Get out and drive. It is said all the time, but life is hectic. Finding the time to unplug and leave gets harder before it gets easier. The open road beckons for us car people. Back in May I had the opportunity to unplug and leave town for a few days. I had never been to the Tail of the Dragon and surrounding area so took this as the chance to do it. Of course, having the 1998 Integra Type R around was the logical choice for this adventure.
Its reputation proceeds itself, but the Tail of the Dragon is a vibe. I arrived there specifically on Friday to do the drive up and back a couple of times in hopes to avoid major weekend traffic. Upon getting there I took some time to settle in, and people watch. It is a wild atmosphere even on a Friday. Bikes, cars and enthusiasts of all ranges everywhere. After driving up and down US Route 129 several times it is safe to say it lives up to the hype. It’s not just about the road, it’s about everyone that is there all sharing a common purpose. To enjoy the drive. Not every day do things live up to their hype but I was pleasantly surprised and look forward to going back.
The rest of the weekend was spent on surrounding roads. Moonshiner 28 is a great drive and then of course Cherohala Skyway is worth the trip. Even on Saturday there were stretches of the Cherohala Skyway that I didn’t see another car for 7-8 miles. The end of the day dinner at Tapoco Tavern is the icing on the cake. The right atmosphere, the right fare surrounded by all the enthusiasts.
All in a great trip. I did something like 1600 miles and other than the radiator deciding it life was over on the way home the car was a joy. These trips are all the more memorable when you are doing them in a car you really enjoy owning and driving.
Quick side notes. Alchile Mexican Grill in Ridgeland, SC (Exit 21) is a solid meal stop. And if you are driving back south after your adventures in the Deals Gap area, check out Highway 276 from Hendersonville to Waynesville, it’s incredible.
