The famous one. 318 tight curves in 11 miles across the NC and TN line near Fontana Dam, with no side roads or driveways to break your focus.
Open in MapsTHE ROADS
GOOD ROADSIN EVERY DIRECTION.
Western North Carolina is some of the best riding in the country, and Murphy sits right in the middle of it. Here are the rides we send people out on, from the famous asphalt to the gravel back roads.
THE LEGENDS
THE FAMOUS ASPHALT.
The rides people trailer bikes across the country for. All of them are an easy morning from camp.
A National Scenic Byway from Robbinsville to Tellico Plains. Long, flowing curves climb past 5,000 feet with mountain views the whole way.
Open in MapsFrom Deals Gap down to Franklin. Fast sweepers, big elevation changes and lake views along Fontana.
Open in MapsA lesser-known gem over Wayah Gap in the Nantahala Mountains. Curve after curve, without the tourist traffic.
Open in MapsTHE LOCAL SECRETS
THE BACK WAY IN.
Quiet secondary roads that skip the four-lane and roll you right into Murphy.
A twisty local bypass from near the Georgia line right into downtown Murphy, with none of the four-lane traffic.
Open in MapsRolling country curves off US 64 and NC 294 with very little traffic. Watch for the odd patch of gravel in the turns.
Open in MapsGRAVEL AND FOREST ROADS
FOR THE ADV AND DUAL-SPORT CROWD.
Forest Service roads through the Nantahala and Cherokee backcountry. Conditions change with the weather and some roads close seasonally, so check with the Forest Service before you head out.
Out of Murphy on a historic route of remote asphalt and long gravel stretches, then up the Buck Bald road to an open grassy summit with views of three states.
Open in MapsUnpaved and remote, from near the Cherohala Skyway and Joyce Kilmer Road deep through the backcountry toward the Tellico River.
Open in MapsHard-packed gravel through thick timber just outside Murphy. An easy first test for a big adventure bike on dirt.
Open in MapsRugged and quiet north of Murphy, with small creek crossings and native terrain that keeps you honest.
Open in MapsShort but technical. Tight switchbacks on a dirt and gravel climb, a favorite with dual-sport riders.
Open in MapsA rustic, little-traveled pass along the ridges near Murphy. Best when the leaves are down and the valley opens up.
Open in Maps