Tail of the Dragon Newsletter
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Season Opening Dates & Discounts  

 

TailoftheDragon.com 

 

Cherohala.com 

  

Moonshiner28.com 

  

DevilsTriangeTN.com 

  

SixGap.com  

 

TheDiamondbackNC.com 

 

Area Accommodations

 

Motorcycle Rentals, Repairs, Accessories  

 

Touring Routes & Descriptions 

  

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Event Calendar  

 

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Other Things To Do 

 

Area Web Cams  

 

Photos by Killboy.com 

Above photo by Killboy.com
Big Junction on Cherohala Skyway March 2010. 

BEGINNING OF THE SEASON NEWSLETTER     

 

Well, it's another season and the Tail of the Dragon is looking forward to a banner year on all area roads.

We had a very mild winter, but recent tornadoes have caused some minor damage. Thankfully the people of Tellico Plains and Murphy were spared any serious injuries. The only damage that might affect our visitors was the devastation of the KOA Campground in Tellico Plains. Rebuilding is underway and we'll let you know when they reopen.


Tail of the Dragon is building a new T-Shirt Shack at the same location on the Dragon. We will have more parking available and a porch to get out of weather. We hope to be open in early April. Just look for the Big Tail and the Moonshine Still. Sorry, but the still is non-functioning.

 

We will continue bringing you all the latest news on our Tail of the Dragon website, Facebook Page and monthly newsletters. Be sure to check out all of our websites featuring great roads in North Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee.


We do advise to be aware of the changing road conditions. Although temps can be in the 60's, we've seen plenty of spring time snow storms. Some sections of asphalt get no sunlight for the entire day resulting in unanticipated wet spots and black ice. The higher roads such as the Cherohala Skyway with elevations of more than 5,000 feet are susceptible to snow and ice at any time.  

 

Watch our WEATHER LINK for up to date conditions. We should be out of the cold by April, but many riders sneak in a March visit and take advantage of the special spring discounts offered below. Once again watch the weather.   

 

"LOOK FOR THE BIG TAIL"  

 

Discounts

BEGINNING OF THE SEASON - DISCOUNTS AND OPENING DATES         

 

ABBEY INN MOTEL, Maggie Valley NC The closest Maggie Valley motel to the Dragon, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Smoky Mountains National Park.  We offer a free bike washing area with soap and towels, porches with awesome 5 mile mountain views, clean rooms and lots of free maps and information on area rides.  There is a restaurant across the street open from 8am to 9pm for your convenience.  Call us at 828-926-1188 or  800-545-5853 for reservations and information. REOPENING APRIL 26, 2012, TAKING 2012 RESERVATIONS    

 

A HOLIDAY MOTEL, Maggie Valley NC Discover the most popular motorcycle friendly motel in Maggie Valley. One level motel with covered porch parking in front of each room, bike wash area, rocking chairs and much more. Rooms have fridge/micro/coffee/Wi-Fi & HBO and brand new pillow top mattresses. Restaurant on Site serving great breakfast and lunch. 1/4 mile to the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. Special Event: Spring Biker Bash hosted by A Holiday Motel April 13-15th. Party with DJ and karaoke, cook out, camp fire, bike games, ride to the Tail of the Dragon and more. Visit our FaceBook page for more details. Only $110.00 for 2 night stay including entertainment and Saturday night cook out for 2 people! Telephone 877-686-4386 Telephone 828-926-1186.   

 

STAY ON THE CREEK Two secluded cabins on Big Snowbird Creek within walking distance.  Large fire pit, covered picnic area.  Plenty of trailer parking, paved access, easy motorcycle access.  Great for group or just rent one cabin.  See SNOWBIRD ESCAPE and BIG SNOWBIRD CREEK CABIN  Also see nearby SNOWBIRD CREEKHOUSE on Little Snowbird Creek, difficult motorcycle access. 

 

BIKER BARN Located just 9 miles North of Blairsville at the Traffic Light Intersection of Murphy Hwy US19/129 & Nottley Dam Road GA325 Motorcycle apparel & accessories, motorcycle trailers. Towing, Transport, Storage. The Biker Barn will be going back to Summer hours March 29th, 6 days a week. Closed Monday. Tue - Sat 9:30am till 5:00 pm Sun 10:am till 4:pm Carrying alot of new products this year. TELEPHONE 706-781-6729

 

COLVINS CATERING BBQ Based in Robbinsville and home of the Notorious Pig, pulled port, ribs, brisket and chicken BBQ. The BBQ truck will be parked at the the Tail of the Dragon TShirt Shack at the Dragon on selected days in 2012. Also available for group catering. Renting a cabin for a few days? Colvins Catering can stock your cabin with enough fresh smoked BBQ for the whole gang. Telephone 828-735-1741 OPENING IN APRIL


CHILHOWEE MOUNTAIN RETREAT Located just off the Foothills Parkway. A quiet, peaceful, comfortable bed and breakfast escape. Enjoy the seclusion of the surrounding forest and the panoramic views of the mountains. Paved access suitable for motorcycles, trailer and bike parking. Three elegant rooms to select from. Full breakfast, WIFI, HD-TV and MORE. TELEPHONE 865-983-8511 Stay two or more nights at 20% off the one night rate. Stay four nights and get half off the fourth night.

 

COPPERHEAD LODGE, near Blairsville GA Located in Blairsville GA, near the twisties of Six Gap North Georgia
OPEN YEAR ROUND RATES AS LOW AS $59 THROUGH MARCH.
 

March 17, 24 - North Georgia Idol
March 17 - St. Patty's Party Corned Beef, Cabbage, Shepherd's Pie specials, drink specials
March 31, 5 p.m. North GA Idol finale
April 5 - Season Kick off Bike Night - Paul Constantine - 6-9 pm 10% discount on food for all on bikes - Swap Meet - bring your stuff, no set-up charge!
April 7 - Bikers Helping Hands Treasure Hunt
April 7 - Car & Bike Show
April 7, 6 p.m. Live Music - Mike Watson Band - On the Porch
April 8 - Easter Sonrise Service, 7 am
April 8 - 8 am - 3 pm Easter Brunch
April 13 - Relay for Life fundraiser Support our Relay for Life team - 10% of all restaurant sales donated
April 14 - Live Music - Chris Gulley 6:30 - 10:30
April 19 - 6-9 pm - Bike Night - Live Music with Paul Constantine 10% discount on food for all on bikes- Swap Meet - bring your stuff, no set-up charge!
April 21 - 6:30 - 10:30 - Live Music with High Noon Band
April 27 - Relay for Life fundraiser Support our Relay for Life team - 10% of all restaurant sales donated
When staying in North GA, there is no better place than The Lodge at Copperhead. Paved roads, covered parking, full service restaurant & bar, weekly entertainment. Get all the details and more on our website Make reservations online or by calling 706-835-7433


DRAGON PITT INN & DRAGON PITT BBQ, near Maryville TN, (formerly the Punkin Center Inn) located just 9 miles south of the Dragon at the intersection of US129 and TN72 (on the Dragon/Cherohala Loop). Stop by and welcome the owners Dennis and Jane Dearing. All rooms $64.95, stay 6 nights and get the 7th night free. Rooms include Sat TV and WiFi. The Dragon Pitt BBQ shack is right next door to the Inn and we make great pulled pork, burgers and BLT's with friendly service and atmosphere. Telephone 865-253-3566  DRAGON PIT INN IS OPEN FOR THE 2012 SEASON - DRAGON PIT BBQ WILL BE OPEN STARTING MARCH 30.  

 

DRAGONS REST CABINS, near Robbinsville NC located just off US129 near Robbinsville. March Special: Book 2 nights and get the 3rd night free. Covered parking, covered picnic pavilion, game room, and Wi-Fi. We will now have 6 cabins to rent for this season. TEL 828-479-4726

 

FONTANA VILLAGE RESORT, near Robbinsville NC  Located just 19 miles from the Dragon on NC28 aka Moonshiner28. OFFERING two exclusive deals to Tail of The Dragon riders through April. Book your room in the beautiful Lodge at Fontana for $59 per night, Sunday through Wednesday or book any two nights, Thursday through Sunday, and receive your 3rd night free! . Call 800.849.2258 for reservations and mention the "Tail of the Dragon Spring Special" or click here and book your rooms online. (Offer not valid in conjunction with other offers or discounts. Accommodations Based on Availability. Holidays, Blackout dates excluded.) click here for Special Rates for Dragon Slayer Club, If you're not a member yet, click here to sign up today. Visit website or call 800.849.2258 for additional information. OPEN YEAR ROUND

 

GREAT SMOKYS CABIN RENTAL, Bryson City NC area  With over 40 cabins (many are motorcycle friendly) spanning through Western North Carolina as far East as Dillsboro/Sylva.  Great Smokys Cabin Rentals is the company for you! From rustic cabins to luxury cabins, we have it all! Call our toll-free number between 8 AM & 8 PM and let us assist you in finding the perfect vacation cabin rental for your Smoky Mountain getaway. Spring may be around the corner but we've frozen our prices. Book before 3/15/12 to receive the 2011 rates. TELEPHONE 800-655-9771 or 828-488-4630 OPEN YEAR ROUND

  

HAMPTON INN & SUITES, Cashiers-Sapphire Valley NC March special - $79 per night Fri - Sat, $69 Sun - Thur. Mention "Winter Valley Special", must call local number to make discount reservations, does not apply to online reservations.  Discount doesn't include any applicable taxes and based on availability. Also special rates for groups and clubs - talk to Michelle, sales manager. TELEPHONE 828-743-4545   

 

HAMPTON INN KNOXVILLE AIRPORT, Alcoa TN  Just 30 minutes from the Dragon, near Devils Triangle, Cherohala. Close to Smoky Mountain Harley. REQUEST TAIL OF THE DRAGON SPECIAL RATE $89 (not available during home UT football weekends). TEL 865-984-0110

 

HOTEL PIGEON FORGE Covenient location - walk to restaurants and attractions in Pigeon Forge. Several rooms/suite to choose from. Heated pool, free Contenental breakfast, free WIFI, cable satellite TV, refrigerator, views of the Smokies, lighted parking area, meeting/conference room. TELEPHONE 866-896-2950 Offering spring rates are between $49.00 to $88.00.


HIDDEN CREEK CABINS, near Bryson City NC
Cabins of every size in the Bryson City area. From creekside cabins for a couple to lodges for a group of 30. Choose from creekside, forest or mountain top locations. Ammenities and rental rates vary. Some with hot tubs. TELEPHONE 888-333-5881 OFFERING 15% OFF TO MOTORCYCLE GUESTS DURING MARCH AND APRIL OPEN YEAR ROUND

 

HIGHLAND MANOR INN, Townsend TN Peaceful location in Townsend near all the Great Smoky Mountain attractions. Just a couple miles from the entrance to Smoky Mountains National Park, and 30 minutes to the Dragon via the scenic Foothills Parkway. Reasonable rates, great views, Continental breakfast, refrigerator, and deluxe rooms. TOLL FREE 800-213-9462 OR DIRECT 865-448-2211 Offering EVERY THIRD NIGHT FREE! $69.50 weekend rate available and a $59.50 weekday rate.

IRONHORSE MOTORCYCLE LODGE, near Robbinsville NC The winter has flown by at the Ironhorse, but not without significant progress on our upgrade of the activities pavilion. As of March 2, we have completed a 1600 square foot expansion of the upstairs mezzanine which will be air conditioned and become the new multi media movie theater. This area will also serve as a private meeting area, provide a private Sunday church services area, and be used for special events. Additionally, we have provided for a massage therapist room where guest can advance book a session with the therapist. Start calling now for the 2012 season to ensure your appointment. The new additions are a continuation of Ironhorse's commitment to our guest for exceptional service and amenities. Telephone 828-479-3864 OPENING APRIL 1  


KOA TELLICO PLAINS, Tellico Plains TN
located right on the Tellico River at Hwy 360 and Hwy 165 (Cherohala Skyway). Full hookup RV sites, tent sites, and sleeping cabins. Outdoor camping kitchen available. Paved access. TOLL FREE 888-562-4711 OR 423-253-2447 DIRECT KOA IS CURRENTLY REBUILDING AFTER MARCH TORNADO DAMAGE. OPENING SOON


LUXBURY INN, Maryville TN
Mention that you read about us in the Tail of the Dragon and receive a Ask for Tail of the Dragon 10% OFF (Sun - Thur, depending on availability).  These large suites are located in the heart of Maryville and only 1.4 miles from Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Shed. Visit website or call 1-800-738-9839 and make your reservation today!  

 

MAIN STAY SUITES, Alcoa TN Convenient to area roads, Knoxville and airport. Completely remodeled suites with full kitchens, hot breakfast bar, seasonal pool, bike wash. Pull-out sofa bed. Mention Tail of the Dragon and get a queen suite for $69.99 a night. Biker friendly. TELEPHONE 865-379-7799


MICROTEL of Bryson City NC
 Managed by a Harley rider and certainly biker friendly with 59 rooms, spacious parking lot, bar & grill on site. Cleaning cloths are available for bikers as well as a water hose. Prepackaged map packet directions to the Dragon, Cherohala, Great Smokies, Highlands 64, FootHills parkway and The Road to Nowhere. 828-488-7900. Offering a 15% discount to all bikers on their bikes.      


MOUNTAIN MOTORS in Robbinsville NC
The Original Biker Shop of the Dragon Since 1991. Stop by and see John & Val Feil. We've been Wrenching & Riding for over 35 years. As always, Mountain Motors will be open for year round retail, parts and service repairs for all makes and models of bikes. Our hydraulic shop is also open year round. Offering 10% off all parts and retail items to all Motorcycle Clubs, AARP and Active & Veteran Military Members discount And of course, we are a Tailofthedragon.com dealer. Located on US129 in Robbinsville NC (828) 479-4488 Plan to attend the American Veterans Poker Run! To be held on Saturday, May 19th, 2012 (Armed Forces Day), At Mountain Motors in downtown Robbinsville OPEN YEAR ROUND  

 

MOUNTAIN VACATION DEALS An exclusive selection of privately owned cabins, most motorcycle accessible and in the vicinity of The Dragon. Two, Three and Four bedroom cabins available that will fit your budget. Each fully equipped cabin is unique, but most feature a hot tub, HDTV, central air & heat, relaxing decks and porches, modern full size kitchens, in a secluded setting. See our website for individual details.Offering 15% off listed price at any of our 6 Motorcycle Friendly Cabins until May 21st. Just mention "TOD-15 Special" and you'll get a great price at a luxury cabin! TELEPHONE 800-995-8558 or 828-538-1413


MOUNTAIN VIEW CABINS, Tellico Plains TN
Located just off the Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains TN.  Very nice, clean, affordable cabins, and rooms.  Private bathrooms, linens, cooking options, heat/ac, TV, campfire area, free wifi at Riverfront Lodge.  Some cabins have hot tubs.  Larger cabins have Jucuzzi, hot tub, and pool table. No cleaning fees, No 2 night minimum, and bonus 10% Tail of the Dragon discount with a 2 night stay, starting prices $39.95+tax. Call (423)519-2000 OPEN YEAR ROUND.


OFF THE DEEP INN, near Robbinsville NC
Cabin Rentals near Robbinsville, NC Brand new cabins on NC28 aka Moonshiner28, minutes from the Dragon. Private deck, level parking, Charcoal Grill. special offer for weeknights only. Opening April 1, 2012 Offering stay 2 nights get 3rd night free Sunday through Thursday through the month of April. Friday and Sat, are excluded. Mention "April Special when reserving room.   Telephonel 828 479-1251

 

RIVER COVE CABINS, Murphy, NC  Located near all the great roads of North Carolina and north Georgia. 3 Night Dragon Special $165.  Affordable Riverfront Kitchenette Cabins on the Nottely River. Prices from $65-$85 a night.  450 feet of river frontage on 3 acres of flat level land, perfect for motorcycle parking right outside your cabin. Wood burning fireplace cabin, jacuzzi cabins and 1 and 2 bedroom cabins, perfect for cold winter nights.   Telephone 828-644-9979 OPEN YEAR ROUND  

 

RUGBYCREEKCABINS.COM Located just off US 58 in southwest Virginia. Two great luxury cabins to choose from in secluded settings with mountain views or river frontage. Hot tubs, gas grills, and complete kitchens. This location is convenient (25 miles) for riders/drivers coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway or I-81. And US 58 (The Python) has some great twisties east of Damascus. Offering 10% off for a 3 day booking now through May 2012. TELEPHONE 276-579-4215

    

SAN RAN MOTEL Located in downtown Robbinsville on US 129. Covered bike parking. Paved parking for trailers. Reasonable rates. Clean and biker friendly. TELEPHONE 828-479-3256 Offering $5 off each night if you mention Tail of the Dragon Newsletter. OPEN YEAR ROUND 

   

SMOKY MOUNTAIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON Come help kick off the 2012 Shed season right with Unknown Hinson - Saturday, April 7. He ended the 2011 Shed season with a sold out show so you can bet it's going to be one hell of show to kick off 2012! Visit SHED WEBSITE for detailed line-up, shows start March 17. There's always a $5 ride-up discount at the gate! Eat on-site at Stinkers BBQ, and enjoy a great show. The Shed is located at our flagship location: 1820 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN, Tel 865-977-1669.

Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Outposts official Harley-Davidson apparel and motorclothes, as well as custom Harley-Davidson apparel, regional maps, and tourist information: Cherohala Skyway Harley-Davidson. Take a load off in rockers on the porch or in the lounge upstairs. Located at entrance to Cherohala Skyway on the Tennessee side. Tel. 423- 253-7432. Now Open Fri, Sat, Sun 10am-5pm
US129 Dragon Harley-Davidson, just north of the Dragon and Foothills Parkway on US129! Tel. 865-856-5942 Now Open Fri, Sat, Sun 10am-5pm

  

SMOKY MOUNTAIN MANSION Located near the Cherohala Skyway and Robbinsville NC. Rent a room or the entire mansion.Plan your trip to the Smoky Mountain Mansion before the summer rush! Offering weekly and evening rates available at 10% off regular rates. Perfect for a group or individual riders. Six bedroom house sleeps up to 18 guests. If you have at least 12 people, you may pay less to stay at the Mansion than local motels. Very nice kitchen for your use. Paved access, covered parking. Covered dining pavilion with catering available. Ride the Dragon - Stay at the Mansion! Telephone 866-862-4220 or 828-479-4220

  

SNOWBIRD LODGE on Cherohala Skyway NC First Class Mountaintop lodge at the beginning of the Cherohala Skyway in North Carolina. Offers 25% discount to BMWOA members, or 10% to all motorcycle riders for stays of two nights or more. 828-479-3433, 800-941-9290 NOW OPEN FOR THE 2012 SEASON


TAPOCO LODGE, near Robbinsville NC
 Historic Tapoco Lodge located just 2 miles from the Dragon. Features Elegant Suites, Riverfront Rooms and Yellow Hammer Mountain Rooms. Also full, king and queen size accommodations in 18 elegantly rustic cabin rooms. Jasper's is open for dinner on Thursday, Firday, and Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and brunch on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., reservations only. Dinner starts at $42 for a 5 course meal.  Call 828-498-2325 for room reservations, group requests, and dinner reservations. Slick Rock Grille available for groups, call for information. OPENING MARCH 29, TAKING 2012 RESERVATIONS

 

SKYWAY FOOD MART located at the intersection of US129 and NC143, on your way to the Dragon or Cherohala Skyway.  Big selection of Tail of the Dragon gear, NO ethenol fuel, and food. 

      

SWITZERLAND INN, Blue Ridge Parkway Located 45 miles north of Asheville NC just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, home of the Diamondback. Offering $20 off in April and May, per night, Sunday through Thursday!! Contact us at 1-800-654-4026 Monday through Saturday, 9am until 1pm, or email info@switzerlandinn.com. OPENING APRIL 18 FOR THE 2012 SEASON

 

TELLICO KATS DELI, on Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains TN Great sandwiches at the Tellico Kats Deli on the Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains TN. Dine on the river and enjoy fresh deli sandwiches. Open for the season. Tel 423-253-3411 OPEN YEAR ROUND, 10am-5pm, CLOSED TUES & WED UNTIL APRIL 1


TWO WHEEL INN, near Robbinsville NC
Located on US129 just south of Robbinsville NC. Call 828-479-4248. Thank you for another successful year at Two Wheel Inn!! NOW OPEN FOR THE 2012 SEASON.


THUNDER MTN GENERAL STORE, DELI & VACATION RENTAL, near Robbinsville NC
Last stop before the Cherohala Skyway in North Carolina.  Souvenirs, supplies, deli, and fuel.  This thriving business is For Sale by Owner for $339k (due to owner's illness) TEL 828-479-4171 NOW OPEN


WHEELERS PERFORMANCE north of Robbinsville NC
Located on your way to the Dragon on US129. If you need tires or repairs see Ken. Free bike wash, free scales, free demo table of cleaning and polishing supplies, Dyno is up and running, service on all models. Telephone 828-479-4998 NOW OPEN


WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM
Located 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway in Maggie Valley, world's premier collection of rare American Vintage Motorcycles. Tel 828-926-6266 Open: Thursday-Monday Hours: 9a.m.-5p.m. Admission: Adults: $12 OPENING APRIL, THURS - MON 10-5

About Tail of the Dragon:  

 

Tail of the Dragon LLC: We promote twisty, two lane tourism in the Smoky Mountain region of western North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, northern Georgia and the surrounding area. Ron & Nancy Johnson are the owners and webmasters and live in Graham County, North Carolina.  

 

Telephone us toll free at 800-768-7129 (8am - 6pm)
Canada and Other Countries 828-479-8400

 

Email us at info@tailofthedragon.com 

 

We have an outlet shop at the Dragon "The Shack", open daily 10am - 5pm, April - October. Look for the TAIL sign at US 129 and NC 28. Click here for TAIL OF THE DRAGON OUTLET MAP for other locations that sell Tail of the Dragon gear. You can also purchase at our on-line secure store at TailoftheDragonStore.com 

 

NEED DIRECTIONS? check out TailoftheDragonMaps.com

 

WEBSITES:

Cherohala.com 
TailoftheDragon.com 
Moonshiner28.com 
DevilsTriangleTN.com 
SixGap.com 

TheDiamondbackNC.com
TailoftheDragonResorts.com
TailoftheDragonTours.com
TailoftheDragonMaps.com

Killboy.com  

 

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