Tail of the Dragon (US-129)
318 curves in 11 miles: the most famous stretch of tarmac in American motorcycling.
Photo: Washuotaku · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Distance
- 17.7 km · 11.0 mi
- Difficulty
- Strenuous
- Time needed
- 20–30 minutes each way; a full day with nearby roads
- Curves
- 318
- Best season
- April–October
Tail of the Dragon guide: US-129 at Deals Gap, 318 curves in 11 miles, the Tree of Shame, speed enforcement, the best days to ride and nearby roads.
At the southwestern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, US Highway 129 twists through dense forest with no intersections or driveways, just one curve after another. It became legendary among riders and sports-car drivers, and on summer weekends hundreds of bikes gather at Deals Gap.
The road is short, so most riders run it in both directions and combine it with the Cherohala Skyway and the Moonshiner 28 for an unforgettable day. Photographers line the road, and you can buy photos of your ride online that evening.
Stops along the way
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1
Deals Gap (NC/TN state line)
The legendary starting point at the North Carolina–Tennessee line. Fuel, food and the famous Dragon sign.
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2
Tree of Shame
A tree covered in broken motorcycle parts left by riders who crashed: a serious reminder to ride within your limits.
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3
Scenic pull-offs along US-129
A few gravel pull-offs let you stop, cool your tires and watch the action safely.
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4
Tabcat Creek Bridge
The bridge at the Tennessee end marks the finish. Turn around for the ride back, or head on to Chilhowee Lake.
Good to know
- The speed limit is 30 mph (48 km/h) and police patrol the road often.
- Ride on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
- Stay strictly in your lane; oncoming traffic often cuts the corners.
- Combine the run with the Cherohala Skyway for a full day of curves.
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