Media post: Gearhead Getaways: North Carolina’s Top Sports Car Routes and Destinations
The United States has over 4.12 million miles of roads to explore. North Carolina is often called the Good Roads State because of its great roads. One of its longest roads, U.S. Route 64, stretches 604 miles from Tennessee to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. This makes North Carolina a fantastic place for people who love driving sports cars.
The state has beautiful scenery, from the tall Blue Ridge Mountains to the pretty coastlines, offering different kinds of drives for everyone. Whether you want to drive fast and feel the thrill or take it easy and enjoy the view, North Carolina has the perfect road for you. It’s a great place for anyone who loves to drive and explore
Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a mecca for sports car enthusiasts. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
The parkway’s well-maintained roads and gentle curves provide the perfect setting for a leisurely drive, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The adventurers regularly stop at one of the many overlooks along the way to take in the panoramic views and capture some memorable photos.
Tail of the Dragon
For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, look no further than the Tail of the Dragon. Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, this 11-mile stretch of road features a staggering 318 curves, earning it the title of “America’s number one motorcycle and sports car road.”
With its tight turns and scenic views, the Tail of the Dragon offers a thrilling challenge for even the most seasoned drivers. However, due to its popularity, the road can get crowded, so it is advised to plan the visit during off-peak times to avoid traffic.
Cherohala Skyway
Connecting the town of Robbinsville, North Carolina, with Tellico Plains, Tennessee, the Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile scenic byway that winds through the Cherokee National Forest and Nantahala National Forest. Known for its sweeping curves and stunning mountain vistas, the Cherohala Skyway offers a peaceful and scenic drive that is perfect for sports car enthusiasts.
Along the way, the explorers pass through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and over mountain streams, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the area’s natural beauty.
In addition to the exhilarating drives, North Carolina is home to exciting entertainment options like North Carolina sports betting, making it a perfect destination for sports cars and betting enthusiasts. After a day of scenic drives, unwind with some exciting sports betting action, adding an extra layer of excitement to your North Carolina adventure.
Outer Banks Scenic Byway
For a coastal drive like no other, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway is the ideal destination. This 138-mile route takes you along the barrier islands of North Carolina’s coast, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding marshlands.
Charming coastal towns, such as Nags Head and Duck, are the spots where people can stop and explore local shops and restaurants. They also paint beautiful scenery in the Outerbanks that can mesmerize travelers. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must-visit place. It is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Outer Banks, where the riders can take a stroll along the pristine beaches that line the route.
Bairds Creek Road
Bairds Creek Road in Boone is a shorter drive but offers a thrilling experience. It begins with a sharp turn-off NC-105, providing immediate views of the mountains and Willow Valley resort. The road starts with a straight stretch before turning into a series of challenging blind curves, sudden elevation changes, and narrow lanes.
The road’s condition may test even the best suspension systems, requiring constant shifting. A recommended detour at the end of Bairds Creek Road is NC-194 to Valle Crucis, a small community known for its farmers and B&Bs. Despite the low speed limit, a refreshing Cheerwine at Mast General Store is the perfect conclusion to your journey.
Mountain Waters Scenic Byway
Being the longest highway in North Carolina, US-64 offers a diverse experience for all travelers. It stretches from the Tennessee border, conveniently close to the Tail of the Dragon, all the way to the Outer Banks, showcasing the variety of terrain the state has to offer.
The eastern part of US-64 passes through hog country, with expansive farms and tobacco fields lining the route. Heading west, the landscape becomes more varied, especially around the ancient Uwharries near Asheboro. This area features rolling hills, light traffic, and occasional stoplights, making it ideal for a spirited drive.
In the far western region, US-64 transitions into US-321, which offers a more enjoyable drive, particularly on the twisty stretch between Franklin and Murphy. This 65-mile section is officially known as the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, named for the numerous waterfalls along the route.
Final Thoughts
North Carolina’s diverse landscapes and scenic routes make it a paradise for sports car enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a winding mountain road or the tranquility of a coastal drive, the state offers a variety of options to suit every driving style. A huge number of professional racers and casual speedsters visit these places every year to experience these diverse and fantastic sports car routes and destinations.
