Route: The Rattler
Type: Point to Point
Begin: Hot Springs, NC
End: Lake Junaluska, NC
Travel Time: 1 hour
Distance: 33.3 miles
Highlights: Curves, straightaways, lush vegetation, canopied roads, scenic views, riding skills needed

About The Rattler

The Rattler is quickly earning a reputation as a challenging, yet pleasurable motorcycle ride, and a great alternative to the Tail of the Dragon.

The motorcycle community seemingly cannot get enough of the Tail of the Dragon between Deals Gap, NC and Chilhowee, TN on US-129. Thousands of riders converge on that short 11-mile road each year.

However, the lesser known, The Rattler, on NC-209 between Hot Springs, NC and Lake Junaluska, NC, provides plenty of curves, switchbacks, S-turns, and straightaways. The bonus: a lack of crowds or danger often associated with the Dragon.

The Beginning

As with many of our rides, the route begins at the local US Post Office, this time in Hot Springs, NC.

Drive south on Lance Avenue and just outside of town the road becomes NC-209. The next 33.3 miles will be exhilarating, challenging, and a real riding pleasure.

Lush green vegetation lines the side of road as you pass through the valley between Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stop at any overlooks you find for great views.

NC-209 is well maintained and less traveled than many of the other motorcycle routes. Nevertheless, it is well worth the time it may take to get there. It is a great ride.

Our map ends at the US Post Office in Lake Junaluska, NC.

Google Map | The Rattler Motorcycle Route