Although the event primarily focuses on driving the dragon, we also drive a few scenic routes as well. We routinely have over 50 cars if not 100+ attending a run and we want to make sure everyone knows what to do if you get separated from the group. We will have veterans of any given run leading the various groups and will do our best to keep everyone together. Unfortunately, things happen such as driving through towns with red lights that cause the group to break up a bit, so please familiarize yourself with the routes (noting key points along the drive) in case you get separated. We will be providing a digital copy of the routes so that you can print them to take a hard copy with you.
The goal of this event is to have fun, make memories, and to simply enjoy the time that you spend with each other while here. Through various group activities and scheduled events, we hope to provide an atmosphere of respect and entertainment. Whether it’s your first time with us or you are a “repeat offender”, we anticipate that all of the planning and effort will help to provide you the best weekend you have ever had. So, whether you are tearing up a mountain road solo or with a group, helping a fellow friend to install that particular mod to their car, or just sitting around a warm camp fire at night enjoying the stars and a drink, please keep an open mind and enjoy your time to the fullest.
Cherohala Skyway
Cherohala Skyway (TN Hwy 165, NC Hwy 143) is a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina. Opened and dedicated in fall of 1996, this highway starts at 800 ft. in elevation, and climbs over mountains as high as 5390 ft at Santeetlah Overlook on the state border, with 21 miles of the Skyway in southeast Tennessee and 15 miles in North Carolina. The road crosses through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, thus the name "Chero...hala." Travelers on the Tennessee side are treated to mile-high vistas, brilliant seasonal foliage, the magnificent splendor of the Cherokee National Forest and the Tellico River. The rugged mountains, sparse human population and diverse habitats of Tennessee's eastern border make it home to an amazing variety of wildlife. There is little evidence of civilization from views that rival - or surpass - any from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Approximate driving time – 5+ hours – Longer with stop offs
Waterfall Run
Head down Route 28 to take in Dry Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. Then head back to the new pavement of Forest Service Road 711. From there back to Robinsonville via scenic Wayah Road for gasoline and food.
Approximate driving time – 5+ hours – Longer with stop offs
Devil's Triangle
The Devils Triangle, just north of Oak Ridge (TN) in the mountains of the Cumberland Plateau, is made up of some of the most unusual two lane twisty roads in eastern Tennessee.
This run is recommended for experienced drivers. The adventure ranges from the bucolic rural Tennessee scenery to a view of Brushy Mountain State Prison; from gentle country road sweepers to gnarly steep switchbacks; from serene straights to Dragon like twisties with guard rails of death; from gentle pull-offs to three foot deep rock strewn gullies just inches from the pavement; from peaceful farmsteads to sections of rutted roadway right out of a horror movie
Approximate driving time – 7+ hours – Longer with stop offs
Newfound Gap/Clingman's Dome
A very scenic route that starts through the lower 129. Then head down the Nantahala gorge and up US 441 North. On the return trip there will be a stop off at Clingmans Dome (Weather Permitting), the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi at 6,643 ft. This run is similar to the Skyway taken at a slower pace with several areas to turn off and grab photos.
Approximate driving time – 6+ hours - Longer with stop offs
The Rattler
Travel to the Pisgah National forest and over the Great Smokey Mountains to Hwy 209 with over 234 twists, turns and curves from I-40 to Hot Springs. NC 209 has a little bit of everything you are looking for - pastoral valley views, challenging mountain climbs, twisty and tight technical sections, and a great little mountain town to visit - Hot Springs, NC. It can be a lazy roll through the scenic countryside or a place to test the edge of your tires.
Approximate driving time – 8+ hours – Longer with stop offs
Foothills Parkway Twilight Run
Blue Ridge Parkway
Thunder Road
Head to the Foothills Parkway Look Rock observation deck to watch the sun set in the mountains. (Weather Permitting)
Approximate driving time - 2+ hours
The Blue Ridge Parkway run is an experience is unlike any other: a moderate-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles; however, our run will only take us from the Southwestern entrance in Cherokee 57 miles down to Brevard and then a scenic drive back to Fontana
Approximate driving time – 6+ hours
Pick up this road on US19 just a few miles north of the 129/19 junction. Follow Wayah Creek up the gorge crossing over the creek several times. The road travels past Nantahala Lake then over the mountain range and into Franklin. The return trip is back on Thunder Road. It’s 56 miles of twisting fun.
Approximate driving time – 4+ hours