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Newfound Gap Road Smokies

Yahoo Message Number: 103275
Folks, this week I have to get from Murphy NC to the Pigeon Forge area just north of Gatlinburg TN. I'm quite familiar with the US 74 route on the east side of the Appalachian spine. We usually hit I-40 and go east to Ashville. But, the route choices for this trip are horrendous. The logical route is to take US 129 over the spine from Topton to Chilhowee. But geez, I see they call this the "dragon's tail." A favorite for sports cars and motorcycles...like 28 curves in 11 miles or something. The total chicken route is to take I-40 over the spine, coming out way north and heading back south on I-40 to get back to the area. That route is 70 miles out of the way.

Anybody crossed the Newfound Gap (US 411) from Cherokee to Gatlinburg? It would have be a Sunday and the peak leaf season. Is it doable in a coach? Looks like there are fewer pullovers in the Cherokee to Gatlinburg direction.

George Harper
04 Allure 31093
Rome, GA

Re: Newfound Gap Road Smokies

Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 103277
We live in Townsend Tn, on the edge of the park. Traveled all the roads you mentioned all the time. Ride the Dragon probably three or four times a month. I would not travel 129 with a coach great on my bike horrible with an r/v. 441 is ok good climb and decent, just gear down and use pull offs for traffic behind you. Colors are turning so great trip enjoy.
2006 inspire 360
Norm

Re: Newfound Gap Road Smokies

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 103279
Mr. George Harper,

The Newfound Gap road is a piece of cake for you and your coach. It is neither steep nor twisty on the east side. The west side is a little steep and twisty for a mile or two near the high point. You'll have no problems with this drive. In fact, you'll enjoy it.

George in Birmingham
'03 Magna 6298
George in Birmingham
2003 Magna 6298