Blissful Riding in the Mountains
Gandhi once said there is more to life than increasing its speed. Had Gandhi been a biker, you would assume he had this epiphany while cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway on his Harley. With miles of sweeping two-lanes and hundreds of viewing pullouts, the mountains and blooming foliage will capture every motorcycle enthusiast’s attention in Cherokee, and the need for speed will be a thing of the past.
If the aim is a little higher, say, the sky with similar breathtaking views, you’ll want to take over the nearby Cherohala Skyway, which will take bikers up and over 5,400 feet of the Great Smoky Mountains. Remember your jacket, and have a full tank of gas as you leave Cherokee behind on this altitude-pushing, 36-mile ride that crosses into Tennessee, where many stop to take in the 100-foot Bald River Falls before continuing back into North Carolina on the sweeping curves with the sunset behind them.
Also close by is the Tail of the Dragon at Deal’s Gap, perfect for the adrenaline junkie who craves conquering 318 curves in 11 miles. For the experienced biker, this is better than any roller coaster and lives up to its formidable namesake. The Tail of the Dragon is not for sightseeing, it’s for heart-racing, blood-pumping excitement. Just remember, respect the road, whichever one you choose to take on.
All Roads Lead to Cherokee
A week or just a weekend spent in the mountains in Cherokee is easy getaway fun that’s gentle on the wallet. As you plan your motorcycling adventure through the Great Smoky Mountains and on Blue Ridge Parkway, check out the customized value packages that include great hotel discounts in Cherokee, where you are welcome to bring your motorcycle or pick one up from many of the rental locations nearby when you roll into Cherokee.
Keep an active weekend even when off your bike by selecting the Adventure Package, where you can choose to horseback through the mountains, float the Oconaluftee River in a tube, go whitewater rafting, play golf at the renowned Sequoyah National Golf Club, and even go all out at Harrah’s Hotel and Casino for a gaming rush. With all the summer events coming up, such as Rod Run, July Powwow and the Festival of Native Peoples, check out the Events Package, which will include your choice of Cherokee event tickets. Or choose the Cultural Value Package to learn more about the history of the Cherokee and their land. This package includes tickets to Cherokee’s official cultural attractions of your choice. Be sure to pick up your Cherokee Passport at local area retailers, restaurants and the Welcome Center for even more savings when you get off the road and back on your feet.