The historic Tapoco Lodge in Robbinsville, North Carolina, sits at the base of the Tail of the Dragon, an 11-mile section of U.S. Route 129 known for its 318 curves. This stretch, free of intersecting roads or driveways, cuts through the Great Smoky Mountains and Nantahala National Forest, and is legendary in the motorcycling community. Established in 1930, the lodge serves as a practical stopover for those navigating this demanding road.
An alternative approach to the Tapoco Lodge is the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile National Scenic Byway that crosses the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. Rising to an altitude above 5400 feet, the Cherohala Skyway features long, arcing corners and passes through mountainous terrain. Its elevation and forested surroundings make it a notable option for motorcyclists heading to or from Tapoco Lodge.
The lodge property spans 120 acres along the Cheoah River. Its history is tied to the Tallassee Power Company, which built it to house workers for nearby hydroelectric projects. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2004, the Tapoco Lodge property includes the original main lodge and later additions, including cabins.
Originally a utilitarian outpost for dam workers, Tapoco Lodge has expanded over decades—cabins in the mid-20th century, a theater and tennis court by the 1990s—while retaining its functional design.
There are 27 rooms available—six in the lodge, three suites, and 18 cabin units. The accommodations combine basic modern amenities with the structure’s early 20th-century framework.
On-site, the Tapoco Tavern provides dining with a view of the river, serving items such as brick-oven pizzas, steaks, and local trout, alongside a full bar. The property also offers 11 miles of private hiking trails, a tennis court, and seasonal activities such as canoeing, fishing, and mountain biking to satisfy a significant other who prefers you ride solo.
The parking area of the Tapoco Lodge frequently hosts a mix of motorcycles and performance automobiles, reflecting the lodge’s draw for motoring enthusiasts.
Its location, minutes from the Tail of the Dragon’s southern end, positions the historic Tapoco Lodge as a well-equipped base for riders tackling the iconic route. Rates in early summer start at about $325 per night. For motorcyclists, the lodge offers a straightforward stop with essential features, leveraging its proximity to one of the region’s most technical roads.
