US 129 (Tail of the Dragon)

Locale: , , ; Scale: ;
Miles 14
Endpoints Cheoah River Bridge in Topoco, NC, Calderwood Dam Overlook in Vonore, TN
Surface Paved

NER Notes

One of the most famous motorcycling roads in the country. 318 curves in 11 miles. This is a riding mecca and can get crowded, so best time for riding it without the crowds is off-season and/or during the week, early in the morning.

Pro photographers stake out some of the curves to get your photo, which you can later order online for a memento.

Helpful links:

NER Rating

  • US 129 (Tail of the Dragon)

    • Curves/Fun Factor

    • Scenery

    • Attractions

    • Traffic



Rated by Riders

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Average Rider Rating
US 129 (Tail of the Dragon) 5.00/5 (1 Review )

  • US 129 (Tail of the Dragon)

    May 25, 2021

    • Rider Rating


    One of the great motorcycle rides. Try to get there when there is less traffic - off-season or early in the day. Bring your best technique and hit the twisties hard or just cruise them and enjoy the scenery. Either way it is very entertaining. This road is a constant series of banked turns through beautiful territory.  Often ridden as and up and back, make sure to take in the views on one of your passes.  There are 2-3 companies that take photos of every vehicle as it passes key spots (Killboy, 129 Slayer, 129 photos). Go to the sites at the end of the day and you can download your shots or have them sent to you as a print or CD.

    How were the road conditions at the time you RECENTLY rode?

    Excellent - like new