{"id":21296,"date":"2021-10-28T11:55:54","date_gmt":"2021-10-28T15:55:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/?p=21296"},"modified":"2025-10-09T09:43:47","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T13:43:47","slug":"tail-of-the-dragon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/","title":{"rendered":"The Tail of the Dragon: an epic destination"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a55be060e56d\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a55be060e56d\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Tail_of_the_Dragon_318_curves_in_11_miles\" >Tail of the Dragon: 318 curves in 11 miles<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Note_that_this_is_a_10-day_itinerary\" >Note that this is a 10-day itinerary.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_1_Tail_of_the_Dragon_departure\" >Day 1: Tail of the Dragon departure<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_220_miles\" >Distance: 220 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_2_we_are_approaching\" >Day 2: we are approaching!<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_300_miles\" >Distance: 300 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_3_Finally_the_Blue_Ridge_Parkway\" >Day 3: Finally, the Blue Ridge Parkway!<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_225_miles\" >Distance: 225 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_4_Enjoy_the_Blue_Ridge_Parkway\" >Day 4: Enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway!<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_295_miles\" >Distance: 295 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_5_Tail_of_the_Dragon\" >Day 5: Tail of the Dragon<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_187_miles\" >Distance: 187 miles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Receiving_the_Zox_Zenith_helmet_felt_like_Christmas_had_come_early\" >Receiving the Zox Zenith helmet felt like Christmas had come early !<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Test_drive_of_the_2021_Sportster_S_a_redesigned_look\" >Test drive of the 2021 Sportster S; a redesigned look!<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Yamaha_celebrates_its_60th_anniversary\" >Yamaha celebrates its 60th anniversary<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_6_the_beginning_of_the_end\" >Day 6: the beginning of the end<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_243_miles\" >Distance: 243 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_7_the_return\" >Day 7: the return<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_200_miles\" >Distance: 200 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_8_From_the_highway%E2%80%A6\" >Day 8: From the highway&#8230;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_245_miles\" >Distance: 245 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_9_a_last_day_to_relax\" >Day 9: a last day to relax<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_227_miles\" >Distance: 227 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Day_10_Back_home\" >Day 10: Back home<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/tail-of-the-dragon\/#Distance_235_miles\" >Distance: 235 miles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tail_of_the_Dragon_318_curves_in_11_miles\"><\/span>Tail of the Dragon: 318 curves in 11 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>Exactly two years ago, I was on my way back from the best motorcycle trip of my life.<\/p>\n<p>Tired, but with a heart full of joy and a head full of memories, I crossed the border back to Canada, already nostalgic about the landscapes I had just explored on my motorcycle.<\/p>\n<p>If you listen to the Chicks and Machines Podcast in french (and if you don&#8217;t, what are you waiting for? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=r3Qi5udqLfU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">CLICK HERE<\/a> to find out!), you&#8217;ve already heard me speak passionately about my trip to <a href=\"https:\/\/tailofthedragon.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">the Tail of the Dragon<\/a> via the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.blueridgeparkway.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Blue Ridge Parkway<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>I promised you and today I&#8217;m delivering the goods: here&#8217;s my itinerary, all set up and on a silver platter.<\/p>\n<p>If you are planning a motorcycle trip to the United States from Quebec, when the borders open again, I strongly recommend that you follow the directions below to live the adventure of a lifetime.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Note_that_this_is_a_10-day_itinerary\"><\/span>Note that this is a 10-day itinerary.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Please note that my itinerary is for a motorcycle trip; if you are more of a luxury lodging type, you will have to modify the route to allow for more sleeping stops![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20388&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1_Tail_of_the_Dragon_departure\"><\/span>Day 1: Tail of the Dragon departure<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_220_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 220 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>On your first day, you&#8217;ll be exploring the famous mountain roads of the Adirondacks, lucky you!<\/p>\n<p>Head down to Plattsburgh and then take 3 West (which becomes 30) to Speculator.\u00a0 Then take 8 and 10 south until you get to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adirondackexperience.com\/hiking\/bray-house-falls-a-k-a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Brayhouse Falls Potholers<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>This is a little-known area of the Adirondacks where people stop for a picnic or spontaneously pitch their tents here and there along the stream. Here, waterfalls form natural whirlpools and it is quiet.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cnyhiking.com\/Potholers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">To see pictures and more precise directions to find the camping spots, it&#8217;s HERE<\/a>.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20390&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_2_we_are_approaching\"><\/span>Day 2: we are approaching!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_300_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 300 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In this third day, we begin to be really feverish, because we approach the Blue Ridge Parkway. Leave early, however, because it is one of the longest rides of the trip!<\/p>\n<p>Head south to Harrisburg, then southwest to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/shen\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Here you&#8217;ll find a few campsites along the highway.<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_3_Finally_the_Blue_Ridge_Parkway\"><\/span>Day 3: Finally, the Blue Ridge Parkway!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_225_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 225 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<blockquote><p>This is it!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>Day 3 is the magic day: it is the day when we finally reach the famous Blue Ridge Parkway.<\/p>\n<p>Before leaving Shenandoah National Park, I recommend stopping for a guided tour of the<a href=\"https:\/\/luraycaverns.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\"> Luray Caverns<\/a>, a network of prehistoric caves 48 meters underground.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20425&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]Imposing limestone columns and folded walls, together with the temperature of 53\u00b0F and the total silence &#8211; besides the drops falling from the stalactites &#8211; create a mysterious and quite fascinating atmosphere.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20424&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]Next, head to <a href=\"https:\/\/weasieskitchen.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Weasie&#8217;s Kitchen<\/a> in Waynesboro for a big (BIG!) American-style dinner: their big pancakes and fried chicken are amazing.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20433&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]At this point in the trip, we really feel like we&#8217;re in the American South. Not only is the flora starting to change, but the people are extremely friendly.<\/p>\n<p>The Southern Hospitality is definitely not a myth! It makes you want to stay forever and become friends with everyone!<\/p>\n<p>Now that you have a full belly, you&#8217;re ready to hit the Blue Ridge Parkway. Yippee![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20423&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]<a href=\"https:\/\/www.blueridgeparkway.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">The Blue Ridge Parkway<\/a> is a 470 miles long road atop a mountain range that runs through Virginia and North Carolina. There is only one lane in each direction, and almost no cross roads.<\/p>\n<p>The scenery on either side of the road is breathtaking, and you really feel on top of the world. Beware, the weather is notorious for its unpredictability.<\/p>\n<p>Often it was so foggy that we could barely see a few feet in front of us. So the lesson is: plan clothes for all kinds of weather![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20417&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]Most importantly, before you head out, stop at the information booth at the entrance to get a map of the area.<\/p>\n<p>We particularly appreciated the map that showed where the gas stations were located, as you have to take one of the (very rare) side roads and go down the mountain range every time you want to fill up.<\/p>\n<p>It is thus necessary to foresee well these stops![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20428&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]For the night, stop at <a href=\"https:\/\/floydfamilycampground.com\/wp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Chantilly Farm<\/a>, a campground with tent sites and also small rustic cabins.<\/p>\n<p>The owner was very helpful; with his heart of gold, he offered us a cabin instead of a campsite, as we were soaked and wanted to sleep dry and dry our items. He was so generous and welcoming that I had to mention it in my itinerary![\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_Enjoy_the_Blue_Ridge_Parkway\"><\/span>Day 4: Enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_295_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 295 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Today, we enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway. If the weather is not good, don&#8217;t worry, the weather can change from one minute to another in this microclimate.<\/p>\n<p>If you leave early enough, you&#8217;ll have time to stop at one of the super interesting historical sites along the way.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20415&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]For example, at milepost 190, you will find the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/places\/puckett-cabin.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Puckette Cabin<\/a>. This house belonged to legendary southern midwife Orlean Hawks Puckett, who gave birth to 24 children, none of whom survived, tragically.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, this extraordinary woman assisted other women through more than 1,000 deliveries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20429&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]For the night, choose one of the many campsites in Whittier, North Carolina. Many are owned by Native Americans, so this is a great opportunity to support their businesses.<\/p>\n<p>Sleeping in Whittier will put you about an hour away from your next destination: the Tail of the Dragon!<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re feeling particularly energetic, continue about 1 hour and 15 minutes west to <a href=\"https:\/\/ironhorsenc.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">the Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge<\/a>, a western-inspired lodge that offers both camping and luxury cabins.<\/p>\n<p>This will bring you even closer to your destination for tomorrow.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20427&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_5_Tail_of_the_Dragon\"><\/span>Day 5: Tail of the Dragon<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_187_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 187 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wake up early, because today will be a great day! Plus, you&#8217;ll be sleeping at the same campsite (FINALLY!), so you can leave everything in place and leave with only the essentials.<\/p>\n<p>Hop on 74 west and 28 west to Deals Gap, the entrance to the Tail of the Dragon. Here you&#8217;ll find a small motel, a souvenir store, and LOTS of cars and enthusiasts.<\/p>\n<p>The Tree of Shame is a tree on which pieces of equipment from accidents on the Tail of the Dragon are placed.<\/p>\n<p>It is a funny decoration that also serves as a tool to raise awareness that we are about to navigate a potentially dangerous route and that, despite the temptation to go fast, vigilance is required![\/vc_column_text][vc_cta h2=&#8221;Articles you may also like&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"penci-entry-title entry-title grid-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Receiving_the_Zox_Zenith_helmet_felt_like_Christmas_had_come_early\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/zox-zenith-helmet-test\/\">Receiving the Zox Zenith helmet felt like Christmas had come early !<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"penci-entry-title entry-title grid-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Test_drive_of_the_2021_Sportster_S_a_redesigned_look\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/test-2021-sportster-s-look\/\">Test drive of the 2021 Sportster S; a redesigned look!<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"penci-entry-title entry-title grid-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Yamaha_celebrates_its_60th_anniversary\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/motorcycles-en\/60th-anniversary-yamaha\/\">Yamaha celebrates its 60th anniversary<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>[\/vc_cta][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20432&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]You have finally reached the ultimate destination of the trip, and the furthest point: the Tail of the Dragon.<\/p>\n<p>This mythical road, visited by people from all over the world, is a road made of 318 curves on 11 miles. Think you&#8217;ve seen a winding road before? You haven&#8217;t seen anything yet!<\/p>\n<p>The origin of this road is quite fascinating: it used to be a natural bison crossing. The Cherokee Nation passed through here with their animals, mostly bison, for hundreds of years.<\/p>\n<p>The road was also a place where they hid from the oppression and violence of the Indian Removal Act of 1830.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20431&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]Nowadays, the road is mainly used as a playground for motorcycle and car enthusiasts. You see a lot of vehicles arriving in trailers, since they are not legal on the roads, and there is always movement.<\/p>\n<p>Despite this, I was able to really enjoy the ride at my own pace without being pressured to go faster. People were simply passing me by.<\/p>\n<p>Across the road, photographers position themselves in strategic curves to take great souvenir photos, which can later be found and purchased on their websites.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20408&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]All in all, the Tail of the Dragon is a very fun and breathtaking route, but it is also very historically charged, and all this creates a real sense of humility and reverence, not only for the beauty of the scenery but also for the history of the place.<\/p>\n<p>When you exit the Tail of the Dragon, you&#8217;ll be in Tennessee. Head down 360 South to Tellico Plains, and then take the <a href=\"https:\/\/cherohala.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Cherohala Skyway east to Whittier<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>This route was particularly memorable for me; I thought it was the perfect combination of the grand, mountainous scenery of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the tight curves of the Tail of the Dragon.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20419&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]The Cherohala Skyway is not as well known as the other two, but I swear it&#8217;s worth it; don&#8217;t miss the opportunity to experience it![\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_6_the_beginning_of_the_end\"><\/span>Day 6: the beginning of the end<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_243_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 243 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Sadly, all good things must come to an end; it&#8217;s time to head back home. I recommend doing the same steps in reverse, so you can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway again. In reverse, it feels like a completely new road!<\/p>\n<p>For sleeping, I highly recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.willvillebikecamp.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Willville Bike Camp<\/a>, a very cozy place designed especially for bikers![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20414&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]The owner and his buddies have fun meeting motorcycle travelers from all over the world and welcome all campers with great hospitality. You immediately feel at home here.<\/p>\n<p>I had a lot of fun playing with their dogs and I particularly liked the huge collective campfire they make every night, around which campers exchange all kinds of anecdotes and travel stories.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20420&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]I would have loved to stay a few more days and it is with a heavy heart that we continued our journey.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_7_the_return\"><\/span>Day 7: the return<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_200_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 200 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Continue northeast along the mountain ranges. I recommend a sleepover at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/shen\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Shenandoah National Park<\/a> to savor the last moments of mountainous roads before we hit the highway all the way home.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_8_From_the_highway%E2%80%A6\"><\/span>Day 8: From the highway&#8230;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_245_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 245 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It&#8217;s time for the slightly less interesting part of the trip; Highway 81. Head north and play my favorite game, &#8220;we avoid the 53-foot billions driving like crazy on 81.&#8221;[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20418&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]We took a campsite in Paupack Township, Pennsylvania, but it wasn&#8217;t neat enough for me to write about here.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_9_a_last_day_to_relax\"><\/span>Day 9: a last day to relax<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_227_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 227 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One last trip on the highway: go to Lake George to have fun in this little town full of kitschy tourist attractions. However, it has its charm! We stayed in a small motel (enough camping), ate a hot meal (finally!) and relaxed for our last night.<\/p>\n<p>I recommend the bourbon tasting at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lgdisco.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-schema-attribute=\"\">Lake George Distilling Co.<\/a> Yum![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20416&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_10_Back_home\"><\/span>Day 10: Back home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Distance_235_miles\"><\/span>Distance: 235 miles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>At this point, you have the choice to follow the 87 north to Quebec, or to make a small detour westward to return through the Adirondacks. For a small difference of 100km, I strongly recommend option B; the road is so pretty in the mountains!<\/p>\n<p>And here you are, back home, 10 days later.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Learn from my mistakes!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>I sincerely hope that this itinerary will be useful to many readers. I wish you so much to live what I lived!<\/p>\n<p>If I were to do this trip again (in fact, I definitely plan to do it again), there is one thing I would do differently: I would take at least 14 days, and ideally more.<\/p>\n<p>I regretted not being able to stop more along the way to visit, relax, take pictures, and discover local products and restaurants.<\/p>\n<p>On paper, an average of 250 miles per day is fine; but on a motorcycle, with breaks for gas and fuel, it can easily take 10-11 hours. So I would leave myself more days to reduce my days to 125-185 miles and take more time.<\/p>\n<p>Also, I would have liked to stay in the Tail of the Dragon area for a few days so I could do it more than once. I&#8217;ve only been there once, whereas some people stay there and do it over and over for days, and I find that a very winning formula!<\/p>\n<p>Going all that way to do the Tail of the Dragon only once was not very strategic on my part![\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;20430&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; add_caption=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column_text]So there you have it, I&#8217;ve summed up my best motorcycle trip ever and I hope it inspires you to follow my itinerary, or at least my itinerary will inspire yours!<\/p>\n<p>Let me know if you decide to go; I want to know in the comments![\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;- Em&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:div|font_size:40|text_align:left&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Yesteryear%3A%22regular%22|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Tail of the Dragon: 318 curves in 11 miles&hellip;","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":21300,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1771,4421],"tags":[3236,3732,3235,1858,3237],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21296"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/35"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21296"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21296\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21300"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21296"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21296"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chicksandmachines.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21296"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}