Asheville, Tail of the Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway Weekend Tour

Day 1: Asheville to Deals Gap

Morning:

1. Departure from Asheville:

   • Start your ride from Asheville, NC around 9:00 AM.
   • Take I-40 W and US-74 W towards Bryson City, NC.

2. Stop in Bryson City:

   • Arrive in Bryson City around 10:30 AM.
   • Take a short break and explore the charming town.
   • Visit the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and grab a coffee at a local café.

Midday: 3. Ride to Fontana Dam:

• Depart Bryson City around 11:30 AM and take NC-28 N to Fontana Dam.
• Arrive at Fontana Dam around 12:30 PM.

1. Lunch at Fontana Village Resort:
   • Enjoy lunch at the Fontana Village Resort.
   • Explore the dam and take in the scenic views.

Afternoon: 5. Ride to Deals Gap:

• Depart Fontana Dam around 1:30 PM and continue on NC-28 N to Deals Gap.
• Arrive at Deals Gap around 2:30 PM.

1. Ride the Tail of the Dragon:
   • Experience the thrill of riding the Tail of the Dragon (US-129), renowned for its 318 curves in 11 miles.
   • Enjoy the ride and take plenty of breaks to soak in the scenery.

Evening: 7. Stay at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort:

• Check into the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort or a nearby accommodation.
• Enjoy dinner at the resort's restaurant and share stories with fellow riders.

Overnight:

• Stay overnight at Deals Gap.

Day 2: Deals Gap to Asheville

Morning:

1. Breakfast at the Resort:

   • Enjoy breakfast at the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort.
   • Depart Deals Gap around 9:00 AM.

2. Ride to Cherohala Skyway:

   • Take NC-28 S and US-129 S to the Cherohala Skyway.
   • Arrive at the Cherohala Skyway around 10:00 AM.

3. Ride the Cherohala Skyway:

   • Enjoy the scenic ride along the Cherohala Skyway, known for its sweeping curves and beautiful vistas.
   • Take breaks at various overlooks to admire the stunning views.

Midday: 4. Lunch in Tellico Plains:

• Arrive in Tellico Plains, TN around 12:00 PM.
• Have lunch at a local restaurant like Tellico Grains Bakery.

Afternoon: 5. Ride back to Asheville via Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Depart Tellico Plains around 1:00 PM and head back towards Asheville.
• Take the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic return ride.
• Enjoy the mountain views and winding roads.

Evening: 6. Return to Asheville:

• Arrive back in Asheville around 4:00 PM.
• Explore Asheville’s downtown area, visit local breweries, or relax at your accommodation.

1. Dinner in Asheville:
   • Conclude your trip with dinner at a local favorite like Tupelo Honey or The Bull and Beggar.

End of Trip:

• Enjoy a relaxing evening in Asheville or head home.

This itinerary offers a mix of thrilling rides, scenic routes, and charming stops, providing a memorable two-day motorcycle adventure in the Asheville area, including the Tail of the Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway.