Day 20. Tellico Plains, Tennessee.
Our route today took in some of the 'best' motorcycling roads in the US - Moonshiner28, the infamous 'Tail of the Dragon' (316 curves in 11 miles), and the Cherohala Skyway. We'd heard that the 'Dragon' can get very busy so decided to set off early.
At 8 o'clock we were ready to go. Unfortunately, the Great Smoky Mountains were living up to their name, and as we headed up Moonshiner28 the hills were covered in a thick mist. We were beginning to doubt whether the early start had been worth it. However, as we climbed the sky began the clear and by the time we had reached the foot of the 'Dragon' the sun was out.
We pulled into the car-park just before 9 o'clock. There were already quite a lot of bikes there, but most we're still having breakfast. So, after a quick stop we headed up the 'Dragon', twisting and turning all the way. We headed off together, but not surprisingly, one of us made it to the end much quicker than the other. The early start had paid off after all, and we got a pretty clear run, so could enjoy the bends with out getting delayed / feeling hassled* (*delete as applicable). We then turned straight round and did it all again in reverse - 22 miles in total and 632 bends - quite an experience. The recommended speed around some corners was just 15mph, but there wasn't much evidence that the advice was being followed!
Back at the car park we then spent an hour or so chatting with the other motorcyclists, getting something to drink, and purchasing the all important sticker to add to the top box. By now it was much busier and the car-park was full of bikes of all types, sports cars (from corvettes to E-types), and three wheeler kit cars.
Time to carry on our way. So, we headed down to Robbinsville and joined the Cherohala Skyway. More twisties for another 50 miles - but not as extreme as the 'Dragon'.
After a 120 miles of continuous bends today we arrived at our destination - Hunts Lodge Motorcycle Campsite, Tellico Plains.
Have just walked into town to see the preparations for tomorrow's eclipse. Should be an interesting day.