Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is part of the Nantahala National Forest, approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, NC, near Robbinsville as a living memorial to the writer/poet Joyce Kilmer. Veterans of the Foreign Wars asked the government to set aside a fitting stand of trees to serve as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action during World War I. Although Kilmer was both a soldier and a poet, he is most remembered for his poetry about common, beautiful things in nature
One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States, the area is administered by the U. S. Forest Service. The memorial is a rare example of old growth cove hardwood forest, a diverse type unique to the Appalachian Mountains. In 1975 the memorial forest was joined with a much larger tract of the Nantahala National Forest to become part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness.
Due to a devastating disease of the American chestnut tree that caused a rapid, widespread die-off of the once plentiful tree from its historic range in the Eastern United States, the American chestnut, once the dominant tree of the forest, was affected by the chestnut blight. Although the last of the Kilmer chestnuts had probably died by the late 1930s, their wood is so rot-resistant that remnants of the massive logs and stumps are still visible.
Another more recent loss is that of the giant hemlocks due to an infestation of an exotic insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid. For safety of visitors from a falling limb or tree, Forest Service managers decided to bring down dead trees near the memorial trail in a way they believed would mimic natural blowdown. In November 2010, the Forest Service blew up the trees with explosives, making the lower loop trail much lighter and drier.
The best way to enjoy the impressive memorial forest is by doing the easy 2-mile hike to see the majestic Trees such as Sycamore, Beech, Basswood, Red and White Oaks and Hemlock. Some of the trees are over 400 years old and the oldest Yellow-Poplars are more than 20 ft (6.1 m) in circumference and stand 100 ft (30 m) tall. Aside from the trees there are also other variety of shrubs, vines, ferns, mosses and other plants to see. This popular family hiking destination features an easy two-mile, figure-eight trail and has two loops: the 1-1/4 miles lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper ¾ mile loop swings through Poplar Cove, a grove of the largest trees.
The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
The only way to see the impressive memorial forest is on foot. The figure-eight Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail covers two miles and has two loops: the 1.25-mile lower loop passes the Joyce Kilmer Memorial plaque, and the upper 0.75-mile loop swings though Popular Cove – a grove of the forest’s largest trees. The trailhead parking area has a flush toilet and picnic tables. No camping or overnight parking is allowed.
Located about 15 miles from Robbinsville. Take Highway 129 North for 1½ miles to the junction with Highway 143 West (Massey Branch Road). Turn left on Highway 143 and travel approx 4 miles to a stop sign/T intersection. Turn right and drive for approx 7.3 miles and bear to the right at the junction of Santeetlah Gap and the Cherohala Skyway. Continue for another 2½ miles to the entrance of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest on your left.
They are known as the “Museum That Runs” because of their unique goal of offering their visitors an experience unlike any other by starting some of the motorcycles daily. This is home to the world’s foremost All-American Vintage Motorcycle Collection, with over 300 historically important motorcycles displayed in 24 marquees.
Wheels Through Time Museum is home to the world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles, memorabilia, and a distinct array of unique “one-off” American automobiles. Located just 5 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Maggie Valley, North Carolina our museum houses a collection of over 300 rare machines.
We found and purchased our first cabin in Andrews, NC in 2007. Since that time, we have added two more cabins for our guests to visit and enjoy what the area has to offer. Andrews is located in Cherokee County, North Carolina. Andrews is a beautiful and peaceful small town located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing spot to escape the pressures and stresses of everyday life, you have found your dream getaway. Take in the views of nature from your own private deck or relax in the hot tub while listening to the tranquil sounds of the water flowing down Collett Creek.
The Perfect Mountain Cabin Getaway
Dreaming of a romantic getaway in a picture-perfect Smoky Mountain log cabin? That dream comes true at Cherokee Mountain Cabins — hand-crafted one, two and three-bedroom luxury cabin rentals near Nantahala Lake. Mountainside cabins. Creekside cabins. Rustic, romantic and elegant with no shortage of creature comforts —
- Romantic Gift Packages
- Concierge
- Massage
- Hot Tub
- Pool Table
- Outdoor Fireplace
- Gourmet Kitchen
When you stay in our cabins, you’re in the middle of Western North Carolina’s great outdoor playground with whitewater rafting, zip lining, horseback riding, hiking, boating, fishing, golfing, mountain biking and scenic drives all at your doorstep.
Just above Cherokee Mountain Cabins, the beautiful Nantahala Lake is the second highest lake east of the Mississippi. And below our cabins, the Nantahala River offers world-class trout fishing and one of the south’s most popular whitewater sports venues.
Enjoy a complimentary award winning country breakfast served in your own private room. Four decks with creek views for your enjoyment. Gas grill, campfire area, hot tub, hiking trails just to name a few of the amenities right out the front door. Private entrance, fridge and microwave and tv in each room. Jetted bathtub and outdoor hot tub.
Manor is a family operated business. We take pride to provide the same quality of care, friendliness and courtesy as guests would receive in our personal residence. A new experience in vacation living, we want our home to be your mountain home away from home!
Choose from our 1- and 2-bedroom spacious and tastefully decorated suites that sit just beneath the hill of Olde Towne Robbinsville. All suites are furnished with comfortable beds, ensuite baths, fully equipped kitchens, satellite television, high speed Internet, central heat/air along with free local telephone calls, free parking for large trailers, buses or other recreational vehicles. Laundry facilities and gas grills on site.
An ideal location and within walking distance to gift and discount shops, restaurants and a wide variety of entertainment as well as many natural area attractions. A haven for those seeking the cool, casual, unhurried pace of a mountain retreat!
he San-Ran Motel, an American owned and operated business since 1968, is located at 253 Rodney Orr Bypass (US 129) in Robbinsville, North Carolina in the heart of Graham County. We offer newly renovated, quality, clean rooms at reasonable rates. We provide secure off-street private parking with room for trailers and covered parking for motorcycles. A grocery, drug stores and several restaurants are with-in walking distance.
The San-Ran is only 20 minutes from the Tail of the Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway. Also nearby is the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, the Appalachian Trail, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Lake Santeetlah, Fontana Dam, Fontana Lake, the Blue Ridge Parkway and whitewater rafting. Many other attractions such as the Cherokee Gambling Casino and the Smoky Mountain Railroad are within an hours drive.
Each room is equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, BBQ grill and Direct TV and are spacious enough for all your riding gear. Park your bikes outside your door under our covered porch.
Our unique tiny house style cabins are perfect for family vacations, motorcycle tours, romantic getaways, and camping adventures. Cabin rates start at $38 per night. You can also choose to stay in our campground. We welcome tents, RVs, and campers. Escape to the mountains and enjoy our general store, concrete driveway, covered bike parking, WiFi, firewood, ice, and a clean, warm bathhouse. We are honored to offer a 15% military discount (ID required @ check-In).
The Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort is located at Deals Gap, North Carolina and is nestled deep in the Great Smoky Mountains on the NC/TN state line. We are also known to many as Deals Gap, the home of “The Dragon” or simply by the locals as “the Gap”. We hope that our website will provide you with helpful & useful information about the resort and surrounding southern region of the Appalachian mountains.
The resort is open Early March (before Daytona Bike Week) through Mid November and provides you with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay overnight or a quick fuel up to get back on our twisty roads. With the world famous Dragon literally outside our doorstep, you can encounter one of the most technical & challenging roads in the country. Of course, people come to the attraction of 318 curves in 11 miles, but they soon discover all the best kept secrets of the many great roads leading you here. Like the land that time forgot, you will not find any driveways, gas stations, subdivisions, or mini malls. In place of all the hustle & bustle of big city life, you will find many scenic & beautiful places to stop & take time to soak in all the natural beauty that our area has to offer.
Without a doubt, you will have one of the best motorcycling experiences one could have. The staff here at DGMR is committed to helping you in planning & experiencing one of the best vacations that you will ever have!
The Gleanings Resort Luxury Suites and Cabins offer a special escape from the normal vacation retreats. The secluded Smoky Mountain location promises privacy in a natural mountain setting only a short distance from the quaint country town of Robbinsville, North Carolina. There are no crowds or busy 4-lanes and the air is crisp and fresh.
Our accommodation options include Private Luxury Suites that are available in the main resort building. The multi purpose Harvest House vacation home can rented by the room or entire house and is equipped for group retreats. And The Pasture vacation home is situated in it’s own private 4 acre retreat.
The Gleanings Resort is much like a lodge environment, sitting on a ridge in the mountains. Our quality accommodations will satisfy the most discriminating guests and our rates are a real value.
The grounds are immaculate with many places to enjoy nature. Views from the higher elevations of the main resort will inspire you. There is also a swimming pool and hot tub available for all guests.
The essence of the perfect North Carolina family mountain vacation, this smoky mountain cabin sets the standard for family lodging. Situated in the heart of the Snowbird Mountains on Snowbird Creek the outdoor enthusiast will be as close to paradise as they can get on this earth. You can catch your limit of Rainbow or Brown trout without starting your car. Hike to waterfalls or a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Tranquility and seclusion on a private road affords long quiet walks and a safe place for the kids to act like kids. Our lakes and creeks will give you memories your family will cherish for a lifetime.
Perched on the banks of a peaceful, mountain creek, Creekside Paradise is the perfect basecamp to all your adventures. Whether you’re a hiker, biker, or casual explorer, we look forward to welcoming you to our corner of the mountains here in Western North Carolina. Come relax in the hot tub, nap by the creek, hike the many scenic trails, or simply cozy up with a cup of complimentary coffee by the campfire. However you define adventure, we welcome it!
DRAGON’S REST CABINS & LODGING Affordable cabins and vacation rental on Tallulah Creek. Located near the Cherohala Skyway, Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap, and Moonshiner28. Only minutes from Robbinsville, North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains. Stay a day or a week and enjoy the southern hospitality !!
Choose on of our 6, large One Bedroom Cabins with private porch and full bath, or reserve the Creek House for a private creekside home with three bedrooms and two baths. All of our cabins include plenty of parking for extra vehicles and trailers, covered motorcycle parking, picnic pavilion with gas grills, game room, WiFi, and access to Tallulah Creek. Linens are provided with all of our rentals. All cabins are non-smoking.
Dragon’s Rest Cabin are located just 3 miles south of Robbinsville, North Carolina on US 129. Paved, level access from US129. Cabins have hard packed, level gravel driveway and parking areas.
Guests who stay at Fontana Village Resort see the world differently because they find inspiration in unexpected places. From mountain biking and hiking trails, to time spent out on the lake, our adventures and activities are united not by what makes them the same, but by the remarkable things that make them different. For those who crave fresh air, a quiet atmosphere, authenticity and destination immersion, Fontana Village is where you can explore the outside inside you amidst the best of the Smoky Mountains and all its natural beauty.
Stay in this tree-house type 200 sq ft one room glamping cabin nestled in the backwoods with private deck. Attached to back deck as we live here too. Make simple meals or add non vegan bfast (5 night max) for extra fee. Escape and unplug to our Appalachian “Eden”.The view doesn’t get any better than this! 2 mi from paved rd, all need 5″ clearance, 1.2 mi of uneven gravel/dirt with potholes. May be too rough for cycles but can park trailer 1 mi at neighbors. Use ONLY our directions!
The space
Get off the beaten path and adventure to the backwoods to enjoy this glamping cabin with private deck overlooking a wild brook trout stream. Our pretty creek brings plenty of white noise. Sufficiently furnished to make simple meals or treat yourself to breakfast. Unplug, reconnect with each other, and let the stress flow away in this unique decorated room. Imagine the sound of the creek lulling you to sleep and waking up in a tree-house like setting. A hot non vegan breakfast can be added for $10 per person per day. Advance notice required.
Guest access
The tiny house is a separate structure, not just an extra bedroom. It is connected to our back deck with access to a gas grill outside your door. Feel free to relax in the owner’s large screened porch with seating area and dining table overlooking Squally Creek, or have privacy on your own deck overlooking this beautiful trout stream.
Other things to note
We are 2 miles from a paved road, no cell, WiFi or texting. All vehicles need 5″ clearance due to 1.2 miles of uneven gravel/dirt road with shallow pot holes and bumps. May be too rough for motorcycles – suggest parking trailer 1 mile away at neighbors.
DIRECTIONS: We cannot stress enough to use ONLY our directions. If you don’t it WILL lead to a washed-out road.
GAS, RESTAURANTS, STORES: We are a half hour from gas, grocery store and restaurants. Robbinsville and Graham county have no packaged liquor stores.
ON SITE: fish for wild brook trout, wade in the refreshing creek, hike for miles up the road, bring outdoor gear, 4-wheelers or dirt bikes to ride the backwood roads right outside your door. Or just let nature re-energize your soul by listening to the creek, finish a book, or reconnect without your “devices” or star gaze.
CLOSE TO: “Tail of the Dragon/Deals Gap” (40 min) or “Cherohala Skyway” (20 min) on your bucket list? We are close to both! Our county has the best “twisties”. Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (20 min), Santeetlah Lake (10 min), fish Snowbird Creek (20 min) and several others, Fontana Lake and dam (40 min), marinas for boat rentals (30 min), several waterfalls, hiking trails and overlooks, Stecoah Gap AT Trail and birding trail (40 min), Smoky Mountain National Park/Cades Cove entrance (2 hrs), Nantahala whitewater rafting (40 min), Cheoah rafting (30 min), Slingshot and motorcycle rentals (40 min), casinos (40 min), caves (2 hrs), and several artisan shops in the county. Tourist maps are provided.
UNPLUG: No cell or WiFi at cabin. (Verizon is local carrier in town and WiFi provided at McDonalds.)
You are coming to the backwoods which has a hunting season using hunting dogs. Our woods have wild animals, venomous and non venomous snakes-avoid and do not provoke.Occasional chainsaw and 4-wheelers may be heard.
Two Bedrooms, one bath beautiful Lake Nantahala lakefront cabin with all the extras. Queen Bed in Master, Twin Bunk Bed in Second Bedroom. Full Kitchen and Living Area with electric fireplace. Spacious porch. Beautiful outdoor covered Hot Tub, Grill, Outdoor Fire Pit and Private Dock. Enjoy a large private deck with plenty of space.
Beautiful mountain area, with all the needed conveniences at your fingertips.
Enjoy the facilities of Lakes End to include Café & Grill, Boat Rentals and Marina, Adventure Store, Volleyball, Horse Shoes and more. Free WiFi and local phone, and satellite Television in the living area.
In The Great Smoky Mountains Near Robbinsville, North Carolina
The Inn, our dream, is a true log home bed and breakfast. Sitting on top of a knoll overlooking the Stecoah Gap. The 360 degree views are breathtaking. Less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail. Rooms are filled with primitive antique furniture along with several pieces faithfully hand-crafted by the innkeepers themselves. The pavilion is a great spot to host weddings.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape or an exciting outdoor adventure. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. We’re nestled along the shoreline of picturesque 2,800 acre Santeetlah Lake in the lush Nantahala National Forest. Blue Waters Mountain Lodge puts you in the heart of one of the nation’s most beautiful areas. Known for its natural splendor, activity filled outdoor lifestyle and deep serenity, this majestic setting offers a wealth of activities or the perfect backdrop to do nothing at all.
This unique combination of relaxation and action packed fun starts at the Lodge itself. Here you’ll find a game room complete with billiards, cards, darts, and a variety of indoor games. As well, there is croquet and horseshoes outdoors. For a quiet alternative, the Lodge offers a well-stocked reading library and plenty of decks. Enjoy outstanding lake and mountain views that invite you to settle in and relish the solitude.
Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads, fries
OPEN EVERYDAY FROM 11:00am to 4:00pm
FOOTLONG HOT DOGS, SANDWICHES AND BURGERS, SOUPS AND SALADS, PREMIUM SIDES
Our unique tiny house style cabins are perfect for family vacations, motorcycle tours, romantic getaways, and camping adventures. Cabin rates start at $38 per night. You can also choose to stay in our campground. We welcome tents, RVs, and campers. Escape to the mountains and enjoy our general store, concrete driveway, covered bike parking, WiFi, firewood, ice, and a clean, warm bathhouse. We are honored to offer a 15% military discount (ID required @ check-In).
Gas Station Robbinsville NC
“Homemade and carefully crafted, served with extraordinary hospitality.”
Since March 2003, this family-owned restaurant has been making gustatory impressions in Robbinsville, NC, making it a favorite hang-out spot for both locals and tourists.
Located at the heart of Downtown Robbinsville, Lynn’s Place is a soulful neighborhood restaurant, dishing up homemade American cuisine rooted in the Carolina Mountains honoring family recipes.
Enjoy the great salad bar with freshly cut veggies, seasonal fruits, proteins and grains. Mouth-watering homemade desserts, hand-cut steaks, fresh hamburgers and much more! Everything is cooked to order to ensure the highest quality.
Experience a warm atmosphere with great food, southern culture and hospitality where family and friends can sit back, relax and feel at home.
Barbecue restaurant in Robbinsville North Carolina drive and self service food.
El Pacifico Restaurant is a family-owned and operated business that started October of 2003 located in Robbinsville, North Carolina. Our goal is to offer delicious, made-from-scratch Mexican food at a reasonable price with family-style dinning.
We are warmly embraced by locals and tourists who are seeking for a unique dinning experience, authentic taste of Mexico along with art and culture.
We take pride with our made-from-scratch dishes, each made from the heart and crafted with pride and cooked according to honored family recipes. We use the freshest, finest ingredients from our scratch made salsas, sauces, guacamoles, tortillas, beans, sides and we use traditional Mexican items to ensure the best quality.
We also take pride with our excellent and fast customer service. We are passionate to ensure you enjoy your dinning experience with us.
We invite you to visit us! Celebrate traditions, enjoy the company of family and friends, share laughter, create memories and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine that will tickle your taste buds and bring your senses to the bright and colorful kitchens of Mexico.
Manor is a family operated business. We take pride to provide the same quality of care, friendliness and courtesy as guests would receive in our personal residence. A new experience in vacation living, we want our home to be your mountain home away from home!
Choose from our 1- and 2-bedroom spacious and tastefully decorated suites that sit just beneath the hill of Olde Towne Robbinsville. All suites are furnished with comfortable beds, ensuite baths, fully equipped kitchens, satellite television, high speed Internet, central heat/air along with free local telephone calls, free parking for large trailers, buses or other recreational vehicles. Laundry facilities and gas grills on site.
An ideal location and within walking distance to gift and discount shops, restaurants and a wide variety of entertainment as well as many natural area attractions. A haven for those seeking the cool, casual, unhurried pace of a mountain retreat!
We are a family owned & operated restaurant. Freshly hand patty hamburgers to fresh vegetable & home cooked dinners.
From adding more balanced options to our Happy Meal®, to serving up fresh beef Quarter Pounder® burgers that are cooked when you order, we’re always finding ways to show our commitment to our customers and our food.
Fuels
Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasolines
Diesel
- ATM-IN
- Food Offerings
- Air
- Loyalty cards
- 24 Hour
- Restaurant
- Loyalty program
- MCX
- Other Loyalty Cards
Tourist attraction in Swain County, North Carolina
Ok so this wasn’t on MY bucket list .. but was on my husband’s so it was on our anniversary trip to-do list! And it really didn’t disappoint ether! 318 turns in 11 miles with steep drops and no guard rails! This road is not for inexperienced drivers… But if you drive slow and take the turns carefully it is a pretty amazing experience. There are some cool shops just before you drive into TN that mark the beginning of your drive, and they have memorabilia and stuff. Look for the dragon statue to your left– he is all made of metal! Just beware.. it isn’t for people who don’t like heights or who can’t navigate turns well.
318 turns in 11 miles, one of if not the best drive I’ve ever been on! If you love curvy, challenging mountain roads and amazing views, this is the route for you! I drove through completely by accident on my way to the Foothills Parkway but I’ve always wanted to drive the tail of the dragon and I got to its something you must do if in the area!
The Dragon is popular and internationally famous destination for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts since 1981. Known as America’s number 1 motorcycle and sports car road, famous for its 318 curves in 11 miles (18 km). The road earned its name from its curves being said to resemble a dragons tail. The stretch bears the street name Tapoco Road in North Carolina and Calderwood Highway in Tennessee and is signed entirely by US 129 (hidden SR 115).
Deals Gap, also known as Tail of the Dragon, is a portion of U.S. Route 129 in Blount County, Tennessee, situated in a gap in Swain County, North Carolina, United States. It was publicized as one of the most scenic drives in USA. This road is appealing to those who are looking for adrenaline rush and excitement. With hundreds of blind curves, long blind crests, and high degrees of camber, this road presents plenty of opportunities to leave the pavement both laterally, and longitudinally, and will provide a challenge even for the most seasoned drivers/bikers.
The Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest border the Dragon, there is no development along the 11-mile stretch, this adds to safety as well as natural beauty. The Dragon stretch of US 129 is double-lined as no passing (there are pull offs you can use to allow tailgaters to get ahead of you.) There are also pull-off points along the route for scenic overlooks. The road is certainly breathtaking, but has a fearsome reputation, speed limit was posted at 30 mph in 2002 and still in effect today. Trucks are also prohibited to enter the road due to previous accidents and incidents involving trucks and semi-tractor.
The best time to drive this road is between March and November. Winter months can be hard to predict. The weather on this zone is harsh and highly unpredictable and it does not take much time for the bright sun shine to change over to moderate to heavy snow fall. This road had a reputation for being extremely dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards, and driving under these conditions, can be challenging. This road is not for the faint hearted, but if you are looking for a little excitement and adrenaline pumping journey, dont miss this one.
We are nestled deep in the Great Smoky Mountains on the NC/TN state line and are known as the home of “The Dragon” motorcycle ride with over 318 curves in 11 miles. We are open from March 1st through late November and provide you with all of the amenities needed for a comfortable overnight stay. You will find many scenic and beautiful places to stop and take in all of the natural beauty that our area has to offer. Without a doubt, you will have one of the best motorcycling experiences one could have
he San-Ran Motel, an American owned and operated business since 1968, is located at 253 Rodney Orr Bypass (US 129) in Robbinsville, North Carolina in the heart of Graham County. We offer newly renovated, quality, clean rooms at reasonable rates. We provide secure off-street private parking with room for trailers and covered parking for motorcycles. A grocery, drug stores and several restaurants are with-in walking distance.
The San-Ran is only 20 minutes from the Tail of the Dragon and the Cherohala Skyway. Also nearby is the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, the Appalachian Trail, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Lake Santeetlah, Fontana Dam, Fontana Lake, the Blue Ridge Parkway and whitewater rafting. Many other attractions such as the Cherokee Gambling Casino and the Smoky Mountain Railroad are within an hours drive.
Each room is equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, BBQ grill and Direct TV and are spacious enough for all your riding gear. Park your bikes outside your door under our covered porch.
