From the legendary Tail of the Dragon to old-growth forests and pristine mountain lakes — Hickory Hideout puts you at the center of Western North Carolina's best outdoor adventures.
Driving & RidingNational ParksWater & RecreationHiking & NatureGuided ExperiencesLocal Town
Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap
Driving & Riding
20 minutes from Hickory Hideout
The most famous motorcycle and sports car road in America — 318 curves in 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains on US Route 129. Riders and drivers travel from all over the world to experience the Dragon. Hickory Hideout is one of the closest luxury lodging options, with a covered carport to protect your prized vehicle and a car wash station for post-ride detailing.
318 curves in 11 miles on US-129
Killboy Photography captures your ride
The Tree of Shame at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort
Connected to the Cherohala Skyway for a full day of riding
A 43-mile National Scenic Byway that climbs above 5,000 feet, rivaling the Blue Ridge Parkway with far less traffic. Sweeping mountain vistas, pull-off overlooks, and gentle curves through the Nantahala and Cherokee National Forests. Often paired with the Tail of the Dragon for a legendary full-day loop.
43 miles of scenic mountain highway
Elevations above 5,000 feet
Multiple overlooks with panoramic views
Connects Robbinsville, NC to Tellico Plains, TN
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
National Parks
1 hour from Hickory Hideout
America's most visited national park is within an hour's drive. Over 800 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife (including black bears and elk), and some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the Southeast. Access via Fontana Dam, Clingmans Dome, and the Newfound Gap road.
800+ miles of hiking trails
Clingmans Dome — highest point in Tennessee
Elk viewing in Cataloochee Valley
World-class fall foliage (October)
No entrance fee required
Fontana Lake & Dam
Water & Recreation
40 minutes from Hickory Hideout
Fontana Dam is the tallest dam in the eastern United States at 480 feet. The pristine mountain lake below is surrounded by undeveloped forest — no houses, no docks, just pure wilderness. Kayak, canoe, fish for smallmouth bass, or simply take in the views from one of the most scenic spots in the Smokies.
Tallest dam in the eastern US (480 ft)
Pristine, undeveloped mountain lake
Boat rentals and kayak launches available
Smallmouth bass, walleye, and musky fishing
Appalachian Trail crosses the dam
Yellow Creek Falls & Waterfalls
Hiking & Nature
15–30 minutes from Hickory Hideout
The mountains around Robbinsville are home to dozens of waterfalls. Yellow Creek Falls is a quick, easy hike from the cabin — a 50-foot cascade into a pool. For more adventure, explore Bridal Veil Falls, Dry Falls, and Whitewater Falls in the greater Nantahala region.
Yellow Creek Falls — 50 ft, easy hike
Bridal Veil Falls — drive behind the waterfall
Nantahala Gorge waterfalls
Swimming holes and cascades
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
Hiking & Nature
35 minutes from Hickory Hideout
One of the last remaining old-growth forests in the eastern United States. Walk among 400-year-old tulip poplars and hemlocks on an easy 2-mile loop trail. A humbling, cathedral-like experience that feels like stepping back in time.
Old-growth forest with 400-year-old trees
Easy 2-mile loop trail
Tulip poplars over 100 ft tall and 20 ft in circumference
Free, open year-round
Smoky Mountain Drives — Guided Tours
Guided Experiences
Local from Hickory Hideout
Josh Vandergriff leads unforgettable guided driving tours through the best roads in the Smokies. Perfect for sports car and motorcycle enthusiasts who want to experience the Dragon, Cherohala, and hidden mountain roads with a local expert who knows every curve.
Guided kayak fishing trips on the pristine mountain lakes and rivers around the Smokies. All skill levels welcome — gear provided. A unique way to experience the water and land some mountain trout or smallmouth bass.
The Southeast's premier outdoor adventure center offers whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, zip-lining, mountain biking, and more. The Nantahala Gorge is a bucket-list destination for rafting — gentle enough for families but thrilling for everyone.
The charming small town of Robbinsville is your nearest supply hub — Ingles grocery store, local restaurants, gas stations, and the Graham County courthouse (the smallest county seat in NC). The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center hosts live music and artisan markets.
Ingles Market for groceries and supplies
Local restaurants and BBQ
Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center
Small-town mountain charm
Your Basecamp Awaits
After a day on the Dragon, a hike through old-growth forest, or a sunset on Fontana Lake — come home to heated floors, an indoor jacuzzi, and mountain views. Book direct and save vs. Airbnb.