5. Smoky Mountain Loop

NOTE: In our previous version of this article, we recommended starting and ending the ride in Maggie Valley, NC. You can begin/end there, but it adds a significant amount of time just getting to the Smoky Mountain Loop. We have updated this article to start the ride at Wears Valley in Sevierville, TN. Technically, you can begin the loop anywhere along the route, but why not start in the centrally located Wears Valley?

Smoky Mountain Loop Motorcycle Ride: Starting at Foothills Parkway in Wears Valley, TN

Get ready for a lengthy motorcycle ride around and through the Smoky Mountains. Start at the Foothills Parkway West entrance in Wears Valley, TN and head southwest toward Chilhowee, TN. This central spot in Sevierville drops you straight into the action. While you can jump on the loop anywhere, Wears Valley keeps it simple and scenic.

This 31.5 mile stretch (about 45 minutes) is a smooth, scenic cruise with plenty of pull-offs for photos or just taking in the Smoky Mountain views. Drive the entire length of Foothills Parkway West until you reach the end in Chilhowee, TN.

Chilhowee to the Tail of the Dragon

At Chilhowee, turn left onto US-129, and head toward the Tail of the Dragon. This legendary 11-mile section (about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace) packs 318 curves and pure adrenaline. Ride it steady, it’s a thrill but demands focus. After conquering the Dragon, continue on US-129 as it merges into US-28 toward Deal’s Gap.

Deals Gap NC-28 to US-19

The next 21.9 miles is also known as Hellbender 28 (NC 28). While not as twisty and curvy as the Dragon, it is a beautiful route. The Hellbender 28 ends in Stecoah. NOTE: Hellbender 28 and Moonshine 28 are the same route until you reach Stecoah.

From Stecoah, NC, stay on NC-28 (about 10 miles, roughly 11 minutes) as it winds through lush forests and alongside rivers, leading you to US-19. This stretch is less intense and still offers great scenery and smooth riding.

US-19 to Bryson City and Cherokee

US-19 routes you through downtown Bryson City and then on to Cherokee. While in Bryson City, you may want to take a break and enjoy some lunch at one of the restaurants. Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson has a nice retail store here too. They sell t-shirts and other items, but not motorcycles. It is located near the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad museum. When you leave, head towards Cherokee.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

In Cherokee, pick up US-441 north and head into Great Smoky Mountains National Park (about 30 miles, roughly 45 minutes). You’ll pass the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, where you may want to stop for park info or a quick gift shop visit. The road climbs through the park toward Newfound Gap, serving up awesome mountain views. The route from Cherokee to Gatlinburg is also known as the Smoky Mountain Divide.

Optional Side Trip: Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome)

From Newfound Gap, you can detour to Kuwohi, formerly Clingman’s Dome, the highest elevation in the park and in Tennessee. The 7-mile ride on Kuwohi Road to the trailhead (about 14 minutes) leads to a 0.6-mile paved walk to the observation deck. The trail’s steep, so expect a 20-minute round trip if you take it slow. The panoramic views are a solid reward if you’ve got time.

Kuwohi Road to Wears Valley

Head back on Kuwohi Road and turn left onto Newfound Gap. Continue north (left) on US-441 toward Gatlinburg, TN (about 16 miles, 25 minutes). At Sugarlands Visitor Center, turn left onto Fighting Creek Gap Road. NOTE: You will need to ride past the visitor center and then turn around since you can’t turn left on Fighting Creek Gap Road.

Fighting Creek Gap Road (also called Little River Road) twists through the park for about 20 miles (roughly 35 minutes), delivering more scenic beauty. Turn right onto Wear Cove Gap Road near Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, which turns into Wears Valley Line Springs Road. This takes you back to Wears Valley, completing the loop.

Why Start at Foothills Parkway in Wears Valley?

Starting at the Foothills Parkway West entrance in Wears Valley puts you right on one of the Smokies’ best roads and keeps you close to food and fuel. The loop hits iconic spots like the Tail of the Dragon, Hellbender 28, Moonshiner 28, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park while keeping the ride manageable. Plan for a full day, especially if you add stops like Kuwohi (Clingman’s Dome). Ride safe and enjoy the Smokies!