Chasing Curves on Moonshiner 28 in North Carolina
North Carolina SR 28—often called Moonshiner 28—is one of the Southeast’s most legendary motorcycle roads. Stretching roughly 112 miles from Deals Gap to Walhalla, SC, this twisting ribbon of pavement cuts through the heart of the Smoky Mountains and offers motorcyclists a thrilling ride.
The northern end of SR 28 begins at Deals Gap, the gateway to the Tail of the Dragon. But for those in the know, the ride doesn’t end—or begin—with those famous 318 curves in 11 miles.
Moonshiner 28 is the perfect complement to the Dragon. It’s a longer, more scenic ride that still delivers plenty of heart-pounding curves and elevation changes, but with more sweepers and a flow that invites you to settle in for the ride.
Heading south from Deals Gap, Moonshiner 28 plunges into the woods, curving around the banks of Fontana Lake. From there, it becomes even more engaging as it winds along the Little Tennessee River, skirting the edge of the Nantahala National Forest.
What makes SR 28 so appealing to riders is its balance. There are tight, technical turns that challenge your skills, but they’re interspersed with faster, flowing sections that let you relax and enjoy the ride.
The pavement is generally in good condition, and traffic is often light, especially compared to nearby tourist hotspots.
Beyond its riding appeal, Moonshiner 28 is steeped in Appalachian history. The road gets its nickname from the bootleggers who once ran illegal whiskey through these hills during Prohibition.
SR 28 passes through both Franklin and Highlands, NC, both towns are popular for motorcyclists due to their small-town feel complete with nice places to stay and good restaurants.
Dropping south out of Highlands, Moonshiner 28 crosses the Georgia and South Carolina borders and continues to carry you through twists, turns, and gorgeous views all the way through Walhalla, SC.
Points of Interest
Deals Gap Store
Located at the northern terminus of SR 28, the Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort is a pilgrimage site for riders. Known as the gateway to the Tail of the Dragon, this store and resort serve as the launchpad for one of the most thrilling stretches of road in the country.
The store itself is packed with rider essentials, from gear and souvenirs to cold drinks and snacks. Out front, you’ll find the iconic Tree of Shame and a steady stream of motorcycles lining the lot.
Whether you're picking up a T-shirt, chatting with fellow riders, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Deals Gap is the kind of place that buzzes with two-wheeled energy. For those riding Moonshiner 28, it’s both a perfect start and satisfying finish.
The Dam Garage
The Dam Garage on SR 28 in Fontana Dam is a must-stop if riding Moonshiner 28. Nestled right at the entrance to Fontana Village, this full-service pit stop offers diesel, premium, and regular fuel, plus grab‑and‑go snacks, hot coffee, draft beer on tap, and freshly baked goods like muffins and cinnamon rolls.
For lunch or a mid-ride break, pick up a pulled‑pork barbecue sandwich, cheeseburger, or savory biscuit sandwich—all freshly prepared on-site. Beyond food and fuel, the garage stocks auto supplies, oil, and souvenirs and apparel commemorating conquering the Dragon or Moonshiner 28. Open daily, it’s a great place to refuel rider and bike alike.
Dry Falls
Just off SR 28 near Highlands, Dry Falls is one of the region’s most breathtaking and accessible natural attractions. True to its name, Dry Falls allows visitors to walk behind the cascading curtain of water without getting drenched (well, mostly).
The short, paved trail from the parking area leads you directly behind the 75-foot drop, where the roar of the Cullasaja River surrounds you and mist hangs in the air. It’s a great stop for riders wanting to stretch their legs, snap some photos, and connect with the natural beauty of the area.
The falls are part of the larger Cullasaja Gorge, a stretch of dramatic scenery carved through ancient rock. While the pull-off is small, it’s well worth the stop, and the cool mountain air and thundering water are a refreshing break from the saddle.
Downtown Highlands
Sitting at over 4,000 feet in elevation, the town of Highlands is a surprising blend of upscale charm and rugged mountain spirit. As you cruise south on SR 28, the forest opens into this quaint, walkable downtown filled with boutiques, cafes, galleries, and inviting green spaces.
For riders, Highlands offers a top-notch mid-ride break or overnight destination, complete with excellent dining options, gas stations, and even a few motorcycle-friendly lodging choices. The historical architecture, flower-lined sidewalks, and shaded benches make it a relaxing place to park the bike and explore on foot. Whether you're grabbing an espresso, hunting for handcrafted souvenirs, or just enjoying the cool air at elevation, downtown Highlands is a memorable highlight along Moonshiner 28.
Facts & Information
Recommended Lodging: Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort
A legendary base camp for riders tackling the Tail of the Dragon, Deals Gap Resort offers basic, biker-friendly lodging, a grill, and a gear shop. The Deals Gap Resort is all about location—right at the start of SR 28 and US 129, surrounded by twisty mountain roads and motorcycle fanatics.
Recommended Lodging: Fontana Village Resort
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains just off SR 28, the Fontana Village Resort blends rustic charm with modern amenities. It features cabins, lodge rooms, dining, fuel, and more, making it a convenient and comfortable overnight stop for riders exploring western North Carolina’s scenic backroads.
Recommended Lodging: Outpost Inn Highlands
A cozy, modern retreat with a back-country edge, the Outpost Inn offers boutique lodging near downtown Highlands. With motorcycle-friendly parking, stylish rooms, and proximity to waterfalls and curvy roads, this inn blends mountain serenity with upscale comfort for riders touring Moonshiner 28.
Food & Dining
Food along Moonshiner 28 is a rewarding part of the ride, with plenty of stops to satisfy hungry riders. At the northern end, Dragon’s Den Grill offers quick, no-frills eats like burgers and breakfast sandwiches. Find it at 17548 Tapoco Rd, Robbinsville, NC.
Fontana Village has a more relaxed, sit-down atmosphere with classic American comfort food and mountain views both at Quills Canteen and Hazels. Find them both at 300 Woods Rd, Fontana Dam, NC.
In Franklin, NC, you’ll find a wider variety of dining options, from smoky barbecue joints to casual diners and pizza spots. Farther south, downtown Highlands serves elevated fare and gourmet Southern cuisine at cozy cafes, and charming bakeries.
Why the Name?
Moonshiner 28 got its name from the region’s Prohibition-era history. During the 1920s and ’30s, the remote mountains of western North Carolina were home to illicit distillers—moonshiners—who produced and transported illegal whiskey. The winding, narrow backroads that make up today’s Moonshiner 28 were used to move their product while evading law enforcement. The name honors that colorful, rebellious history, and the route itself still reflects the terrain and curves that made it ideal for fast, secretive drives back in the day. Riding it today, you follow in the path of bootleggers.
Best Time to Travel
Summer and fall are the most common times to travel to this area. In the summer, lots of riders flock to the region to ride the spectacular roads. In the fall, crowds gather to view the change of the leaves. The roads will be most busy on the weekends.