Originally Posted by
RL67037
Ok, ok ... I have never been to the Dragon (will make it one day, I'm sure) but watching this video brings some questions to mind:
With it being a 2 lane twisty, isn't it dangerous zipping through it at those speeds? I know there are "cruises" offered, but I also see that there are more "aggressive" tours to be had.
Has anyone that attended the Crossfire meet ever lost their car into the trees?
With as much as this forum promotes the GTG, and with two trips per year, the local police have to know that you all are there and will be running the twisties - do they not monitor the roads?
Just curious...
The Tail of the Dragon is known as a "Death Road" It is dangerous for novice or un-skilled drivers. It is even more dangerous for drivers who have over estimated their skill levels or the capability of their vehicle.
It is no place for fools.
that said,,,,,,,
The Dragon has vehicles on it all the time it is open from Spring to late fall. it is well regulated by police and a30 MPH speed limit. Driving aggressive one seldom exceeds that speed. And, fortunately, the Yellow line is strictly enforced. Even the most reckless bikers know the dangers of crossing it.
Yes, some press the limits but, a good aggressive run thru the Dragon does not require breaking the rules too badly. A 20 minute run would be mildly aggressive, but only average 30 MPH.
Not sure about trees but a few have run into the mountain and the side ditches. Compared to other local roads, the Dragon is very well maintained with guardrails and berms strategically positioned to keep most drivers out of the woods.
Frankly, the Fontanna GTG is more about driving elsewhere in the region. There are lots of roads where the limit is 55 MPH and more fun to drive. Moonshiners and 28 coming in from Robbinsville comes to mind. Most of us do the Dragon twice. Once coming in and once again going home.