Originally Posted by
Alicia
rmaier - I lived in CO for a number of years and can re-enforce what
Franc said about the differences (and I even drove the back road to Central City ONCE ) There are challenges in the Tourist Run, fortunately just the right number. And very good advice to decide after arrival at the Lodge - the approach to the Lodge is very attention getting so try to arrive before dark. That will give you an idea of what Saturday may offer. (How do parents of the young folks who work at The Grill stand the suspense of their arrival home???) I loved the Tourist Run last year!
Alicia
Agreed 100%.
Advice to first timers.....Don't challenge the Dragon when you first come thru.
1) You're gonna be tired from the long drive
2) Your car is loaded with luggage and will not perform at it's best
3) This road is one of the "Deadliest Roads" (as seen on TV) It shows no mercy to fools
4) Don't prove before you get there and meet everyone , that your not safe to be around on the road.
5) Accidents happen. But blowing it on your third turn into the Dragon is no accident. It's just stupid.
6) Bending a wheel or a fender will ruin your week end.
The speed limit on the Dragon is 30 MPH. Believe me, on most of the turns, that is way too fast. Put the tranny in third (auto or manual) stay off the brakes, and enjoy.
Coming in from Knoxville,,,,the Dragon was just 11 miles of warm up.
The Hellbender stretches things out a bit more. But many of the turns are reverse banked after a long straightaway. And they will dump you into the lake.
Remember, the whole point of the trip was to meet and greet friends, and drive the Appalachian mountains.