The Smoky Mountain Loop motorcycle ride is a 143-mile adventure that combines five of the top touring roads in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. This scenic loop offers riders a chance to experience the breathtaking vistas, challenging curves, and rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains region.
Route Overview
The Smoky Mountain Loop consists of five distinct routes:
- US 441: A 38-mile route from Cherokee to Gatlinburg, climbing to over 5,000 feet elevation at New Found Gap before descending to 1,500 feet at Sugarlands Visitor Center, offering unmatched mountain views and fabulous touring.
- TN 73 (Little River Road): A 33-mile route winding westward through scenic rock overhangs along the Little River.
- Foothills Parkway: A 33-mile route along the ridge line with overlooks providing panoramic views of the Smokies.
- Tail of the Dragon: An 11-mile stretch with 318 curves, known for its twisting mountain pavement.
- Moonshiner 28: Completing the loop, this route takes you back to Cherokee.
Accommodations
The Smoky Mountain Loop offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular choices include:
| Accommodation | Location |
|---|---|
| Highland Manor Inn | Maryville, TN |
| Luxbury Inn | Maryville, TN |
| A Holiday Motel | Maggie Valley, NC |
| Grand Vista Inn & Suites | Vonore, TN |
| Teaberry Hill RV Park | Robbinsville, NC |
| Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort | N.C./Tenn. border |
| Moonshine Creek Campground | near Sylva |
| The Great Outdoors RV Resort | Franklin |
Challenging Curves and Vistas
The Smoky Mountain Loop is renowned for its challenging curves and breathtaking vistas. Some of the highlights include:
Tail of the Dragon
This 11-mile stretch of US 129 is known for its 318 curves, making it a true test of a rider’s skills and a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Foothills Parkway
The Foothills Parkway offers panoramic mountain vistas and slight curves, providing a more relaxed riding experience while still offering stunning scenery.
US 441
This majestic mountain road features a mix of twisties and scenic vistas, offering riders a chance to experience the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Moonshiner 28
Completing the loop, this route takes riders through breathtaking vistas, past waterfalls, and along remote mountain lakes, providing a truly memorable riding experience.
Safety and Regulations
Riders on the Smoky Mountain Loop must be aware of the following safety and regulatory requirements:
- Helmet Law: All motorcycle riders and pillions must wear an approved helmet and have lights on at all times in North Carolina and Tennessee.
Additional Tips and Resources
To ensure a safe and enjoyable ride, riders should consider the following tips and resources:
- Road Closures: Check the NPS website and Twitter for road and facility closures before planning your trip.
- Tail of the Dragon Store: Find swag for all the great roads including Smoky Mountain Loop, Foothills Parkway, Cherohala Skyway, Tail of the Dragon, Moonshiner 28, Devils Triangle, Six Gap, and Diamondback.