I was supposed to go there this summer but never made it quite that far south. I did find the back of the dragon off I81 in vVirginia a couple of hours north. It goes from Marion VA to Tazewell. It's 32 miles long and 3 times the curves. Very little traffic too. Highly recommend if your heading towards Tail of the Dragon. Maybe next year I'll make it.

 

Imho there are much better roads to ride and for scenery. The tail of the dragon is not a scenery road. You have to watch every inch of the road. But, every rider wants/ need to ride it once I guess.

 

I rode the Dragon a few years back...glad I did, check the box but no interest in riding it again - different strokes for different folks I suppose. That region has some awesome riding and I've gone back time and time again to enjoy it, just not to the Dragon - can't afford to take your eyes off the road for even a second until you park the bike.

 

Tail of the Dragon is not a scenic ride, this 318 curves in 11 miles is a fun test of your motorcycle skills, if your looking for a scenic ride, Cherohola is right next door which goes along the top of a mountain ridge with numerous scenic pullovers to enjoy the view. Luckily this areas have the best of both worlds. Having numerous professional photographers to capture your trip on the tail of the dragon is worth every penny.

 

Knew you would enjoy some of the great riding my state has to offer. Y'all come back now, ya hear?

 

Leaving in the AM but going to Wilkesboro...will ride that part of the hills for a few days.

 

Did the Dragon 3 times last week. Good times!

 

Been a cold but scenic 2 days so far, today should be a bit warmer.

 

I need to hurry and get over there before the leaves fall. Haven't been able to make it this year and the leaves are at peak right now.

 

Still plenty if them....went to shady valley then took 91 to Elizabethton then 321 to Boone the leaves were really nice and the weather today a gift....