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As 2021 comes to an end we see the weather changing with colder nights, but the days temps look to be moderate in the 70s. There is still plenty of time to get out and enjoy the area roads before winter sets in. We do have some colder weather gear at the Tail of the Dragon T-shirt Shack. Just look for the Big Metal Dragon.

Next week the forecast is for rain nearly every day. This is a typical summer weather pattern which brings widely scattered rain to the area in the afternoons. Notice the forecast is usually less than 50% which means many areas will not get the short lived thunderstorms. Plan on touring in the morning with a break in the mid-afternoon. Storms usually clear after an hour to allow you some nice weather in the late afternoon.

Remembering those who gave so much………Thanks to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) for this portrait of the Riderless Horse.

We are open for the 2021 year at the Tail of the Dragon T-shirt Shack. Plan to stop in and get a photo in front of Calestar, our huge metal dragon.

The weather is moderating with decent riding temps. We are falling into the summer weather pattern when the online weather services predict rain on many days. Be aware that if you look closely at the predictions they show chances of rain BELOW 50%. When the chance of rain is BELOW 50% it is likely to be a nice day with possible scattered showers usually in the mid afternoon that quickly clear. Under 50% chance and you can still have good riding conditions most of the day.

Our friend Neale Bayly paid us a visit last year when he brought a custom KTM Super Duke 1290 to play around for a few days. SEE HIS STORY HERE 

The weather forecasters missed again. Saturday night the area got several inches of snow. 
It’s pretty, but makes travel on local roads dangerous. It should be gone in a day or two with temps moving up into the 50s.

Looks like a good chance to get your winter fix in at the Dragon this coming weekend. High temps in the 50s with sunshine for Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Don’t miss this warm break before the snows return.

The Tail of the Dragon T-shirt Shack is planning to reopen in early March, but as usual it will be dependent on the weather conditions. We need a groundhog to help us predict.

The weather has shifted back into winter for the western North Carolina mountains. If you are looking for snow you can probably find it in any of the higher elevations. You might find decent road conditions in the lower elevations, but it is hit or miss under the current weather patterns. Be warned that freezing temps are present most nights and roads might be “chancy” until afternoon. Some roads such as the Tail of the Dragon (US 129) and the Cherohala Skyway remain open all winter unless extreme conditions necessitate closings. Other roads such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, US 441 Cherokee to Gatlinburg, and the Foothills Parkway can be closed at just the hint of snow and ice.

If you plan to visit the area in the winter months be sure the check the weather and make some smart decisions. The Tail of the Dragon T-shirt Shack will be opening in March but dates are dependent on the weather at the time.

January 2, 2021

The weather has moderated and today temps are expected into the upper 60s! The next 4-5 days looks good too with highs near 50 and clear skies. Possible snow showers Friday night then temps on Saturday and Sunday back up near 50. Lots of traffic today taking advantage of the good weather.