130 curves-22 Miles-Largest Dam East of the Rockies
TheHellbender28.com motorcycle road is located in North Carolina and is a 22-mile ride between Johnson Gap in Stecoah, NC traveling to Deals Gap at the beginning of the Dragon. From Johnson Gap, The Hellbender starts its way through the beautiful smoky mountains with challenging turns for cars and motorcyclists. On the way you will pass by several unique locations such as Fontana Lake where there are pull-offs to take a photo of the views. Then continuing on you will cross the top of the Fontana Dam, and Fontana Lake. This dam was created as a hydro electrical power facility for World War II by the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1942. The dam is 480 feet high and 2,365 feet across the Little Tennessee River and is the highest dam east of the Rocky Mountains. The 2000 plus famous hiking trail, the Appalachian Trail also crosses the top of Fontana Dam. After passing Fontana Village, a peaceful lake resort you end up at the end of this 22-mile run which dead ends in to highway US129 the beginning of Dragon.
Get your souvenirs here… T-shirts, patches, pins, and more at motorcycleridershop.com
In The Great Smoky Mountains Near Robbinsville, North Carolina
The Inn, our dream, is a true log home bed and breakfast. Sitting on top of a knoll overlooking the Stecoah Gap. The 360 degree views are breathtaking. Less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail. Rooms are filled with primitive antique furniture along with several pieces faithfully hand-crafted by the innkeepers themselves. The pavilion is a great spot to host weddings.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape or an exciting outdoor adventure. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. We’re nestled along the shoreline of picturesque 2,800 acre Santeetlah Lake in the lush Nantahala National Forest. Blue Waters Mountain Lodge puts you in the heart of one of the nation’s most beautiful areas. Known for its natural splendor, activity filled outdoor lifestyle and deep serenity, this majestic setting offers a wealth of activities or the perfect backdrop to do nothing at all.
This unique combination of relaxation and action packed fun starts at the Lodge itself. Here you’ll find a game room complete with billiards, cards, darts, and a variety of indoor games. As well, there is croquet and horseshoes outdoors. For a quiet alternative, the Lodge offers a well-stocked reading library and plenty of decks. Enjoy outstanding lake and mountain views that invite you to settle in and relish the solitude.
The Cabins in the Woods is a gorgeous property nestled above Stecoah Valley just off NC-28. With some of the most spectacular scenery in Western North Carolina, we are situated in the center of all the outdoor activities you could want. The views are fantastic, and the laid back atmosphere makes your cares float away on a gentle mountain breeze.
Nantahala River Lodge, a unique riverfront, pet friendly cabin near Bryson City. Our 3 bedroom cabin by the river offers the best in Nantahala Lodging and is perfect for Families, Friends and Fishermen.
We custom designed and built our Nantahala River Lodge with reclaimed wood from our family’s North Carolina cabins and barn. Native stone was used inside and out. We furnished our home with handcrafted furniture and transformed family heirlooms into art. Every detail was carefully considered as we blended our family history into the creation of the Nantahala River Lodge. The Lodge offers accommodations for up to 8 people. Every room offers a view of the river. We encourage you to open the windows to bring the soothing river sounds indoors.
Fresh mountain air and wide open spaces make it easy to disconnect to reconnect. Retreat to the terrace rocking chairs, where the sounds of nature, the panoramic views of the Snowbird Mountains, and the southern breezes set the tone for a getaway like no other. TV’s are intentionally absent at Snowbird Mountain Lodge; it’s all part of the mountain retreat experience to free your mind and body of stress, and embrace nature’s elegance.
Sit in front of our massive stone fireplace, study our area’s rich cultural heritage, or partake in one of our specialty events such as birding or a wine dinner.
Have your first cup of coffee in our main lodge and our staff will guide you in tailoring your visit. We are here to cater to your relaxation, but will never impose on your privacy.
Many amazing adventures await you right outside our door. Explore Lake Santeetlah, hike secluded forest trails, and discover area waterfalls and rivers. For a slower paced activity, take a scenic drive along the Cherohala Skyway and Moonshiner 28 for stunning mountain vistas.
Hike our Snowbird Mountain Lodge trails without ever having to leave the property. Rest stops, picnic areas, and mountain views highlight two sets of trails. The Point Trail takes you to our Sunrise Deck, while the Santeetlah Trail traverses alongside our fire pit, tennis courts, and gardens, and ultimately arrives at the Sunset Deck.
Looking for a vacation that’s a little different, a little more, a little better than your last one? That’s why we’re here. At Sky Ridge, we strive to give our guests a place where they can relax and reconnect with themselves and with nature without giving up the comforts of home.
Perched high atop a mountainous ridge line with a view that will take your breath away, you’ll find seven well-appointed yurts ready and waiting for you and your friends and family to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a completely new and changing way. You just might not want to leave.
Complete end-to-end coverage of the Blue Ridge Parkway, north Georgia, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in a series of easy to fold pocket maps which show EVERY great ride in the mountains. I seek out the best two lane mountain back roads then show you the best ways and shortcuts to link them all together.
Stay on the best roads, see the best sights. We focus on ALL the good roads, not just the well known tourist routes. Of course you’ll find detailed coverage the famous named routes like the Dragon, The Blue Ridge Parkway, The Cherohala Skyway, etc., but you don’t have to ride a hundred miles on the highway to get to the next great road – we show you the good connecting roads so you can stay on the backroads and avoid the highways and towns and see the hidden sights most others miss.
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The good times are guaranteed when you explore the area around the Quality Inn® in Andrews. Our hotel sits minutes from Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. You’ll have all the comforts you’re after at our hotel but you won’t have to spend too much to get them. After all, we know you want to save your money for the fun that’s ahead.
Adults on their own or with the kids along for the trip will want to get up early to get out the door to the nearby attractions. But our free hot breakfast provides a perfect reason to stay in the hotel for at least a short time longer. Then put the energy from our famous waffles to work to spur you on throughout your day. Try white water rafting or zip lining. Or for the truly adventurous, drive the nearby Tail of the Dragon, one of America’s craziest roads thanks to its 318 turns over 11 miles. Not up for it? We understand.
There are plenty of other options in our corner of North Carolina. For those with an adventurous palate, plenty of wineries are waiting. Find your new favorite wine at Calaboose Cellars or Ferncrest Winery. Beer lovers will want to head straight to Hoppy Trout Brewery (and your kids will love the brick oven pizza).
All the comfort you need plus amenities you’ll love
By staying with us, you’re getting a comfortable stay plus plentiful amenities that add to a great value. You can fuel up for a day of hiking, watersports, or sightseeing with our free hot breakfast and free coffee. While you’re in the hotel, you’ll stay connected with our free WiFi. If you’re here on business, you can use our print station. Unwind by our bonfire pit.
When you’re ready to head back to your room, you can relax in front of the flat-screen TV. Enjoy in-room conveniences like coffee makers and refrigerators. All our rooms offer premium mattresses and linens plus plenty of fluffy pillows.
Whether you’re in Robbinsville on business, visiting friends and family, or just enjoying a mountain getaway, you’re sure to get your money’s worth. Located off Interstate 40 in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. The area’s natural beauty is everywhere around our hotel — you’ll love experiencing the picturesque sites nearby such as the Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, and Santeelah Lake.
Rivers Edge Treehouse Resort offers comfort and style, feel at one with the trees in an outdoor, “back to nature” setting.
Located on the Cheoah River near Robbinsville, North Carolina, this vacation experience is surrounded in all directions by scenery that would make a professional photographer envious.
We are excited for the chance to once again share the beautiful part of the North Carolina Smokies we call “home” with our guests. This year we will celebrate our 8th season and we look forward to greeting returning guests and meeting new friends who will be staying with us for the first time. To make your “river experience” more fun, we’ve added rock steps down to the Cheoah… easy access for any who want to cool off after a day of adventuring. Also new this year, “Grab and Go Lunches” from our favorite restaurant, The Willow Tree! Order your sack lunch ($11) or gourmet hiker’s pack for two (starting at $40) by 9pm the evening before and pick up Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays between 10am and noon at The Willow Tree. Full details and menus coming soon!
Centrally located in the middle of the Fontana Village Resort, the Wildwood Grill offers a warm and charming ambience, wonderful food, and friendly service. Whether you dine on the lively patio or settle into a cozy table inside, the Wildwood Grill delivers an unequaled mountain view with music, food, and great friends!
Join us for lunch or dinner. Stay close and relax after a casual meal near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The Grill is the front door to everything happening in Fontana Village Resort. The Wildwood Grill is open seasonally from Spring through Fall.
Gather your group for the daily recap and tell tales of disc golf wins, fish pulled from Fontana Lake, and the amazing sights of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Bring the amazing food of the Grill to your camping hotspot by calling for take-out.
Inside the Main Lodge, The Mountview Bistro at Fontana Village Resort boasts both great food and amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy a great meal in an elegant, relaxing, atmosphere while sharing stories of the day’s catch, wildlife seen on your hike, and the many other highlights of your Smoky Mountain vacation.
The Mountview Bistro offers a savory menu featuring the freshest local vegetables and meats, baked goods, and desserts plated to perfection. No matter your taste, the Mountview Bistro is the front row seat for every meal
Tapoco Tavern offers incredible outside dining experiences adjacent to the world famous Cheoah River. Indoor and private room options for groups also available.
Open Daily from 11 am to 8 pm
Perched on the banks of the world famous Cheoah River, Tapoco Tavern combines the very best of classic pizzeria and all American flavors with a view and environment unmatched in all of Western Carolina. Order up a wood stone oven pizza for the family or indulge in the house favorite, “Bloody Mary” from our full-service bar. From steaks, burgers, salads, and local Carolina Mountain trout, there’s something for everyone.
For years this place was known as “Tooties Cafe”, Stecoahs only resturant with some of the best food in Western NC. After years of great food and music entertainment, Tooties went out of buisness. A few years later the resturant was re-opened by three sisters known as Della Jordan, Kathy Cody and Teresa Carpenter and is now known as Stecoah Diner. Although Stecoah Diner does not have the music entertainment that Tooties had, it is still one of the best resturants to find great food in Western NC.
We are a local diner serving made from scratch dishes! With friendly service and a small town atmosphere! Be sure to stop in and see us
Discover really good food at Snowbird Mountain Lodge.
Innovative menus and enticing surroundings await you on the mountain.
Embrace The Nostalgia of Simpler Times
with a crackling fire in a historic lodge, walls lined with books, and a Mountain View beyond measure. Add in really good food with ingredients from farms and growers close by, sitting in classic rockers on the deck, or sipping your favorite cocktail while sharing laughter, and you have found Snowbird. A place where connection, intention, and nature are abundant and welcome you with open arms.
Seats are filling up fast! Make sure to get a reservation especially on the weekends! We have worked to package our meals in a way that lets you bring the quality of our meals into your home. We always love to see you in person, but even when we can’t we ensure that your dining experience is top notch!
From adding more balanced options to our Happy Meal®, to serving up fresh beef Quarter Pounder® burgers that are cooked when you order, we’re always finding ways to show our commitment to our customers and our food.
Fantastic little pineapple whip stand. Was a pleasant surprise to come across this after driving the Cherohala Skyway. The owner was very friendly and recommended the pineapple float which was awesome and refreshing! Lived the pieces of pineapple mixed in. Definitely a must stop if you are in the area.
“Experience a unique dinning experience
at Cafe de Olla”
Our family-owned and run business opened November 2019. Located at 810 Tallulah Road Robbinsville, NC, we serve Italian fare like pizza, pasta and calzones. We took our inspiration from classic Italian cuisine and added creative twist to deliver a menu that is innovative and inviting.
Experience Italian fare with a Mexican twist, featuring our Cafe de Olla, a traditional Mexican coffee using a traditional earthen clay pot to give special flavor to our coffee. It is made with ground coffee, cinnamon and “Pilloncillo” (raw dark sugar). Enjoy our deliciously sweet, cinnamon-infused coffee that will surely tickle your taste buds.
We are committed to provide highest food quality and use fresh Italian ingredients with reasonable rates.
Whether you are in the mood to indulge in something new of just want to enjoy classic Italian favorites, we promise to provide you a unique and pleasant dinning experience.
The essence of the perfect North Carolina family mountain vacation, this smoky mountain cabin sets the standard for family lodging. Situated in the heart of the Snowbird Mountains on Snowbird Creek the outdoor enthusiast will be as close to paradise as they can get on this earth. You can catch your limit of Rainbow or Brown trout without starting your car. Hike to waterfalls or a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Tranquility and seclusion on a private road affords long quiet walks and a safe place for the kids to act like kids. Our lakes and creeks will give you memories your family will cherish for a lifetime.
Fernwood Cottage offers a different type of mountain lodging in the Andrews, Murphy, North Carolina area — a vacation rental mountain lodge divided into two separate suites. Each suite is private with its own large living/dining/bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom with shower, handmade king-sized bed, plus queen sofa bed for additional guests and dining table for four. Separate heat and air-conditioning, free WiFi, satellite TV with DVD and VCR. Totally furnished, beautifully decorated and immaculately clean.
Don’t worry about rushing to the grocery store on arrival. A continental breakfast will be waiting for you on your first and second days. You have the privacy of your own cabin, but also the option to bring along friends and family and have the place to yourselves.
We’re Pet Friendly
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is part of the Nantahala National Forest, approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, NC, near Robbinsville as a living memorial to the writer/poet Joyce Kilmer. Veterans of the Foreign Wars asked the government to set aside a fitting stand of trees to serve as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action during World War I. Although Kilmer was both a soldier and a poet, he is most remembered for his poetry about common, beautiful things in nature
One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States, the area is administered by the U. S. Forest Service. The memorial is a rare example of old growth cove hardwood forest, a diverse type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. In 1975 the memorial forest was joined with a much larger tract of the Nantahala National Forest to become part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness.
Due to a devastating disease of the American chestnut tree that caused a rapid, widespread die-off of the once plentiful tree from its historic range in the Eastern United States, the American chestnut, once the dominant tree of the forest, was affected by the chestnut blight. Although the last of the Kilmer chestnuts had probably died by the late 1930s, their wood is so rot-resistant that remnants of the massive logs and stumps are still visible.
Another more recent loss is that of the giant hemlocks due to an infestation of an exotic insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid. For safety of visitors from a falling limb or tree, Forest Service managers decided to bring down dead trees near the memorial trail in a way they believed would mimic natural blowdown. In November 2010, the Forest Service blew up the trees with explosives, making the lower loop trail much lighter and drier.
The best way to enjoy the impressive memorial forest is by doing the easy 2-mile hike to see the majestic Trees such as Sycamore, Beech, Basswood, Red and White Oaks and Hemlock. Some of the trees are over 400 years old and the oldest Yellow-Poplars are more than 20 ft (6.1 m) in circumference and stand 100 ft (30 m) tall. Aside from the trees there are also other variety of shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses and other plants to see. This popular family hiking destination features an easy two-mile, figure-eight trail and has two loops: the 1-1/4 miles lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper ¾ mile loop swings through Poplar Cove, a grove of the largest trees.
The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Popular Cove – a grove of the forest’s largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
Located about 15 miles from Robbinsville. Take Highway 129 North for 1½ miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 4 miles to a stop sign/T intersection. Turn right and drive for approx 7.3 miles and bear to the right at the junction of Santeetlah Gap and the Cherohala Skyway. Continue for another 2½ miles to the entrance of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on your left.
Enjoy a complimentary award winning country breakfast served in your own private room. Four decks with creek views for your enjoyment. Gas grill, campfire area, hot tub, hiking trails just to name a few of the amenities right out the front door. Private entrance, fridge and microwave and tv in each room. Jetted bathtub and outdoor hot tub.
Lake View Drive, more commonly known as the “Road to Nowhere”, begins just outside Bryson City and runs approximately 6.5 miles inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its construction is like that of the Blue Ridge Parkway with many gentle curves and some beautiful vistas. Its destination is, literally, nowhere. The road was never completed after the construction of Fontana Dam, and it ends at the entrance to a tunnel. It’s a fun, short motorcycle ride that leads to some beautiful hiking trails. One set of trails is reached by walking approximately 1200 ft. through the tunnel. Another trail, Noland Creek, begins at a trailhead just before the end of the road. There is ample parking at the trailhead and at the tunnel.
Two Bedrooms, one bath beautiful Lake Nantahala lakefront cabin with all the extras. Queen Bed in Master, Twin Bunk Bed in Second Bedroom. Full Kitchen and Living Area with electric fireplace. Spacious porch. Beautiful outdoor covered Hot Tub, Grill, Outdoor Fire Pit and Private Dock. Enjoy a large private deck with plenty of space.
Beautiful mountain area, with all the needed conveniences at your fingertips.
Enjoy the facilities of Lakes End to include Café & Grill, Boat Rentals and Marina, Adventure Store, Volleyball, Horse Shoes and more. Free WiFi and local phone, and satellite Television in the living area.
We are nestled deep in the Great Smoky Mountains on the NC/TN state line and are known as the home of “The Dragon” motorcycle ride with over 318 curves in 11 miles. We are open from March 1st through late November and provide you with all of the amenities needed for a comfortable overnight stay. You will find many scenic and beautiful places to stop and take in all of the natural beauty that our area has to offer. Without a doubt, you will have one of the best motorcycling experiences one could have
Tourist attraction in Swain County, North Carolina
Ok so this wasn’t on MY bucket list .. but was on my husband’s so it was on our anniversary trip to-do list! And it really didn’t disappoint ether! 318 turns in 11 miles with steep drops and no guard rails! This road is not for inexperienced drivers… But if you drive slow and take the turns carefully it is a pretty amazing experience. There are some cool shops just before you drive into TN that mark the beginning of your drive, and they have memorabilia and stuff. Look for the dragon statue to your left– he is all made of metal! Just beware.. it isn’t for people who don’t like heights or who can’t navigate turns well.
318 turns in 11 miles, one of if not the best drive I’ve ever been on! If you love curvy, challenging mountain roads and amazing views, this is the route for you! I drove through completely by accident on my way to the Foothills Parkway but I’ve always wanted to drive the tail of the dragon and I got to its something you must do if in the area!
The Dragon is popular and internationally famous destination for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts since 1981. Known as America’s number 1 motorcycle and sports car road, famous for its 318 curves in 11 miles (18 km). The road earned its name from its curves being said to resemble a dragons tail. The stretch bears the street name Tapoco Road in North Carolina and Calderwood Highway in Tennessee and is signed entirely by US 129 (hidden SR 115).
Deals Gap, also known as Tail of the Dragon, is a portion of U.S. Route 129 in Blount County, Tennessee, situated in a gap in Swain County, North Carolina, United States. It was publicized as one of the most scenic drives in USA. This road is appealing to those who are looking for adrenaline rush and excitement. With hundreds of blind curves, long blind crests, and high degrees of camber, this road presents plenty of opportunities to leave the pavement both laterally, and longitudinally, and will provide a challenge even for the most seasoned drivers/bikers.
The Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest border the Dragon, there is no development along the 11-mile stretch, this adds to safety as well as natural beauty. The Dragon stretch of US 129 is double-lined as no passing (there are pull offs you can use to allow tailgaters to get ahead of you.) There are also pull-off points along the route for scenic overlooks. The road is certainly breathtaking, but has a fearsome reputation, speed limit was posted at 30 mph in 2002 and still in effect today. Trucks are also prohibited to enter the road due to previous accidents and incidents involving trucks and semi-tractor.
The best time to drive this road is between March and November. Winter months can be hard to predict. The weather on this zone is harsh and highly unpredictable and it does not take much time for the bright sun shine to change over to moderate to heavy snow fall. This road had a reputation for being extremely dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards, and driving under these conditions, can be challenging. This road is not for the faint hearted, but if you are looking for a little excitement and adrenaline pumping journey, dont miss this one.
Stay in this tree-house type 200 sq ft one room glamping cabin nestled in the backwoods with private deck. Attached to back deck as we live here too. Make simple meals or add non vegan bfast (5 night max) for extra fee. Escape and unplug to our Appalachian “Eden”.The view doesn’t get any better than this! 2 mi from paved rd, all need 5″ clearance, 1.2 mi of uneven gravel/dirt with potholes. May be too rough for cycles but can park trailer 1 mi at neighbors. Use ONLY our directions!
The space
Get off the beaten path and adventure to the backwoods to enjoy this glamping cabin with private deck overlooking a wild brook trout stream. Our pretty creek brings plenty of white noise. Sufficiently furnished to make simple meals or treat yourself to breakfast. Unplug, reconnect with each other, and let the stress flow away in this unique decorated room. Imagine the sound of the creek lulling you to sleep and waking up in a tree-house like setting. A hot non vegan breakfast can be added for $10 per person per day. Advance notice required.
Guest access
The tiny house is a separate structure, not just an extra bedroom. It is connected to our back deck with access to a gas grill outside your door. Feel free to relax in the owner’s large screened porch with seating area and dining table overlooking Squally Creek, or have privacy on your own deck overlooking this beautiful trout stream.
Other things to note
We are 2 miles from a paved road, no cell, WiFi or texting. All vehicles need 5″ clearance due to 1.2 miles of uneven gravel/dirt road with shallow pot holes and bumps. May be too rough for motorcycles – suggest parking trailer 1 mile away at neighbors.
DIRECTIONS: We cannot stress enough to use ONLY our directions. If you don’t it WILL lead to a washed-out road.
GAS, RESTAURANTS, STORES: We are a half hour from gas, grocery store and restaurants. Robbinsville and Graham county have no packaged liquor stores.
ON SITE: fish for wild brook trout, wade in the refreshing creek, hike for miles up the road, bring outdoor gear, 4-wheelers or dirt bikes to ride the backwood roads right outside your door. Or just let nature re-energize your soul by listening to the creek, finish a book, or reconnect without your “devices” or star gaze.
CLOSE TO: “Tail of the Dragon/Deals Gap” (40 min) or “Cherohala Skyway” (20 min) on your bucket list? We are close to both! Our county has the best “twisties”. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (20 min), Santeetlah Lake (10 min), fish Snowbird Creek (20 min) and several others, Fontana Lake and dam (40 min), marinas for boat rentals (30 min), several waterfalls, hiking trails and overlooks, Stecoah Gap AT Trail and birding trail (40 min), Smoky Mountain National Park/Cades Cove entrance (2 hrs), Nantahala whitewater rafting (40 min), Cheoah rafting (30 min), Slingshot and motorcycle rentals (40 min), casinos (40 min), caves (2 hrs), and several artisan shops in the county. Tourist maps are provided.
UNPLUG: No cell or WiFi at cabin. (Verizon is local carrier in town and WiFi provided at McDonalds.)
You are coming to the backwoods which has a hunting season using hunting dogs. Our woods have wild animals, venomous and non venomous snakes-avoid and do not provoke.Occasional chainsaw and 4-wheelers may be heard.
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The good times are guaranteed when you explore the area around the Quality Inn® in Andrews. Our hotel sits minutes from Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. You’ll have all the comforts you’re after at our hotel but you won’t have to spend too much to get them. After all, we know you want to save your money for the fun that’s ahead.
Adults on their own or with the kids along for the trip will want to get up early to get out the door to the nearby attractions. But our free hot breakfast provides a perfect reason to stay in the hotel for at least a short time longer. Then put the energy from our famous waffles to work to spur you on throughout your day. Try white water rafting or zip lining. Or for the truly adventurous, drive the nearby Tail of the Dragon, one of America’s craziest roads thanks to its 318 turns over 11 miles. Not up for it? We understand.
There are plenty of other options in our corner of North Carolina. For those with an adventurous palate, plenty of wineries are waiting. Find your new favorite wine at Calaboose Cellars or Ferncrest Winery. Beer lovers will want to head straight to Hoppy Trout Brewery (and your kids will love the brick oven pizza).
Tapoco Tavern offers incredible outside dining experiences adjacent to the world famous Cheoah River. Indoor and private room options for groups also available.
Open Daily from 11 am to 8 pm
Perched on the banks of the world famous Cheoah River, Tapoco Tavern combines the very best of classic pizzeria and all American flavors with a view and environment unmatched in all of Western Carolina. Order up a wood stone oven pizza for the family or indulge in the house favorite, “Bloody Mary” from our full-service bar. From steaks, burgers, salads, and local Carolina Mountain trout, there’s something for everyone.
Tapoco is situated on 120 acres in the lush mountain region of the Nantahala National Forest on the banks of the cascading Cheoah River. Adventures like hiking, rafting, kayaking, fishing, mountain biking, and winding roads are plentiful. After your day of adventure, experience sanctuary in one of our historic rooms with modern conveniences. Later on, enjoy riverside dining or an evening by the fire pits.
Down-home pit stop dispensing a range of Southern classics & BBQ in cozy, rustic quarters.
The Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort is located at Deals Gap, North Carolina and is nestled deep in the Great Smoky Mountains on the NC/TN state line. We are also known to many as Deals Gap, the home of “The Dragon” or simply by the locals as “the Gap”. We hope that our website will provide you with helpful & useful information about the resort and surrounding southern region of the Appalachian mountains.
The resort is open Early March (before Daytona Bike Week) through Mid November and provides you with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay overnight or a quick fuel up to get back on our twisty roads. With the world famous Dragon literally outside our doorstep, you can encounter one of the most technical & challenging roads in the country. Of course, people come to the attraction of 318 curves in 11 miles, but they soon discover all the best kept secrets of the many great roads leading you here. Like the land that time forgot, you will not find any driveways, gas stations, subdivisions, or mini malls. In place of all the hustle & bustle of big city life, you will find many scenic & beautiful places to stop & take time to soak in all the natural beauty that our area has to offer.
Without a doubt, you will have one of the best motorcycling experiences one could have. The staff here at DGMR is committed to helping you in planning & experiencing one of the best vacations that you will ever have!
In 2004, the addition of the Dragon’s Den Grill was added to the resort allowing 65 guests to sit, relax, and have a great meal. Four years later, the addition of the beer on tap was installed, so one can enjoy a cold beer with their meal if desired. Three TVs set on weather, news, & SPEED Networks are positioned around the Grill to keep you updated on current conditions & race day shouting at the tv. The grill is air conditioned for our hot summer days & heated for our cooler early spring and late fall travelers. We offer 6 speciality burgers (don’t worry regulars, you can still have our original Dragon burger too!), a daily deli, homemade desserts, & much more. We also offer window bar seating overlooking the parking lot and Wheelie hill, which are the best seats in the grill!! Come check it out!!
We serve breakfast starting at 8AM every morning, considered by many to be the best there is in the area. Lunch starts by 11AM, serving our famous dragon burger, chicken, BBQ, sandwiches, and many more items available on the menu, along with daily specials.
If you want to ride the same roads as the Prohibition Era moonshiners, put the “Moonshiner 28” run on your touring calendar. This 103-mile route begins at US 129 at the “Tail of the Dragon,” and meanders southeastward through North Carolina and into upstate South Carolina. In contrast to The Dragon’s non-stop twists and turns, Moonshiner 28 offers a 55-mph speed limit for the majority of your ride.
As you cruise along, you’ll encounter a nice mix of twists and turns, sweeping arcs, and memorable scenery. Shortly after you begin the trip, for example, you’ll arrive at the massive Fontana Dam. Here, you’ll enjoy a bird’s eye view of beautiful Fontana Lake and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Heading toward Highlands in southern North Carolina, you’ll see the notable Cullasaja Falls that cascades downward in a 250-foot drop. Further along, you’ll encounter Dry Falls, a popular destination for travelers of all ages. Enjoy an easy hike from the parking lot, and wind your way downward to the impressive 75-foot waterfall. For an experience you won’t forget, stand under the roaring falls and take in the sights and sounds.
Finally, Moonshiner 28 takes you on a leisurely trek through Georgia and South Carolina, with the quiet town of Walhalla marking the end of your trip. Throughout your ride, you’ll find basic to super-nice accommodations and an enticing assortment of antique and craft shops. If you’re looking for a hearty meal to fuel your travels, you’ll find plenty of options to suite your tastes.
Hoppy Trout Brewing Co. began as an obsession with home brewing. Years of experimentation with ingredients and development of recipes prepared Brewmaster, Tom Rodeck, for brewing on a commercial scale. Hoppy Trout is a community brewery that mainely brews beer for consumption in the taproom, however this specialty, small batch beer can also be found on tap in a select few restaurants and bottle shops. Over the years Hoppy Trout beers have continued to garner accolades for their superb flavors, unique beers, and one-of-a-kind styles that set it apart from other breweries .
In addition to its distinguished beer Hoppy Trout’s kitchen features a custom made Sicilian style brick oven that bakes unique and delicious pizzas. The secret to this savory pizza is twofold-Hoppy Trout makes fresh homemade pizza dough daily and uses only fresh ingredients. In addition, customers will delight in savory panini sandwiches, fresh salads, and an array of diverse and delectable appetizers.
Hoppy Trout is not only a brewery and restaurant, but a place where locals and visitors alike come together for community and fun. Events during the week include a weekly Trivia Night where patrons test their wits and compete for prizes every Wednesday at 6:30pm. On Thursdays, the beer cascades from the taps a reduced rate of $4 per serving all day long! Other events such as comedy shows, home brewing competitions, and holiday parties makes Hoppy Trout a great place to visit for the whole family.
