one chump that draws the attention that nobody wants.  I can see that not being cool if you live down there.

I'm still riding down there cuz I like it.  Don't taze me bro.

[vulcanbill]

Bill, Ive been reading your posts for many years, even on the old ST board, I in no way think you would share that opinion of that guy.

I said almost.  

[servicerifle]

He may not like that , but  look at the map on his sign pic,  He traveled to more states the CJburbank has, and omg...did he get approval from the locals before he rode thru those areas??  Little hypocritical telling someone their not welcome in "his" state but he seems to think its okay traveling in other states?

That's right I've taken several tours extending beyond my home geographic area of the US. Each time I have taken the time to get to know someone from there and ride along with them, rather than as them to post their favorites on the internet. That's called investing your time with the locals. Also, when I am done, I take my happy ass back home, I don't move to that area just because its so much nicer than my own, then try to change the laws to resemble my former state of residence.

As you are meandering down the BRP, just South of Fancy Gap, watch for a small gas station on the side of the road ( southern side, left as you travel South).  That place is a good example of which I speak. Looks like a good rider hangout, and it is, but I spoke to the owner earlier this year. I thought it odd that he felt the need to carry an 8" fixed blade knife on this belt in such a beautiful and peaceful place such as the BRP. I asked him about the place, noting that it had changed in the last few years. As soon as he opened his mouth I knew. Turns out he is from NJ or something, has been there two years.  I talked about this and that in the area, he said, "oh I don't know about anything locally.". Hmm. Thanks for coming to set up this shop, just for the money. I decided then and there he'd seen the last of my money and hoped the same would be decided by other locals.  

He is just an example. While yes there are southerners with 8" knives, its just inappropriate for the host at his location. The bigger issue is his lack of involvement in the community, on its terms. That's is my issue in a nutshell. Unlike black, American indian, Hispanic, and other sub-divisions of the American culture, the Appalachian culture is geographical rather than racial or ethnic. As such it is far easier to be lost or watered down. The entire area is now full of the same type of person, transplants from another area that don't integrate into the society, but rather try to change it. See Asheville, Lake Lure, "tellequah" (a fake town with a made to sound local name)...I can list several more. You can't list a single community in MA where a group of southerners or Appalachians have moved in and changed your laws to suit them. And its not for lack of money, not all of us are poor meth heads. We just don't want to be there. Apparently you don't either, but you have no respect for the locals who are already there.


The moral of the story:  you are welcome to come tour, but when that's done, please go home. And as you haven't even even integrated into the STN community, much less with a real person in the area to be you host, blatantly asking for favorite roads is rude here too. IMHO of course.  

[Scratch33]

^I don't think the OP's post is deserving of this response.  If I was disinclined for any reason to share information about local roads with someone else, I'd just not post at all.  There's no reason to take such a common inquiry and use it as a bashing point - IMO it runs counter to the intent and spirit of this forum.

[servicerifle]

You're welcome to your opinion, Scratch.  

[Scratch33]

And you're welcome to "my" roads.  Heck, if you find your way up here anytime let me know and I'll gladly ride them with you.  

[servicerifle]

And you're welcome to "my" roads.  Heck, if you find your way up here anytime let me know and I'll gladly ride them with you.  

I think you know, and my record here and on other sites shows, that I would do exactly that.  I'd ride with a local like you rather than ask you to blab about your stuff on the internet.  I respect the fact that you have places that you'd rather not be turned into "The Tail of the Dragon."  

[Scratch33]

FWIW my offer applies to anyone here, and has no pre-conditions.

[CJBurbank]

That's right I've taken several tours extending beyond my home geographic area of the US. Each time I have taken the time to get to know someone from there and ride along with them, rather than as them to post their favorites on the internet. That's called investing your time with the locals. Also, when I am done, I take my happy ass back home, I don't move to that area just because its so much nicer than my own, then try to change the laws to resemble my former state of residence.

As you are meandering down the BRP, just South of Fancy Gap, watch for a small gas station on the side of the road ( southern side, left as you travel South).  That place is a good example of which I speak. Looks like a good rider hangout, and it is, but I spoke to the owner earlier this year. I thought it odd that he felt the need to carry an 8" fixed blade knife on this belt in such a beautiful and peaceful place such as the BRP. I asked him about the place, noting that it had changed in the last few years. As soon as he opened his mouth I knew. Turns out he is from NJ or something, has been there two years.  I talked about this and that in the area, he said, "oh I don't know about anything locally.". Hmm. Thanks for coming to set up this shop, just for the money. I decided then and there he'd seen the last of my money and hoped the same would be decided by other locals.  

He is just an example. While yes there are southerners with 8" knives, its just inappropriate for the host at his location. The bigger issue is his lack of involvement in the community, on its terms. That's is my issue in a nutshell. Unlike black, American indian, Hispanic, and other sub-divisions of the American culture, the Appalachian culture is geographical rather than racial or ethnic. As such it is far easier to be lost or watered down. The entire area is now full of the same type of person, transplants from another area that don't integrate into the society, but rather try to change it. See Asheville, Lake Lure, "tellequah" (a fake town with a made to sound local name)...I can list several more. You can't list a single community in MA where a group of southerners or Appalachians have moved in and changed your laws to suit them. And its not for lack of money, not all of us are poor meth heads. We just don't want to be there. Apparently you don't either, but you have no respect for the locals who are already there.


The moral of the story:  you are welcome to come tour, but when that's done, please go home. And as you haven't even even integrated into the STN community, much less with a real person in the area to be you host, blatantly asking for favorite roads is rude here too. IMHO of course.  

Well, it's your life and your opinion, so god love ya! I'm not going to waste my effort in putting a long post into why your logic is silly. But my offer still stands that if you're ever up here, I'll be MORE THAN HAPPY to show you some roads.  


p.s. Going through life this angry isn't healthy....enjoy it....we've only got one life to live! (I'm slowly learning that myself)

[CJBurbank]

ANYWAYS.....back to the original topic!!!

I plan on hitting the Dragon for 1 day and then moving on. Not a fan of big crowds and would rather see places that are quiet. One of the best things about riding is going through little small towns that most wouldn't visit. I'm thinking of riding into Kentucky as well. So many roads and so little time.  

[Orson]

I'm always reminded of the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, when many people were all drawing or sculpting models of Devils Tower without knowing why  

ST.N is kinda like that  

We may ride GSXRs or Guzzis but, we all share that same attraction for riding long distances on bikes  

[vulcanbill]

ANYWAYS.....back to the original topic!!!

I plan on hitting the Dragon for 1 day and then moving on. Not a fan of big crowds and would rather see places that are quiet. One of the best things about riding is going through little small towns that most wouldn't visit. I'm thinking of riding into Kentucky as well. So many roads and so little time.  

I can't recommend strongly enough getting there on a weekday morning.  Also, make sure you leave enough time to do a couple runs to shake off the fear and get rid of the surprise factor.  It is so much nicer after you've been through a couple times to just know that there aren't obstacles in the road, gravel pits or other things that make you go eeeek.  You still have trucks to contend with and you never know when TN's finest might show up but your risks are reduced.  Your first couple times through probably won't include a lot of super speed stuff anyway but they've dropped the speed limit again so speeding in the legal sense is very very easy.  

Last time down we had the luxury of staying a mere 2 hours away so we dedicated a whole day to just getting a couple clean runs in.  It was awesome.  But you really wanna have your ducks in a row and leave the ego elsewhere.  This road and many in the area can and will show you your limitations and they're very unforgiving to "unwelcome visitors".    

Also, pay attention to the local sites.  If there has been an accident or worse recently, don't bother.  You'd be better off to watch a video than sit behind a string of traffic trying to pogo through at below the speed limit.  The new pull outs help TREMENDOUSLY but the number of people too proud to use them or those that take it upon themselves to make sure you don't do anything they wouldn't do can be taxing to the point of ruining a potentially awesome experience.  The less traffic that's there, the less likely that is to happen.

Have Fun.  Check out the Two Wheel Inn for a nearby place to stay.  It's MY favorite.

[CJBurbank]

I can't recommend strongly enough getting there on a weekday morning.  Also, make sure you leave enough time to do a couple runs to shake off the fear and get rid of the surprise factor.  It is so much nicer after you've been through a couple times to just know that there aren't obstacles in the road, gravel pits or other things that make you go eeeek.  You still have trucks to contend with and you never know when TN's finest might show up but your risks are reduced.  Your first couple times through probably won't include a lot of super speed stuff anyway but they've dropped the speed limit again so speeding in the legal sense is very very easy.  

Last time down we had the luxury of staying a mere 2 hours away so we dedicated a whole day to just getting a couple clean runs in.  It was awesome.  But you really wanna have your ducks in a row and leave the ego elsewhere.  This road and many in the area can and will show you your limitations and they're very unforgiving to "unwelcome visitors".    

Also, pay attention to the local sites.  If there has been an accident or worse recently, don't bother.  You'd be better off to watch a video than sit behind a string of traffic trying to pogo through at below the speed limit.  The new pull outs help TREMENDOUSLY but the number of people too proud to use them or those that take it upon themselves to make sure you don't do anything they wouldn't do can be taxing to the point of ruining a potentially awesome experience.  The less traffic that's there, the less likely that is to happen.

Have Fun.  Check out the Two Wheel Inn for a nearby place to stay.  It's MY favorite.

The goal is to get there on a Tuesday or Wednesday but preferably Tuesday. I plan on hitting it early in the morning too and then riding out on it on Wednesday morning.  I realize that it will be a zoo closer to the weekend, so I'm hoping Tuesday is the best day.

[eFnJustRide]

 Wow!   well I'm gonna ignore all the BS and and recommend one of my favorites. From the southern end of the Dragon(Deals Gap),bear left on Hwy 28 South or Hellbender. Almost no traffic, even on nice weekends, but great twistys. you can take it as far south as Franklin. If you're into views, follow it to Highlands and then head east on 64 to Cashiers and Lake Toxaway. Continue east and you can pick up 215(Parkway Road) to the Parkway. There will be traffic on the last part of 28 and on 64, but well worth it. Make sure you stop at Bridal Veil Falls and Dry Falls just before you get to Highlands. Good pizza in Highlands, you can't miss it. one of the best views in the SE on the right heading east form Highlands to Cashiers.  Give me shout and we'll meet you for a meal and/or a ride.


 Interesting info I found below:
Sport-Touring.Net is an online community of motorcycle enthusiasts dedicated to the exchange of ideas, information and philosophy relating to all aspects of motorcycling. Our goal is to become the leading resource for sport-touring enthusiasts seeking information and advice needed to plan, manage and launch their motorcycle adventures. Join us!

[beachy]

Last summer we stopped at the penland craft school. We really enjoyed sitting in on the glass blowing class very friendly no charge they have also a gallery there.
it is off penland rd. which is off hwy 19 between burnsville and spruce pine

[rajflyboy]

a couple roads I can think of off hand

1.   Rt 181 south of Linville, NC (Right off the BRP)  **  Maybe best road in NC outside of the dragon
2.   Rt 80
3.   221 from Linville to Blowing rock (Right off the BRP)
4.   226a (Little Switzerland right off the BRP)
5.   Brushy Mountain road If you have a little time to go over to the North Wilkesboro area (20 or 30 minutes from BRP)

Enjoy your trip.     Hit 181 if you can.   Its not out of the way at all.   It starts right at the BRP.

[vulcanbill]

And as you haven't even even integrated into the STN community, much less with a real person in the area to be you host, blatantly asking for favorite roads is rude here too. IMHO of course.  

You know what's funny?  Chris never even asked for roads.    All that huffing and puffing and weaving of fantasy about local politics and knives and Chris asked for this...

I was wondering if they're any great sites you recommend? I'm looking for anything from historical, to off the beaten path, to local towns, anything that's different than the typical tourist traps.

atypical touristy stuff.  As for judging someone by their post count, that's just vile.  So using that thinking, Shah would be the best motorcyclist and most deserving of our awe and admiration.    Sorry Shah.  

I can see how Chris and the OSJs could be outcast here.  They have nothing in common with any of us.  

Read that---->  http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,55247.0.html  Big beautiful ST bikes, riding through torrential downpours, racetrack as a destination, attempted roadside repair laying on the ground in the rain trying to help a fellow rider, taking the wives along and enjoying this sport as marriage maintenance, a long cabin, a stray dog, scary WV belly.  

Real amateurs.  

^I don't think the OP's post is deserving of this response.  If I was disinclined for any reason to share information about local roads with someone else, I'd just not post at all.  There's no reason to take such a common inquiry and use it as a bashing point - IMO it runs counter to the intent and spirit of this forum.

+1000.  OK, now I'm really going to let it go.  

 



NOW I'm done.  Couldn't find the high road on my gps.

[servicerifle]

That award is signed "Yours Truly."  I say, good job man.  I'm glad they recognized your potential.

[lws66]

   What a load........

[westkyguy]

 This is pretty f***ing funny.

[sammyseaman]

The moral of the story:  you are welcome to come tour, but when that's done, please go home. And as you haven't even even integrated into the STN community, much less with a real person in the area to be you host, blatantly asking for favorite roads is rude here too. IMHO of course.  

Fuck that noise. My white-neck Yankee ass is gonna set up a micro-brewery down there. God knows you'all need some good beer    

[Scratch33]

Fuck that noise. My white-neck Yankee ass is gonna set up a micro-brewery down there. God knows you'all need some good beer    

Don't get 'em likkered up - that's how the last war got started.

[CosmicCowboy]

Fuck that noise. My white-neck Yankee ass is gonna set up a micro-brewery down there. God knows you'all need some good beer    

We've got Yazoo brewery. What do you have to offer?

**Yankee living in Nashville**

[rockertom]

I would say order a madmaps of the region and go have fun with that.

www.madmaps.com

[lws66]

And then when you move down here to set up camp and reform......... , go out and get as many "county" maps as you can find for the area you want to explore. That's where all the great hidden gems are, shown on county maps for those that don't like to just turn onto a road and see where it takes you. You'll end up with a boatload of maps, but you'll be the "route king" with all you local buds who cant be bothered with maps and such, and when your Yankee riding buddies come down and you show them some roads, it will only be a matter of time before they too relocate down here and slowly overtake the locals and transform this region into the modern era!!!  

[BentAero]

Chris,

You didn't mention what month you're going to be in the area. The weather and elevation differences can determine what's fun or torture.

-Yankee infiltrator living in disguise in NC.

[CJBurbank]

Chris,

You didn't mention what month you're going to be in the area. The weather and elevation differences can determine what's fun or torture.

-Yankee infiltrator living in disguise in NC.

Sometime in either July or August, still haven't nailed down a date yet.

-Chris

[Black Sheep]

Chris,

You didn't mention what month you're going to be in the area. The weather and elevation differences can determine what's fun or torture.

-Yankee infiltrator living in disguise in NC.

I knew if I lurked here awhile I would find some more of you... someone will be by shortly to collect you. North Carolina has a dedicated place for your type - CARY, NC. Of course CARY is an acronym for Containment Area for Relocated Yankees. It's located conveniently near the state capitol and the international airport making processing and deportation quick and easy. It was nice of you to visit. Ya'll come back now, ya hear!


Just kidding, of course... sort of... Cary is real... it is near Raleigh and the airport... and it happens to be full of relocated yankees...  

[CJBurbank]

I'm looking at my map here and noticed Little River Road and Laurel Creek Rd inside the Smoky Mountain Park. Now they look great on the map with all their twisties, but are they normally packed with cars or LEO? If I can't have a "spirited" ride, then I'd rather avoid them. Any other roads inside I should hit? So far, I plan on seeing the Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome.

-Chris

[blackbuell]

If you want to ride at a good pace, choose roads outside of the NP; the roads in the Park are often choked with slow moving traffic, and speed limits are quite low.

Jon

[vulcanbill]

*CHOKED*

This is where all the people who have never seen white tail deer go to view the wildlife.  They'll stop in the middle of the road and gawk at a deer or a bunny like they're animals from outer space.  If you're going to go through the park, I recommend first light or shortly after then get out.  Save the spirited stuff for the Chair - ah - holla and the bottom of the parkway or maybe even the N. GA stuff if you can get that far.  

[CJBurbank]

I figured as much, but thought I'd ask. The advice everyone has given me has been great and now I just need to start planning the routes.  

-Chris

[nantahala]

Stay away from the Park during summer unless you really want to see Clingmans Dome or something else specific in there.  Newfound Gap Road/Hwy 441 will be packed - it's a great road and even if you are there to see some of the sights, it gets really old going 5 mph up the mountain behind a string of RVs.  There is also a lot of construction planned right now, but I don't know if it will hit this summer or not.

Your best bet is to pick some small roads and wander around - play Road Roulette.  Mad Maps are good, as well as the roads mentioned earlier.  As with any trip, don't get tied into a certain route because something like a thunderstorm will pop up and it's much better to dodge the weather than have no fun riding through it.  I recommend staying away from Highway 64 through Highlands and Cashiers.  It's a great road, but is always pretty crowded during the summer.

Let us know when you're in the area.

Matt

PS a nice little side excursion is the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest at this end of the Cherohala.  They recently blew up some of the dead Hemlocks which is interesting to see, as well as the big Poplars.
 

[dlrides]

Bypassing WV, and Western VA to ride this so-called "Dragon", is like choosing a hotdog over a free steak dinner !

I'll never understand it.

 

[HappyRiding]

 

[Orson]

They recently blew up some of the dead Hemlocks which is interesting to see, as well as the big Poplars.
 

Do you mean they used explosives on trees?

seems like overkill, no?  

[tjhess74]

very interesting thread so far...

i do have some suggestions, but ill address servicerifles stance first.  having been down here for almost 20 years (came from the west, so i actually downgraded my mountain status!), i have noticed a huge difference with the influx of northeast transplants and the political climate.  it is frustrating.  also, roads like the dragon are a victim of their own success and over commercialization.  the proliferation of these roads on the internet creates such a large audience and crowded roads full of idiots.  from what i can gather, as long as you dont move here, hell be ok.

with that being said, ill still offer suggestions...

having done the skyline and brp from top to bottom, ill say you may not want to not do that.  the speed limit is 45...the whole way.  the scenery (especially the upper half) gets very repetative (same views, same curves...).  the park rangers have little tolerance for speeding (you will start to speed after ahwile...it just happens). you also have to deviate off the road for any services.  the brp can be very crowded at times as well, reducing your speed to single digits.  god forbid someone in a car sees a deer.  people lose all common sense when that happens.  they will stop and park in the middle of the road without warning and exit the car for a closer look.  once one person stops, everyone else wants to stop and look too.

so, i say skip the upper half of the brp and hit some roads in virginia and cut over to west virginia.  they have some spectacular roads.  alot of curves there are decreasing radius though, so use caution.

once you get down towards north carolina, pick up the brp around grandfather mountain and go down to cherokee, nc from there (or start in cherokee and go up towards gf mtn on your way back up).  that is the most worthwhile part of the brp imo.

alot of great roads have been mentioned, but ill add the moonshiner.  its hwy 28 from upper south carolina all the way up to the end at the base of the dragon.  imo its the best road up there.  lots of curves, nice scenery (waterfalls), and traffic isnt usually too bad.  very few leo's.

great smoky mtn natl park is nice...take the hike to the lookout, its worth it (i forget the name, but i think someone mentioned it already).

you will find that riding the dragon is fun (provided its not full of cops, squids, or harleys that day), and you should do it just to say you did. but youll find other roads MUCH better.  +10 on the cherahola skyway. eat lunch in tellico plains and visit motorcycle outfitters while youre there.

oh, and chimney rock is cool.

[gradus]

having done the skyline and brp from top to bottom, ill say you may not want to not do that.  the speed limit is 45...the whole way.  the scenery (especially the upper half) gets very repetative (same views, same curves...).  the park rangers have little tolerance for speeding (you will start to speed after ahwile...it just happens).

Just a note on the speeding.  I've been riding the BRP for years - different sections, different times of day and different times of the year.  Even thought the speed limit is 45, you won't get a ticket for below 60mph.  I've passed numerous rangers at that speed.  Some have turned on their lights and turned them off when they see me slow down.  I once got a written warning ticket for 59mph.  Ranger said he tickets for 60 and over.  That being said, I've run large sections between 60-70mph.  That's a great happy zone between aggressive and relaxed for hours at a time.  As said previously, the southern section is best, but I'd put it a little further down at everything south of Hwy80.  Good views before 80, but after has a better combination of curves and views.    

 

[gradus]

I'll comment on a few more.

Hwy28.  Best 100 mile stretch of road in NC.  Others recommended, but one person left off between Highlands and the SC line.  It's one of the best parts for deep peg scraping lean angles at decent speeds and great pavement.  The road has about 4 different personalities in that 100 miles.  

Hwy 181 - mentioned as best in the state.  Too different to compare to other roads, but very good.  It's a twisty road that can easily see triple digits on the straights, but fast high lean peg scraping turns.  One of the best parts is that a 3rd lane opens and closes frequently (2 lanes one direction, 1 other), which is why you're more likely to see those triple digits getting ahead of traffic.        

[NoGear]

I'll add my voice here. I rode the Dragon and BRP last fall.  It gets very repetitive and you have to plan your fuel stops carefully. There are none on the BRP.   If you really want to ride it then get on it just north of Ashville and ride it to end (or start depending on your geography)  

Also, I'll second looking at MAD Maps.  They are shitty for navigating but great for route planning.  There are so many great areas around NC/TN that I'm going back  the last week of April.... again....

As for as the comment about not being welcome! F' him. You Yankees and your dollars are welcome! Come on down and spend a fortune! You do know the difference between a Yankee and a damn Yankee don't ya?  A Yankee comes down on vacations, spends his money and goes home. A damn Yankee comes down and stays!!!   j/k  LOL


BTW Dropkick Murphy's Rule!!!

[OSJ]

I figured as much, but thought I'd ask. The advice everyone has given me has been great and now I just need to start planning the routes.  

-Chris

Hey Chris, not sure how much time you spend over here....just thought I would bump this thread up to show how karma works

According to karma, performing positive actions results in a good condition in one's experience, whereas a negative action results in a bad effect. The effects may be seen immediately or delayed.

[scott19]

Hey Chris, not sure how much time you spend over here....just thought I would bump this thread up to show how karma works

According to karma, performing positive actions results in a good condition in one's experience, whereas a negative action results in a bad effect. The effects may be seen immediately or delayed.

I was thinking the same thing.

[servicerifle]

I still don't believe in karma, guys, but since you do, don't you think your inner happiness in another's misfortune might bring some bad karma your way too?

[sprint_st]

Bypassing WV, and Western VA to ride this so-called "Dragon", is like choosing a hotdog over a free steak dinner !

I'll never understand it.

 

Yep, and there are places in central PA, and lots of other places along the way that are as much fun but without having to endure the circus.

I totally concur with Sevicerifle on putting roads on the web but the Northerner/Southerner stuff is in my "opinion" BS.
This is my list of great cycle road killers:
1. Giving a road a name - Dragon, Snake, Devil's Triangle, Diamondback, etc.
2. Putting the road on the net - public GIS route site, Group Rider, etc.
3. Talking to much about the roads on forums with very wide distribution.

You can't hide the good roads and you should show them to your riding buddies.  Just don't advertise them to the planet.  Like Servicerifle alluded to, when you go to a new area try to contact someone in that area to show you the local routes.  

I've been riding from PA to N.Ga to include WV, VA, MD, SC, NC, and TN since about 1965.  IMO, two groups of riders have ruined the most roads for me.  One are the packs of cruisers that hold up even bicycle riders.  The other is moron crotch rocketers who piss off the locals with there antics and bring in the LEO's.

[OSJ]

I still don't believe in karma, guys, but since you do, don't you think your inner happiness in another's misfortune might bring some bad karma your way too?

Im getting no inner happiness from anyone misfortune...

[CJBurbank]

Fortunately or unfortunately....depending on your point of view (I know you'll be happy servicerifle), I won't be able to make the trip this year. My folks are taking my wife and I to Europe which I'm very excited for, but was also a bit disappointed because I was looking for to this trip (I know....I know I'm bitching over an awesome free vacation   ) The goal is to do it in 2012 which will give me more than enough time to plan out an epic trip. I do appreciate all the feedback from everyone sincerely.

As for karma servicerifle, I was pissed to hear that some prick took your bike, so I take no pleasure in hearing that. I'm not going to sit here and bash you about that, especially after you've served our country as a member of our armed forces. Maybe you don't like us "yankees" but I'm not going to get into a pissing contest and wish bad things upon someone who put their life on the line for this country (believe it or not, us "yankees" do have a heaaaaaart!)

Just remember, at some point we all ask for road advice at one time or another...........do you remember this? http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,5700.0.html  

[servicerifle]

Yes, I do, but I always have a stipulation, and the longer I ride the more I take it to heart...

I want a local to be a part of the experience, and/or keep it off the internet, like Sprint_ST said.

In fact, if your trip South (which now you unfortunately can't make) I'd be genuinelyhappy to show you around.  That goes for anyone as long as they're not a total asshat on a bike, but can keep up.  


Looked at another way, it kinda chafes me when someone walks into the room and says "Where all the hot womenz at?!"  Well.  Before you come into the neighborhood and start taking my time with my local "J-Lo look-alike" away, how about become my buddy so I don't get hot under the collar?  Similarly,why don't you show yourself friendly to a few locals and ride with them?  I did the same when I took that trip in '07, I met a lot of good folks and they took me riding on their roads.  




On karma, I'm probably one of the minority in this forum who has spent significant time in SE Asia.  If it weren't for the fact that I'm agnostic, I'd be Buddhist.  That's coming from a Christian upbringing.  I like the idea of it but still don't put stock in a mystical force that rewards good and bad.  Things are just what they are.  I'm saying this because I understand karma quite well, I just don't believe things are connected that way.

Lastly, I haven't been in the military since 1997.  Done a lot of work for them since, though.     The real credit goes to the men and women STILL signing up (and have been for the last 10 years now) knowing full well what they're getting into.

[freecatSV]

I'm starting to see servicerifle's point. I am the worst kind of Yankee (if being from Missouri makes me a Yankee... midwesterners don't see themselves that way, since they ALSO wear trucker hats and overalls without a hint of hipster "irony"); I moved to WNC. But now that I've been here a while I'd really like the chance to show you the roads I like, and even treat you to a good meal. But I would hate to see my favorite roads clogged with overpriced butt-jewelry just because they've been posted all over the internet. I used to think cars were a bummer, but most drivers around here will pull off and let motorcyclists by. Guess who doesn't let motorcycles go by?

[CJBurbank]

Yes, I do, but I always have a stipulation, and the longer I ride the more I take it to heart...

I want a local to be a part of the experience, and/or keep it off the internet, like Sprint_ST said.

In fact, if your trip South (which now you unfortunately can't make) I'd be genuinelyhappy to show you around.  That goes for anyone as long as they're not a total asshat on a bike, but can keep up.  


Looked at another way, it kinda chafes me when someone walks into the room and says "Where all the hot womenz at?!"  Well.  Before you come into the neighborhood and start taking my time with my local "J-Lo look-alike" away, how about become my buddy so I don't get hot under the collar?  Similarly,why don't you show yourself friendly to a few locals and ride with them?  I did the same when I took that trip in '07, I met a lot of good folks and they took me riding on their roads.  




On karma, I'm probably one of the minority in this forum who has spent significant time in SE Asia.  If it weren't for the fact that I'm agnostic, I'd be Buddhist.  That's coming from a Christian upbringing.  I like the idea of it but still don't put stock in a mystical force that rewards good and bad.  Things are just what they are.  I'm saying this because I understand karma quite well, I just don't believe things are connected that way.

Lastly, I haven't been in the military since 1997.  Done a lot of work for them since, though.     The real credit goes to the men and women STILL signing up (and have been for the last 10 years now) knowing full well what they're getting into.

I can kind of understand where you're coming from on this. However, I'm not going to bother someone by asking them to take time out of their day to lead me around. I'm not saying that to be a dick either, I'm saying that as a person who doesn't want to be a bother to anyone. I know people have their lives to lead and I don't want to be "that guy" who asks people to take him around. That being said, motorcyclist's are a unique breed and will talk with anyone that rides a bike (except for some of those H-D guys......you know who they are   )!!! I guess it wouldn't be far fetched to ask someone I guess. I suppose that many friendships or whatever you want to call it, have been created because of the communication from this forum.

[CJBurbank]

I'm starting to see servicerifle's point. I am the worst kind of Yankee (if being from Missouri makes me a Yankee... midwesterners don't see themselves that way, since they ALSO wear trucker hats and overalls without a hint of hipster "irony"); I moved to WNC. But now that I've been here a while I'd really like the chance to show you the roads I like, and even treat you to a good meal. But I would hate to see my favorite roads clogged with overpriced butt-jewelry just because they've been posted all over the internet. I used to think cars were a bummer, but most drivers around here will pull off and let motorcyclists by. Guess who doesn't let motorcycles go by?

That's very kind of you to offer that. As for those "overpriced butt jewelry" riders, they NEVER think to themselves, "I'm riding a bit slower than these guys, I'll just let them by as a courtesy". Unfortunately these select few have given some of the good H-D guys a bad name.

[servicerifle]

 I guess it wouldn't be far fetched to ask someone I guess.

Far fetched?!  Ha!  Any excuse whatsoever will get most people on this forum out on a bike and riding.  I was surprised that there was no "Kate Middleton Wedding Celebratory Ride" lol.  

A "Can someone show me around and lead me on some great roads?" would be quite refreshing, and welcomed.

I'm not always in the area, unfortunately, but when I am, I'm always up to show off some roads.

[freecatSV]

"Overpriced butt jewelry" does not only refer to H-Ds, or even cruisers necessarily.

[nantahala]

"Overpriced butt jewelry" does not only refer to H-Ds, or even cruisers necessarily.

I thought that referred to Ducatis...

[freecatSV]

I thought that referred to Ducatis...

 

[DXTL]

I would say order a madmaps of the region and go have fun with that.

www.madmaps.com

 
+1 for MadMaps. helps you to find the most scenic routes.

[sprint_st]

 
+1 for MadMaps. helps you to find the most scenic routes.

I guess if you don't have anything else, like a friend in the area they are OK, but they are just that OK.  They use liberal use of cartegraphic abstraction.  That means what you see on the map isn't always what you get on the ground.  Additionally what they choose for the routes often leaves a lot to be desired.  IMO, and I would think servicerifle too, that isn't always a bad thing for the locals.

Actually, I prefer a good Rand McNally gas station type road map because it just has more roads than MadMaps. MadMaps leaves a LOT of secondary road off.  Then again, I have the advantage of making my own maps.  That means I do my own research and that is the major flaw with using MadMaps, you have to depend on someone elses research.

[25knots]

didn't see if it was mentioned already, but nc 89 between MT airy and danbury has some great, tight banked curves.  north of that is squirrel spur rd., which runs right up to the blue ridge

[Hunter]

Honestly,there are no bad roads in the area. Got a compass? Pick a direction and go and you'll be more than satisfied, really no reason to hunt for "hidden" gems as their all good.

If you really want to get your heart rate up and have some sphincter tightening moments, stay in your back yard and ride 95 into Boston. Jeebus, I've never mined so much seat foam before or since and I was in an E-350.   You guy's are crazy.