PLAN YOUR TRIP

When to Visit

Tail of the Dragon is 318 curves in 11 miles on Federal Highway US 129 and is free for the public to enjoy year-round. This legendary route is carved through the rugged mountains of the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains. Most temporary closures due to downed trees, rockslides, or accidents will be posted on tailofthedragon.com and Facebook.

April through October is the prime season to experience Tail of the Dragon and the surrounding roads. March and November can be unpredictable, especially in higher elevations along the Cherohala Skyway, Blue Ridge Parkway, and US 441 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Fall colors highlight the picturesque Great Smoky Mountain National Park and usually peak in early October, but can vary slightly depending on weather and elevation.

Winter months bring cold temperatures and occasional snow, but there are warm days suitable for rides. The positive of the winter season is that cars often have the road to themselves.

Where to Stay

There is a wide variety of accommodations in the area, ranging from basic tent camping to exclusive mountaintop resorts. The Tennessee side of the Smokies provides more options for those interested in tourist activities and nightlife, while the North Carolina side is more rural—ideal if you want to escape the crowds. We call the North Carolina section “the quiet side of the Smokies.”

Bring your Group

All groups are welcome at the Tail of the Dragon—from small families to large rallies, we’re proud to be a destination for countless memories. Events are planned, organized, and conducted by private individuals or groups. Tail of the Dragon simply acts as an online listing for the events and a centralized location for attendees to gather.

What can Tail of the Dragon provide for your group? In addition to our event page boasting views and attendance, we can make custom group signs and stickers.

If you see an event posted, don’t let it stop you from planning your trip. Most events are informal gatherings and will not impact your visit.

Rider / Driver Resources

Visiting Tail of the Dragon and its surrounding roads is a must-do bucket list adventure. Planning your trip is simple with the help of these businesses and resources. For more tips and tricks to master the Tail of the Dragon, check out the link below.

YOUR SAFETY

Tail of the Dragon is a US highway, open to the public 24/7, with a speed limit of 30 mph. The most important safety tip is to stay in your lane — law enforcement will ticket any vehicle that crosses or touches the double yellow line. The goal is to embrace the technical challenge of tight turns, not to make the road more dangerous by “straightening out” the curves.

Cell phone reception is limited along the route, so devices that share your GPS location are recommended for solo rides. We also strongly advise letting someone know you are here. These mountain roads see light traffic at times, and going over the mountain alone can be dangerous if you’re unprepared.

Because of poor cell service, emergency response times may be delayed. Always prioritize safety, and consider carrying a fire extinguisher for those cherished vehicles that sometimes overheat.

EXPLORE THE CURVES

Online Brochure

View and print the current Tail of the Dragon Map Brochure.

Would you like a brochure mailed to you? A Tail of the Dragon brochure is mailed with every purchase at our online store.  

Get Your Photos

Order your Tail of the Dragon photos from Killboy.com, the GOAT, and the original photographer at the Dragon. Killboy has photographers stationed along pull-offs throughout the 11 miles.  All pictures are uploaded to the Killboy.com website within 24 hours for your review and purchase.