We love to ride motorcycles and first discovered this area touring on two wheels. Tired of the flat and straight roads of Florida, we returned each year to slay the Dragon at Deals Gap and ride the more leisurely Cherohala Skyway and Blue Ridge Parkway (a less grueling but just as breathtaking adventure). We are now fortunate to own a mountain getaway that we can share here with you. Whether you prefer two wheels, four wheels, or just your own 2 legs, you are sure to enjoy the many local activities. We share a few of our favorites along with approximate mileage from the property.
 
The Dragon (9 miles)
People travel near and far to experience the excitement and challenge of the Dragon, considered one of the world’s best roads to conquer by motorcycle or sports car. Containing 318 hairpin “S” turns in just 11 miles, this section of US Highway 129 near the Tennessee/North Carolina state line is sure to provide memorable thrills. 

Stop by the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort www.dealsgap.com for souvenirs, lunch, gas, or a look at the Tree of Shame. You can also sign and hang your club T-shirt on the restaurant ceiling.  Enjoy the challenge, drive carefully, and please stay on your side of the road (and watch for those that don’t)!

When you finish slaying the Dragon continue your ride down to Tellico Plains, TN and take a small side road (#210) to view the picturesque Bald Falls. Then head back via Hwy 165 to Hwy 143 and enjoy the sweeping vistas of the Cherohala Skyway.  For more route information visit www.tailofthedragon.com.

Cherohala Skyway (7 miles)
The Skyway is about 40 miles long and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to travel allowing for stops. It runs between Robbinsville NC along Highway 143 to Tellico Plains TN reaching elevations over a mile high!

Whitewater (varies 5 to 20 miles)
Both beginners and experienced paddlers can enjoy the whitewater of the Nantahala River (Class II-III). You can rent rafts, kayaks, canoes, or ducks (inflatable kayaks) from a variety of outfitters. The Nantahala Outdoor Center is a nearby choice and offers a nice view of the falls and access to the Appalachian Trail for a day hike.

The more adventurous can tackle the Cheoah River which opens Class IV (out of V) rapids on specified dates coordinated with the release of waters from the Cheoah Dam. Contact the Cheoah Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service at 828-479-6431 for more details. You can also drive a bit further to the Ocoee River, home of the 1996 Summer Olympic Whitewater Event.

Santeetlah Lake (2 miles)
This 2800 acre lake offers a multitude of water sports and 76 miles of shoreline, with a large portion owned by the forest service. Enjoy swimming, water skiing, and boating, with boat and jet skis available for rent at the nearby marina. Fish for record sized bass and walleye along with crappie, bream and lake trout. Head to nearby streams for fly fishing.
 
We enjoy a nice dinner and adult beverages at Blue Water Mountain Lodge. They also offer a dockside menu on the weekends during the summer months.

Cherokee (47 miles)
Visit the Cherokee Indian Reservation or shop in the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a recreation of an 18th century Indian town. Harrah’s Casino offers gambling and is also located in Cherokee.

The Appalachian Trail (5 miles)
This Scenic trail runs from Maine to Georgia with some trekking the full hike in 4 to 5 months. Graham County is home to about 29 miles of the Trail with elevation ranging from 1,725 to 4,062 feet. The trail can be accessed from a variety of points including nearby Yellow Creek Road.

Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
One of the last “Old Growth Forests” in the eastern US, this forest contains giant trees over 500 years old, 150 feet tall, and 20 feet in circumference.

Blue Ridge Parkway (49 miles)
The most visited portion of America’s National Park System offers incredible views year round but especially during the fall when the trees display their spectacular autumn colors. 

Graham County
Still looking for more great area adventures?  Be sure to check out www.grahamcountytravel.com for more ideas and useful maps.

When you conquer the local area just venture out on a day trip with convenient access to  Asheville and the Biltmore Estate (95 miles), Chattanooga TN (128 miles), Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, and Knoxville (65 miles).