Written Directions
Just south of Lake Junaluska, NC, off of US 23 (exit 103), take "US 19 South" as it takes you west to the town of Cherokee. At the end of this route you will run into route 441 which goes north in to Tennessee or back down south to "The Hellbender 28" or you can take 74 west for a trip to Deals Gap.
Scenery
The scenery along this route is some of the prettiest I have ever seen, with the road carved out of the mountain. The mountain is so close to the edge of the road if you have a passenger they could probably reach out and touch the rock. There is water at the bottom of the valley you are traveling through for most of the trip. For part of this road you will enter the Cherokee Nation's reservation. It carries you also through Maggie Valley which is worth the trip just by itself.
Drive Enjoyment
the road because of being cut through from the mountainside is narrow, and the top speed is about 40 at best. Some of the turns are difficult so if you are going through this route as a warm up to riding the Tail of the Dragon this would get you in the mood. Good twisties with large elevation changes along the way.
Tourism Opportunities
Cherokee itself offers a full up casino, and all the amenities that would involve. Getting gas along this route is chancy at best. If you have a thirsty bike it would be best to fill up at Lunaska Lake first. There is a gas station at Cherokee. Maggie Valley is a really nice tourist stop with camping, and food as well as shopping in a beautiful setting.
Motorcycle Road Additional info
- View the weather forecast for this area from Yahoo weather .