Loading...
Loading...
Tail of the Dragon, United States
The Tail of the Dragon (US-129) is an 11-mile stretch of road between Deals Gap, North Carolina, and Chilhowee, Tennessee, containing 318 curves with no intersections, driveways, or traffic lights. Built in 1930s as a mountain connector, it became famous among motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts for its continuous S-curves, elevation changes, and smooth pavement through dense Appalachian forest at the western edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road climbs through the Nantahala National Forest on the North Carolina side and drops through the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. Named curves include Gravity Cavity, Copperhead Corner, Wheelie Hell, and Brake or Bust Bend. The Tree of Shame at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort displays motorcycle and car parts from crashes. The Tail of the Dragon Scenic Overlook at the Tennessee end offers views into the Little Tennessee River valley.
explore by interest
Drive east to west (North Carolina to Tennessee) for better visibility on right-hand turns. The 11 miles take 30-45 minutes at safe speeds. No passing zones exist — do not cross the center line. Professional photographers set up at numbered curves to sell action shots. Weekdays are far safer and less crowded than weekends. The road is heavily patrolled. Watch for motorcycles leaning into blind curves.
April through November. Late October for fall foliage framing every curve. Avoid rainy days — wet leaves on 318 curves is genuinely dangerous. Weekdays are safest. Spring and fall weekends draw hundreds of motorcycles. Winter is quiet but the road can be icy.