Community Forums

RVThere · 11-22-2009, 06:07 PM

The wife and I are camping at the KOA in Townsend, TN right outside the Smokey Mts. National Park. We took the toad for a ride (in the rain) to the Cades Cove loop road.

This loop road is a 11 mile, one way loop that goes around old homesteads. We did the first 5 miles with no problem but saw that the road was very tight and had plenty of potholes and tight turns. No problem for our Jeep as we made our way to the visitor center.

In the visitor center parking lot I was very surprised to see a big class A, tag axle and all, parked there. I couldn't believe this guy drove that bus in there and wondered how he would get it out the remaining 6 miles.

Needless to say, the Class A left while we were touring the homestead. When we left, there was a BIG traffic jamb as the bus inched along the rough road. Finally he/she found a spot to pull over and let the 50+ cars by. The RVer did not score any 'friendly points' with the crowd behind him.

Even though I did not see any signs or regulations, this is a road that RVers should avoid with their rigs.

Any others?

Wayne M · 11-22-2009, 09:45 PM

US-129

You would not even have to turn your head to see the back end of your rig trying to catch up. It's also know as, "Tail Of The Dragon."

tmh462 · 11-22-2009, 10:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wayne M

US-129

You would not even have to turn your head to see the back end of your rig trying to catch up. It's also know as, "Tail Of The Dragon."

US 64 is nearly as bad. All the curves, with a few less hills. I nearly creamed a tour bus when towing our travel trailer on it (and yes, he was on our side of the road).

justimagination · 11-22-2009, 10:49 PM

You only make that mistake one time, and he will not forget it. I know I've been in a pickle before, had to unhook Toad, turn around and re-hook. I learned my lesson quick. Have a good Thanksgiving and travel safe,
David G.

Lorna · 11-22-2009, 10:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmh462

US 64 is nearly as bad. All the curves, with a few less hills. I nearly creamed a tour bus when towing our travel trailer on it (and yes, he was on our side of the road).

Parts of Hwy 64 is off limits to trucks. It doesn't say so but anyone with a large RV should realize that the signs apply to them as well. I used to live in Franklin NC. US 64 between Franklin & Highlands is off limits to trucks. Coming thru the Cullasaja Gorge, You can see awnings left on the cliff side! I learned to drive on that road. I love coming down the mountain using the brakes as little as possible... FUN!!

Back in the early 70's my Dad was in a Citizens Band Radio Club. 129 was a main road for traveling into TN. Most of the Club (from Franklin) had gone over to TN for a "coffee break" and most had to be back to go to work the following morning. They caravanned back home doing speeds up to 90mph. Every one in the group were "locals" and had run those roads all their lives. It's all in what you get used to. I think the current speed limit on 129 is about 30mph on the bad parts. My Dad used to "street" race... the cops... some of the guys with us used to be in the same "business". If you're from the South, then you know what I'm saying.

desertrv · 11-22-2009, 11:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wayne M

US-129

You would not even have to turn your head to see the back end of your rig trying to catch up. It's also know as, "Tail Of The Dragon."

Hello Wayne. Cades Cove and the Tail of the Dragon are not the same. In the same general area, about 30+ miles apart. The Dragon is primarly a motorcycle thing now and the Cove is a real nice place back in time.

I grew up in the area, and was there this summer. It sure was nice. I played a little bluegrass music with the brother at the 1st church on the Cades Cove Loop, back in Sept.

RedneckExpress · 11-23-2009, 03:29 AM

Hey is Little River RV Park still up the parkway from Townsend, right by the entrance to the Smokey Mountains NP? I stayed up that way a few years ago.

Wizard · 11-23-2009, 08:09 AM

Every time we pass US64 exit near Franklin, we say " There's the road to hell". We once missed the last campground and while still looking we found ourselves past the point of no return. Had a 30' MH and towing at the time. Absolutely no where to turn around. The road back down into Dillard was almost as bad. We had a strong brake smell when we got back to the bottom. Driving it in the toad though is one of the most beautiful drives in the area with all the waterfalls.