Chattanooga TN to Flat Rock, NC

[letsxplor]

i'm headed to the Flat Rock music festival at the end of the month, and will be traveling from Birmingham AL, stopping overnight at a friend's in Chattanooga TN and then going to Flat Rock. Looking for advice on a route from Chattanooga to Flat Rock, just south of Asheville.

I'm riding an '06 Bonneville, so want to keep it on the road, but scenic and fun roads. Right now I'm planning to take TN-40 out of Chattanooga, then follow US-64 over to Flat Rock area.

Any site/roads close to that route that I shouldn't miss? Any alternate routes to suggest?

[Outrider]

You almost can't pick a better travel route across the state than that, especially between Franklin and Highlands.

If you have a little extra time, you can add some serious fun by turning north at Brevard on 215, which will take you up to the BRP. You can follow that east a bit and then turn south on 276 which dumps you right back on your original route. That's good riding! DO NOT miss Hawg Wild BBQ at the foot of 276 (N 35° 16.440 W 082° 42.331)...order the East/West combo plate and thank me later.

I've always wondered about the southerly route in that same area...south on NC280/SC130 just past Sapphire, east on 11 (Cherokee Foothills Scenic Pkwy), then north again on 276 thru Ceasars Head State Park adn Cedar Mountain back to 64. Although curious, I've never gone this way because it feels unnatural to ride *away* from the BRP on purpose.

Have a good trip!

[twistydave]

your in the right place to ride. You may want to think about going north another half hour through Sylva and riding the parkway then down on 276 through Brevard. It will take just a little bit longer but no lights or traffic and views. Man good views, swimming hole etc... I just went on 64 from Franklin to flat rock and there is lots more traffic than there use to be and the roads were made for a bike so the cars really slow you down and for me was pretty frustrating compared to the parkway which was relaxing and beautiful. I'll give you some good routes depending on your riding style in this area too. I also have cool remodeled log cabin I rent out in Saluda a few mile through the twisties if your interested. pm me if so and enjoy

[twistydave]

OOO
You could stay on 276 almost to Ceasars head but turn left on Reasonover rd and you will get some dirt to Green river then to Flat rock.

[letsxplor]

Perfect, those suggestions are just what I'm looking for! And I'll try to hit Hawg Wild too.

Thanks!

[Stromin'Nroman]

When you get to Brevard, you can pick up Crab Creek Road off of Hwy 64 which will take you to Bethel Church or Blue Ridge Roads. Either will get you to the Festival more quickly and scenicly (if that's even a word) than the tedious Hwy 64.

If you have a little more time, find a way to East Fork Road just before you get to Brevard. It's actually en-route with a delightfully twisty climb to Greenville Highway.

just PM me if this sounds interesting, there are lots of nice local twisties that are direct, if not the most timely route.

Have Fun, Safe Travels,

Norm

[jonesy54]

Originally Posted by Outrider

You almost can't pick a better travel route across the state than that, especially between Franklin and Highlands.

If you have a little extra time, you can add some serious fun by turning north at Brevard on 215, which will take you up to the BRP. You can follow that east a bit and then turn south on 276 which dumps you right back on your original route. That's good riding! DO NOT miss Hawg Wild BBQ at the foot of 276 (N 35° 16.440 W 082° 42.331)...order the East/West combo plate and thank me later.

I've always wondered about the southerly route in that same area...south on NC280/SC130 just past Sapphire, east on 11 (Cherokee Foothills Scenic Pkwy), then north again on 276 thru Ceasars Head State Park adn Cedar Mountain back to 64. Although curious, I've never gone this way because it feels unnatural to ride *away* from the BRP on purpose.

Have a good trip!

Absolutely. I would also reccoment Hawg Wild. They are doing some construction on 64 in the Cashiers area but its not a huge problem.

276 is incredible. I have done 11 from exit 1 on I-85 to the intersection with 178 in Pickens and it was not that fun. 178 is quite enjoyable however.

I have never done 280 either way. I have always wanted to go north b/c the sign says "steep grades, unpaved road"

[letsxplor]

Stromin, that sounds like fun, will PM you.

Thanks for the hints, everyone.