If we want to "run" the Dragon this fall we need to avoid hunting season (dogs, trucks, and deer do not mix well with high speed assaults) and also need to go after the peak of fall color as there is much congestion.

The THP got 60K and they have 6 to 10 officers up there each weekend, most think it will die down after Labor Day but who knows.

There are plenty of other roads, NC 28 "The Hellbender" is very good and with a posted speed limit of 55 you can get after it a bit more. There is also the Devil's Triangle north of Knoxville, the Cherohala Skyway, and many more.

Also need to keep in mind that is will be tough to find rooms in Knoxville any weekend of a UT home football game, might be better off staying on the NC side.

Of course I'm in.