Any information on this road would be greatly appreciated. And I have been burning the midnight oil surfing the internet for as much information as I can. But you just can’t beat first hand info. Well if you know where Cades Cove is then you may know the road I am speaking about. Can this road be ridden in and Harley touring model and an hack? I can’t get a for sure answer, as to how many water crossing there are, and I do remember awhile back reading a story about a couple that did this route by accident two up on an Harley Ultra Classic. So any information will be greatly appreciated.
turtleman
Hello Turtleman,
I know the road you speak of. Parsons Branch runs from "Cades Cove" and dumps you onto Rt 129. My Brother and I have been visiting the "Dragon" and "Cherohala Skyway" for the last 6 years and always enjoyed the area and people. We usually stay at least one night at "Punkin Motorcyle Center", right on RT 129 (only 9 miles from the "start' of the "Dragon"!). Anyhoo, I've asked Jodi (the proprieter of PMC along with his wife Sheri), about Parsons Branch (Jodi grew up in the Area), and he advised against anyone taking a "Harley Bagger" down the PBR. Of course he went on to reccomend an outfit that rents KLR 650's down there.
Another source would be from these Cats.
http://www.easttnriders.com/forum/index.php Eastern Tennesee Riders.
They ride these Mountain Roads like nobodies business and as a bonus, a great group of Riders [ ymmv 😉 ]
and just so it's known, I have no interest in either Punkin Motorcyle Center, nor with Eastern Tennesee Riders.
Regards,
Russell
Man, I haven't been in Cade's Cove for years. Pigeon Forge was still an unknown bump in the road. Brings back some memories.
There used to be a motorcycle camp ground outside Gatlinburg, east on 321. You had to cross over a very narrow bridge to get to it.
I'm guessing it's long gone. Does anyone know, or remember it?
Thanks Russell, guess I won't try it for now in the Harley.........lol.......just need to raise the suspenision a little..........
