Your Guide to the best motorcycle roads in the NC mountains
Discover the breathtaking motorcycle routes of the western North Carolina mountains, renowned for their scenic beauty. Whether you choose to ride the famous Blue Ridge Parkway or explore peaceful back roads, the charming towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva serve as ideal starting points for your motorcycling journey.
Jackson County offers unmatched access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, rider-friendly back roads, and an extensive stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway. With our central location, you’ll spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying the stunning mountain vistas.
This guide is designed for passionate motorcyclists, featuring the favorite routes of our local riders. Get ready for your next adventure in the western North Carolina mountains!
Note: Motorcycle riding involves inherent risks. Remember to wear a helmet, follow speed limits and road signs, and respect other motorists.
Map Notes: Click on the links below to open the map in Google Maps. You can also click on the More Options link inside each map to modify the route to your liking (to change the start and end locations for example).
Best of the Blue Ridge Parkway
Distance: 141 Miles
Approximate Time: All day ride. Leave early to allow plenty of time for stops and a picnic.
Route Info: Once on the Parkway there are not any stops for food or fuel. Stop in Cherokee, fill up the tank, get some snacks and beverages or pack a picnic.
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Discover the allure of the renowned Blue Ridge Parkway, America’s most celebrated motor route. This motorcyclist’s paradise offers stunning vistas, winding roads, and scenic overlooks. Jackson County boasts the largest stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, allowing riders to fully embrace this pristine journey. Starting from Sylva/Dillsboro, our recommended route takes you on an unforgettable adventure, ending at the same location. Get ready to experience the magnificence of the Blue Ridge Parkway firsthand.
Map Link: Click to Get Map
Check out the overlooks: Along this route there are a number of great overlooks, each offering a unique view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Among them is Waterrock Knob, which provides an ideal place for riders to rest and have a picnic. Waterrock Knob’s amenities include restrooms, a gift shop, a large parking area, picnic benches, and just a short hike to one of the highest points and best views along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Most Challenging Roads
Distance: 81 Miles
Approximate Time: 1/2 day
Difficulty: High Difficulty
Route Info: Not a lot of stops, fill up on food and fuel.
Join me on one of my absolute favorite little runs, filled with excitement and natural beauty.
If you’re a fan of fast, technical roads with plenty of twists and turns, this route is an absolute must-ride. Brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled experience that will keep you engaged from start to finish. However, if you prefer the tranquility of mountain scenery and leisurely sweeping turns, it’s best to stick to the Parkway and save this one for another time. It’s often underrated and rarely frequented by other riders, making it a true hidden gem.
Map Link: Click to Get Map
Prepare for a ride where boredom is non-existent, as this route boasts a mix of twisties, sweepers, thrilling ups and downs, and a captivating journey through the forest. With minimal traffic, except for the occasional local traveler, you can relish the freedom of open roads.
Be ready for tight, blind curves that add an extra element of excitement to your adventure. While it may not offer expansive long-range views, the route’s charm lies in its journey through the lush forest, immersing you in nature’s embrace.
So, let’s hit the road together and experience the thrill and tranquility of this hidden gem. Join me in exploring these lesser-known roads that promise a memorable and invigorating ride amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Cullowee Mountain Road Loop
Distance: 85 Miles
Approximate Time: 1/2 Day trip
Difficulty: Easy
This is a local favorite and offers an off the beaten path experience. This ride is what I call the lazy of motorcycle touring, it’s a great afternoon. Stop off for lunch in one of the many restaurants or breweries in the area. Here are some of the favorites around Cashiers.
Map Link: Click to Get Map
The mountain town of Cashiers, North Carolina is accessible on this route. Cashiers is home to upscale shopping, dining, and quaint Southern charm. It’s also home to The Village Green, a relaxing commons/park area worth exploring.
Beware of gravel driveways: Proceed with caution on this route. Many driveways along both Cullowhee Mountain Road and NC 107 are unpaved, and gravel will occasionally wash out into the road.
The Rattler +
Distance: 156 Miles
Approximate Time: Plan for the better part of a day to allow for stops.
Route Info: The Rattler begins at Ferguson Supply where you can get a photo with the Rattler sign. The road coils up into the Pisgah National Forest on its way to the small town of Hot Springs where you wet your whistle and catch a bite to eat. We have noted a few stops along the way. I call this the Rattler + because I like to extend the ride to Lonesome Mountain Road and Revere Road down to Marshall on the banks of the French Broad River where there are also some great dining opportunities.
Notable Stops:
Map Link: Click to Get Map
Starting at Fergusons, a convenient stop offering a range of amenities such as food, fuel, restroom facilities, and drinks. Additionally, they boast an extensive selection of Rattler merchandise that you can purchase. Don’t miss the chance to capture a memorable photo with the iconic Rattler sign at this location. As you venture 12 miles ahead, you’ll reach Dave’s 209 and the Rattlers Den. This renowned establishment garners attention for its mouthwatering burgers, frequently featured in esteemed newspapers throughout Western North Carolina. Indulge in delightful beverages, avail restroom facilities, and seize great photo opportunities. Of course, you can also purchase Rattler merchandise here. Continuing 12 miles down the road, you’ll encounter Hot Springs, a vibrant destination encompassing a range of accommodation options including hotels, a hostel, and a campground. Pamper yourself at the Hot Springs Spa or savor a delightful meal at one of the various restaurants available.
Nantahala Gorge and Wayah Bald
Distance: 97 Miles
Approximate Time: Great all afternoon ride
Route Info: Nantahala Gorge is known for it’s whitewater rafting as much as it’s stunning scenery. Climb to the rivers alpine source then cross Wayah Bald
on a ride everyone loves. Complete your loop with a ride on one of North Carolina’s best curvy rides. This is another of those ride off the beaten path. We don’t see a lot of traffic on this route and the roads all very smooth and trouble-free. We have a few stops to highlight along the way.
Notable Stops:
- Currahee Brewing – Born in the Foothills of the Appalachian Mountains
- Motor Company Grill – 1950s Themed Diner Restaurant
- Lazy Hiker Brewing – Brewing Awesome Beers in Franklin, NC
- Lakes End Cafe & Grill
- Nantahala Outdoor Center
Map Link: Click to Get Map
Wayah Road connects US 64 at Franklin, NC to US 74 smack in the middle of Nantahala Gorge. It is the only road that cuts through the rugged terrain of the Nantahala National Forest. There is plenty to see along the whitewater river. Once you dive into the Nantahala gorge you will be riding alongside the Nantahala River. There are so many opportunities for to pull off to the side and just take in that fresh river air and the sites. This a really fun and relaxing route to take and must do if you are ever in the area to do it.
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