North Carolina Highway 28 N

Wind Your Way Up The Hellbender

Easily accessible from downtown Bryson City, the North Carolina Highway 28 N twists and turns its way through the Smokies and near Fontana Lake, with its hairpin turns, drop-offs and narrow roadway earning it the nickname the Hellbender 28. Popular among motorcyclists, you can access this scenic stretch of roadway by turning out of Bryson City and onto US-74. After 8.2 miles, you’ll make a right turn and begin your trek up curvy NC-28-N.

Need to get out and stretch your legs? There are a couple of pull-offs with scenic views of Fontana Lake. 20 miles into this drive, you’ll come to Fontana Dam, a towering structure that impounded and created Fontana Lake in World War II. Walk or drive across the Dam’s surface to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding, untouched natural landscape. Another nearby spot to explore along this drive is Fontana Village, a beautiful resort not far from the Dam and right along the lake that has comfortable accommodations, multiple dining options, a marina, mini-golf and more.

Just past Fontana Village, Highway 28 continues north until it dead ends at Highway 129.Look for the Llewellyn Boat Ramp - a very scenic mountain/lake view at the base of Fontana Dam, looking down Cheoah Lake. Continue along Highway 28 North for a scenic drive alongside Cheoah Lake. At the Highway 129 intersection, a right turn here takes you along the Tail of the Dragon, an out-and-back curvy road. A left turn takes you south toward Robbinsville, where you'll pass the scenic Lake Santeetlah before you pick up Highway 143 to return to Highway 28 South and back toward Bryson City.