**THIS ROUTE IS MORE GEARED TOWARDS RIDERS WITH A BEGINNER / INTERMEDIATE OFF-ROAD SKILL LEVEL**
Explore some great riding in the Smoky Mountains On and Off-road!
Thank you for checking out this experience on Riders-Share!
My name is Roland and I am a long time professional in the Powersports Business. After riding on the road since I was 16 years old I finally got the opportunity to ride off-road when I moved to East Tennessee about 7 years ago. I have since been working to increase my skill level and took some professional off-road riding classes with Dirt-Wayz and DART riding school. I also followed the On-road MSF training to qualify to be a Rider Coach. I enjoy meeting fellow riders and sharing the great riding this area has to offer!
This approximately 4 hour tour for ADV and Dual Sport bikes, starts in Vonore Tennessee, and is roughly wedged between the Tail of the Dragon (Hwy 129) and the Cherohala Skyway.
Time wise it is about 65% Off-road and 35% On-road, but the On-road sections are winding and a lot of fun to ride, even somewhat challenging!
The first stretch winds roughly along the Little Tennessee river and connects to a narrow Off-road stretch which will be quickly followed by some amazing, paved, but extremely steep and winding roads.
The next off-road gravel section follows a fast flowing Creek up to the most challenging section of the trip. We will travel up a rocky and winding track up a mountain and down the other side. This section is steeper but not extreme and because there is very little mud, traction is generally excellent even with 50/50 or even 70/50 tires. (I’m running 50/50 tires myself.) This section can be skipped for less experienced riders but is the most fun!
After getting back to the main gravel road we follow this further up into the mountains, crossing several bridges and passing camp sites until we wind up on the highest point of the trip. From here we follow another gravel road towards our destination where it will gradually turn into a paved road. Arriving in Tellico Plains we can enjoy a sandwich or pastry from the best Bakery in East Tennessee!
From here you are welcome to explore the area around Tellico Plains on your own or I can take you back to the start point via a winding back road skirting the mountains. If you prefer you can also take a highway back which will be somewhat quicker.
*Although I will be happy to share the knowledge I picked up over the years, I am not a trainer and I don't provide any formal training. Participation is at your own risk.
** Signing a standard damage waiver is required.
