Slaying the Dragon – The Ultimate Drive
Nestled between the Great Smokey Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest lies 11 miles of a Porsche owner’s dreamland. Paved roads with 318 curves, and no intersecting roads or driveways, through the lush green forest. Since Greg and I love to drive, of course, we knew about the Tail of the Dragon, but hadn’t actually gotten a chance to go…until this year.
We packed the 911 and made our 9 hour journey from St. Louis to the Dragon, taking turns driving to break up the miles into more manageable chunks. As we arrived at the North end of the Dragon, Greg was the one in the driver’s seat, so he was first to drivethe Dragon. It was fantastic for me as a passenger. Being late in the day, I would not get my turn just yet. Ooooh, the anticipation!
The next day, after a good night’s rest in a treehouse lodge, about 20 minutes south of the southern end of the Dragon, we were up early, ready to go. The weather was perfect. Mostly sunny and no rain. I engaged Sport mode and the stiffer suspension, put the windows down, and we were off. Starting slow, I quickly worked my way up to taking each curve faster. The 911 felt right at home sticking to curve after curve. I took in the rumble of the engine and exhaust from behind me, the cool wind whooshing through my hair, and the view of an empty, curvy road in front of me. I drove the entire 11 miles without being slowed down by any other cars. Nothing compares. I now understand the reputation of the Dragon, and encourage you to check it out if you haven’t already. You won’t regret it. And if you have time, check out the many other fantastic drivers’ roads nearby (Cherohala Skyway, Moonshiner 28, the 6 Gaps), as we did. It is the ultimate drive.
Nancy