This week marks my second trip to the Great Smoky Mountains in the past two years, and after putting more than 1,000 miles on my Indian Roadmaster exploring these incredible roads, I can honestly say I have never ridden anywhere that compares to East Tennessee and western North Carolina.
I’ve been fortunate enough to ride motorcycles in many parts of the country over the years, but the Smokies are simply in a class by themselves. Every day has been another adventure, another scenic overlook, another winding mountain road, and another reminder that motorcycling is about far more than simply getting from one place to another.
Today I made my second ride of this trip through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, traveling from Pigeon Forge through the park and into Gatlinburg. Even though I had already ridden this route earlier in the week, it felt like an entirely new experience. The weather was different, the lighting changed the landscape, wildlife appeared around unexpected corners, and the mountain views never stopped taking my breath away.
More Than Just the Tail of the Dragon
Most riders come here because they’ve heard about the famous Tail of the Dragon with its legendary 318 curves in 11 miles. It’s an incredible road and certainly worth riding.
But after spending an entire week exploring this area, I’ve realized the Tail of the Dragon is only one small part of what makes this region so special.
After riding more than 1,000 miles through East Tennessee and western North Carolina during my second Smokies trip in two years, I put together this guide highlighting the incredible motorcycle roads that make this region my favorite riding destination in America.
The Foothills Parkway offers breathtaking panoramic views that seem to stretch forever. The Cherohala Skyway combines sweeping curves with high-elevation mountain scenery that rivals anything I’ve seen in the United States. Moonshiner 28 is packed with twisties and incredible scenery, while the roads through Great Smoky Mountains National Park are perfect for riders who appreciate nature as much as they appreciate motorcycles.
There are enough spectacular roads here to spend weeks riding and still not experience everything the Smokies have to offer.
The Secret Is Slowing Down
If this trip has taught me one thing, it’s this:
The best way to experience the Smokies is to slow down.
This isn’t a place to prove how fast you can ride. It’s a place to appreciate the journey.
Pull into the overlooks. Watch the rivers rushing beside the road. Stop and photograph the mountains. Take time to enjoy the small towns. Talk with fellow riders. You’ll create memories that will last far longer than any fast ride through a set of curves.
If someone comes up behind you wanting to ride faster, simply pull over when it’s safe and let them pass. Ride at your own pace and never let anyone pressure you into riding beyond your comfort level.
A Message From a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Representing injured motorcyclists has taught me that too many crashes happen because riders try to keep up with someone else or ride beyond their abilities.
Crossing the centerline, entering curves too fast, or riding aggressively on unfamiliar roads can have life-changing consequences.
The Smokies reward patience, good judgment, and respect for the road.
Your goal shouldn’t be to set a record.
Your goal should be to return home with incredible memories and a desire to come back again.
I’ll Be Back
This is my second visit in two years, and I can already tell it won’t be my last.
After more than 1,000 miles this week, I still haven’t ridden every famous road in the area, and I already have a list of places I want to revisit the next time I’m here.
If you’ve never experienced the Great Smoky Mountains on a motorcycle, add it to your bucket list.
Bring your camera.
Take your time.
Ride your own ride.
Stay in your lane.
I truly believe this is the finest motorcycle riding destination in America, and after spending a week here, I understand why so many riders return year after year.
I know I will.
About the Author
Norman Gregory Fernandez is a California motorcycle accident attorney, lifelong rider, and founder of the Biker Law Blog. With nearly 30 years of representing injured motorcyclists and decades of riding experience throughout the United States, he combines real-world riding knowledge with legal insight to help motorcyclists ride safer and understand their rights. During this trip, Norman spent a week riding more than 1,000 miles through East Tennessee and western North Carolina, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, Tail of the Dragon, Foothills Parkway, Cherohala Skyway, Moonshiner 28, and other legendary roads. When he’s not representing injured riders, you’ll usually find him planning his next motorcycle adventure.
Ride Smart. Stay in Your Lane. Ride to Come Home.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident anywhere in California, contact The Law Office of Norman G. Fernandez for a free consultation. With nearly 30 years of experience representing injured riders, we’re committed to protecting motorcyclists and fighting for the compensation they deserve.
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