Has anyone in the South Carolina area ever ridden on US 321 from say, Columbia all the way to Gatlinburg? Or do you prefer the interstate to make time? Heading back to the Smokies in October to check out Pigeon Forge and possibly do the Dragon and Skyway again and beginning to plot the route. Last July when we were there, we came in on US23 from Ohio to Johnson City and rode US 321 into Gatlinburg. This time around its from home. I know the interstate to Maggie Valley way but looking at other routes.

 

Classic, I've been on 321 from Columbia to the BRP at Blowing Rock a few times. I definitely recommend using 321 to get to the Gastonia area versus the interstate. It is a nice stretch of road. 321 North of Gastonia is pretty boring until you get closer to Blowing Rock. Then it gets pretty hairy as there is a lot of construction going up the mountain (at least I don't think it is done yet). If I may suggest; try going 321 to York and then pick up Rt 5. From there catch 29 in to Gafney and then pick up 11. 11 takes you through some scenic rolling countryside and gradually works you toward the mountains. If you have time be sure to stop at Strawberry Hill to get some homemade ice cream. Take 11 all the way to 178 (just northwest of Greenville) and take that north in to Rosman, NC. From there take 64 over to 28 and take that all the way to the Dragon. Enjoy your trip!

 

321 is definately still under destruction from Lenoir to Blowing Rock. Tues. and Thurs. are blasting days, no travel after noon on those days. Really rough the rest of the week. Zoom over to Hwy 181 on I-40 W from 321 in Hickory, and head up the mountain on some real curves.

 

Ok , Cool Thats the kind of information im looking for. I have been on 321 as far as Clover SC but not any further. I do remember some construction going on 321 between Johnson City and Gatlinburg. I'll look at the routes you guys gave me. Thanks...

 

Classic,
If you go route 11, consider picking up Rt 276 over to Rt 64 at Brevard. Nice twisty stretch of road. Plus you should stop at Ceasars Head State Park at the top of the mountain. The overlook there is amazing. You are eye level with the hawks as they ride the thermals watching for their next meal. Seems like you can see forever. If you don't mind a bit of a walk (nice time to stretch the legs anyway) you can also take a hike to one of two overlooks of one of the highest waterfalls in the state. You can actually walk a suspension bridge over the falls if you have enough time to go that far on the trail. I don't know if your in to that kind of stuff, but even if all you have time to do is stand at the overlook by the gift shop, this place is well worth a spot on your planner. Have fun!

 

Im actually looking into that route. Our goal is Pegion Forge because we didnt get a chance to go there in July except on the back of a tow truck when I had a rear blowout on 441 going toward Cherokee. That was a trip in itself. But Im taking the whole week so we can explore. I just hope the weather is good or we'll do it in the cage. If thats the case, we'll just do the interstate. Planning both modes of transport for backup.