New riders

[LKLD]

Day: 3

Another absolutely beautiful day, with temps starting in the lower 60's, on up to upper 70's. We started with our 3 season jackets in the morning, but ended up with our mesh jackets in the afternoon. Comfortable the whole day!

We started mid-morning heading to Athens, TN, about 25 miles west of us, to get a couple of charging cords for our Contour Action cameras at Radio Shack. Athens was a bit busy with traffic, redlights, and such, because of all the stores there.

After getting the charging cords, we high-tailed it outta there. Got on I-75s headed toward Cleveland, TN, to find a restaurant to eat at. It was almost 1:00p by the time we arrived at City Cafe. It looked like a 50's themed place from the outside, but inside wasn't for some odd reason. They sat us down at a table for 6 (also odd), and handed us a book for a menu. Oh-my-God...the choices! It seemed endless! It's a 24hr kinda of place, but they had Italian and Greek food, along with a myriad of American fare, including breakfast. Marie had the eggs Benedict, which she said was very well done, and I had a sausage omelette. We were full, as the portions were bountiful. Then we saw the cake "menu". Are you kidding me? There had to be a selection of more than 30 different cakes, excluding the 15 or so different cheesecake! We got a slice a piece, but they were huge slices, so we took the rest with us. We were VERY impressed with this place indeed.

We left Cleveland and headed east on 64, through Ocoee, and along the Ocoee River. The Ocoee River had rapids, and was full of kayakers. 64 paralleled the twisty river's every move. It was wonderful to ride.

We continued on 64 eastwards toward Murphy, NC. Just before Murphy, we decided to take a rural backroad (294) back towards Tellico. Again with more rural farms and ranches, with hardly a soul in sight. We could go as fast or as slow as we wanted.

294 got us back onto 68, which runs north to Tellico. The Sidewinder 68 is so much fun, with short intervals between each curve, you can leave in in 3rd gear most of the way. And this time Marie hugged behind me most of the way, having us looking synchronized through every turn. Her confidence is now really up there, with laying the bike over in the curves.

Once back in Tellico, we got on Cherohala Skyway for a tiny bit, so I could take her to see Bald River Falls. Just a few miles down a meandering road, takes you right on top of it. It was flowing with ferocity, having that waterfall noise that would make for a good night's sleep. After a few photos and video, we headed back to Tellico.

Came back, and had dinner, even though we both weren't really hungry. Thought we would just get a salad, but for $9.99-$12.99, we decided to just get an entrée for $8.99 each...go figure.

These last few days have exhausted us a bit. Over 1,100 miles so far, and we're starting to feel it. So, we might have a down day tomorrow to catch up a bit. Plus, our friend from Cleveland TN. is coming over for a visit tomorrow, which we are looking forward to. Then Monday we'll be spending time with family at Lookout Mountain.

Yep, tomorrow will be a down day.....unless.

 

[Heen]

LKLD - I have enjoyed reading about your trip. Keep having Fun.

 

[YummYam]

Sounds like you are both enjoying yourselves, that's great. Shame about the photo's, we will have to meet up and take a look.

 

[LKLD]

Day:4

A down day to relax, and catch up on laundry.

Day:5

So I'm up at 5:40a, in the shower and dressed by 7:00a. Marie awoke just after 6:00a, and too jumped into gear, and if you know Marie, that's saying something.

After a bagel and some coffee, we load up to get gas. By 8:10a we were off and running!

Taking 39 again out of Tellico, we turned south on 411 out of Etowah, headed for Lookout Mountain, just south of Chattanooga, TN. Marie's mom, 2 sisters, and nephew were also visiting up this way for a change of pace. We arrived at the Mansion on the Mountain, that Marie's nephew had rented for them, around 10:15a. What a place it was!! A large 2 or 3 story home on the top of Lookout Mountain, with vistas from the back that went for at least a 100 miles! This place was incredible! After brief hello's and hugs, they loaded up in her nephew's car, and Marie and I on our bikes, headed to Ruby Falls.

We arrived 20 minutes later, and got to park right up front. After her nephew got the tickets for us all (thank you Chad), we loaded onto an elevator to take us down into the mountain. Ahead of us was a 1/2 mile walk, through the mountain, to get to the falls. It wasn't an easy walk, especially for Marie's 82 old mother Betty. Through sometimes very tight and twisty pathways, we all meandered through the stalactites and stalagmites to get to the falls. Finally we made it about 40 minutes later, and we weren't disappointed. At first it was dark, and you could only hear the falls, but then the light show started, along with music, and behold...a huge waterfall within a mountain! It was magnificent!

After only 8 minutes of viewing, we had to head back. Betty was feeling the exhaustion setting in, but this 'tough as nails lady' wasn't about to let it beat her. With just a little help, and encouragement, from all of us, Betty walked a mile total through the very uneven path of the mountain.

Once we all caught our breath, we headed to Logan's Roadhouse for some calories, because of some odd reason, we were all hungry.

After a wonderful meal, that didn't come fast enough for anyone, most everyone indulged in some dessert (again Chad, thank you very much!).

Chad, Betty, Carol, and Polly (both being Marie's sisters) headed to Rock City for more adventure, but Marie and I needed to get back to Tellico, so as to not be on back roads at night, so we said our goodbyes.

Once we were out of Chattanooga, we took 64E into Ducktown, then 68 into Tellico, having a bit of fun on 68 again.

It was a wonderful time spent with Marie's family, and I feel fortunate to have them.

Tomorrow we leave Tellico, to begin the next chapter of our biking adventure, stay tuned...

 

[LKLD]

Day:6

I was up at 8:00a, I know, I know, I'm acting like I'm on vacation. Marie was awakened after I showered, so she could get her a** in gear. Surprisingly, we got everything loaded up in record time. Much faster than when we first loaded up leaving Florida. After saying our goodbyes to Walt and his dog Rambo, we hit the road again.

We rode the Cherohala Skyway to Robbinsville, NC., got gas and then got on 19 headed to Cherokee. Once in Cherokee, we got on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is one of the most beautiful roads anywhere! We stopped at the highest point on the BRP for photo and video opportunities, when an elderly man on a Goldwing started talking to us. He must have been a lonely man, as he wanted to talk forever, or so it seemed.

After that, we went directly to find the nearest restroom, as our morning coffees were begging for attention. Luckily, I had the one spot we could go programmed into my GPS. So after some sorely needed relief, we continued on.

After a few miles, we came across the Pisgah Inn. The one, and only, place on the BRP to have a place to eat. It's a very unique place that has lodging and a restaurant on the BRP. With a pane-window view of the mountains, Marie and I had a wonderful lunch. Monte Christo sandwich for her, and the pot pie for me.

It was then time to get to our destination, Maggie Valley. After unloading the bikes, we chilled a bit at the bar, or at least, I did.

We ate salads to compensate for the meal earlier, but they were so large, I don't think they did. Using the motel's wi-fi, we caught up with what is going on back home. Tomorrow isn't going to be sunny, but also no rain expected, so we'll find some seriously twisted roads to ride.

A wonderful day, with a wonderful wife.

 

[LKLD]

Day:7

Well, we got up somewhat early (8:00ish), out the door, got gas, and then to Staples to get more memory cards. Hopped on 276 to the BRP. On the way there, Marie had a little scare, as she went around a inside curve, glanced at her speedometer, looked up, and realized she had drifted into the other lane a bit. A car was in the other lane, but Marie didn't panic, and avoided any incident. It scared her a little, but being the woman she is, she felt she learned a valuable lesson that she won't soon forget.

Once on the BRP, we headed east towards Asheville. A stop or 2 to take in the views, but east we were headed. Temps on the mountains hovered between 64-70, but Marie was prepared, by having a couple of shirts to layer with. Once on the other side of Mt. Mitchell, we took NC 80 off of the BRP. 80 was an absolutely beautiful road to take, with sharp curves and hairpins at the top, to gently rolling sweepers farther down the mountain. The pavement was pristine, which makes it much more enjoyable. Another gas stop in Marion, and we were headed back up the mountain. This time we took 226a, which is another excellent road, but the curves are a little tighter, and steeper than 80, which requires all of your attention. But, on the way there, we were on a two lane road, with some traffic, we I look back and see an animal cross in front of Marie! At the same time I hear Marie, through my helmet communicator, say "Oh sh*#!!". Well, wouldn't you know it, a beaver decided to cross the road! She just missed running it over by grabbing a little brakes. Just like Marie, she thought it was "So cool!".

That took us to Little Switzerland, NC. A very small village on top of the mountain, with a few artsy stores, and a quaint little cafe, known for their salmon, trout, and barbecue. Marie and I went for the barbecue, and weren't disappointed. Along with the Cheeseboard tray for an appetizer, we felt completely satiated, with some left over to take back to the motel for later.

Back on the BRP, heading west back to Maggie Valley, the sun was a welcome guest along our ride, as the temps dipped to 62 degrees. Still riding the mountains at 6:30, it was time to get off. So NC 215, which Marie remembers from our last time, was our exit point from the mountain. Another technical road, with plenty of twisties, lead us back into Waynesvillle. Then a short ride from there to Maggie Valley, and we are exhausted.

Time for a drink, or two, and to reminisce over another wonderful day of riding in the mountains.

Day: 8

We got up later, as our plans had us staying locally. After our Day: 7 ride, we felt it today.

Got dressed, gear together, and loaded up by 10:30a. Marie was feeling hungry, so we went looking for breakfast. Marie thought a local place, just down the road, had breakfast, so we went there. Turned off Soco rd. (The main road here) into the driveway of the restaurant, going up hill, then a sharp turn to the left going back down hill. It was a bit hairy, as we were basically walking the bikes, which is when they're easy to tip over. I got through, and waited for Marie. This maneuver scared her, but she did it without dropping the bike. All this, just to find out they were closed!

So off to Waynesvillle, to find the Waffle House. Finished our breakfast, and got to the bikes to put our gear on, when a lady approached us. She said " I know you don't know me, but I would like to say a prayer for you, if that's ok?". Marie said " Sure.", so the lady held Marie's hand (I was too far away to hold hands) and proceeded to say a short prayer. When she finished, she said "God bless you both.", and walked away. Marie and I were a little shocked at first, then just smiled at one another, thinking how different it was up here, than back home.

Leaving the Waffle House, with a blessing, we headed to the Wheels Through Time motorcycle museum back in Maggie Valley. It calls itself a motorcycle museum, but really it's a Harley Davidson museum. In there, were at least 100 HD's and some Indians and other antique bikes and cars. Many of which the owner would start up on request. It really was interesting to see the progression that HD had over the years, especially from the beginning of 1 cylinder engines in bicycle frames.

From there, back to Waynesvillle, specifically its downtown. It's a quaint Main St., with parking on the side, and rows of stores. Some nouveau, while others have been there a long time, selling artwork, antiques, gifts, etc..

We went into Mast's General Store, which is a large 3 story building. The third floor was camping and hiking equipment, the second floor was clothing, and the first floor was candy and miscellaneous toys, kitchenware, candles, and gifts. Marie found some local jams that she wanted, so after buying them, we hoof it to the local Post Office to ship them home. Upon arrival, and getting the necessary supplies, the man behind the counter struck up a conversation with us, as I was doing the packing, and come to find out he's originally from Auburndale! After talking Polk county for 10 minutes or so, we shipped our package home. I hope I packed it good enough, as it was all glass jars.

After that we ventured into a local brewpub, to try their beer, and Marie wanted to sample their cheese plate. While we sat there, we struck up a conversation with the 2 girls behind the counter. It was interesting to hear their stories of how they settled down in this area. One of them was from Sarasota, and we were told the pub's owner is also from Florida. Floridians are everywhere up here!

It was getting around 5:00p, so we headed back to the motel. We had reservations for 7:30p at the motel's restaurant, I didn't think we needed it, but was told it would be advisable for Thursday night. While getting showered and dressed, I peeked out the window to see the parking lot full! Walked down the hallway, into the restaurant, and low and behold, it was packed full of people! We had a booth reserved for us, and good thing to, as there was no room to sit. It seems that on Thursday night they have an all-you-can-eat buffet. Every person in Maggie Valley, over 60, was there. They even had a duo performing a variety of songs, but mainly old songs that would like.

Marie and I were amazed at the food, she having steak, and myself having Fettuccine Alfredo. A wonderfully charred steak, cooked perfectly, and fettuccine with homemade sauce was to die for. We didn't finish our plates, as there was too much for us to eat. However, once the waitress mentioned to us about the homemade peach cobbler, we had to try it. It came ala mode, with a golden brown crust covering all of it. Seriously, this cobbler was a piece of heaven!! We just kept saying to each other "Oh my God!", while our eyes would roll back into our heads with each delectable bite. Again, there was too much, so we left some on the plate. Though we wanted to eat it all.

Feeling satisfied with the day, we returned to our room, watched a little news to catch up, and then to sleep.

Another great day for us.

Day: 9

Rain. So we just stayed in and did laundry. Hung around the room, and bored to death. Had dinner at the motel, and of course cobbler (Apple this time). It was sooooooo good!!!

Back to the room to pack, while we get more rain. Hopefully tomorrow it's all gone. This is the sad time when you realize it's coming to an end.

 

[Redfish Hunter]

Good to hear you are having a good time. Please soak up all the rain so there will be none left when I get up there next weekend.

 

[LKLD]

Thanks, we're having a blast! Marie and I are beyond ourselves excited about this trip. I hope that you have as much luck, as we have had with weather.

Enjoy!

 

[Niehart]

However, once the waitress mentioned to us about the homemade peach cobbler, we had to try it. It came ala mode, with a golden brown crust covering all of it. Seriously, this cobbler was a piece of heaven!! We just kept saying to each other "Oh my God!", while our eyes would roll back into our heads with each delectable bite. Again, there was too much, so we left some on the plate. Though we wanted to eat it all.
Another great day for us.

Day: 9

Had dinner at the motel, and of course cobbler (Apple this time). It was sooooooo good!!!

Now that's a ride report and now I'm wish there were pictures.

 

[wheatonFJR]

Yeah, which motel had the cobbler? That's what I wanna know.

 

[Heen]

Please share a few pics when you get back.

 

[Uncle Hud]

<jealous>

 

[LKLD]

I will have to post photos when I get home, uploading from iPhone causes.jpeg.

The delicious cobbler was at the Maggie Valley Inn & CC restaurant (think EOM).

 

[LKLD]

Day:10

It was really difficult to get motivated this morning. Got up at 6:00a, showered and loaded the gear up. Kick stands up at 7:45a, and onto 23 south out of Maggie Valley. A cool 48 degrees, made Marie wish she had heated grips. 23 runs consecutively with 441, which we stayed on so Marie didn't have to worry about Atlanta. Some dense fog early on, gave way to blue skies and 50's. Traffic was sparse, as was the stops, as we had luck with the redlights.

Finally got something to eat in Madison, Ga., which was long overdue. Temps were up in the 70's, so switched from 3 season jackets to mesh, much better! Continuing on 441, we had our last gas stop at Fargo, GA, and started looking for motels around Lake City, Fl.. Marie wanted to go a little farther, so Gainesville was going to be it.

We should have done Lake City, as most all the motels in Gainesville (off I-75) were full. Prices are through the roof around here, as an example, a Best Western quoted me $208, for 1 night!! They were full too! Ended up at a Holiday Inn Express for $199 a night. If not for Marie being so tired, I would've gone another 20 miles to get that down to half that. Happy wife, happy life... trumps all rational thought.

So in for the night, with a 3 hour ride tomorrow to get us home.

Life is good.

 

[hppants]

Wonderful to read this today. It sounds like you are having a great time. Safe ride home tomorrow and we are looking forward to seeing the pictures.

 

[wheatonFJR]

Just a warning...this ride report isn't done until you spill the beans on which hotel had the cobbler.

Jes Sayin!

 

[Redfish Hunter]

Just a warning...this ride report isn't done until you spill the beans on which hotel had the cobbler. Jes Sayin!

He actually did let that secret out. Post #112

I will have to post photos when I get home, uploading from iPhone causes.jpeg.

The delicious cobbler was at the Maggie Valley Inn & CC restaurant (think EOM).

And I took careful note of it!

 

[wheatonFJR]

THANKS.

Whew...cobbler run in the near future.

 

[Redfish Hunter]

Exactly. I am guessing either Sunday May 1st or Monday May 2nd for me. With my luck it will be raining. Not that I mind riding in the rain but when it rains on me in that area that Ronnie Milsap song keeps playing in my head and it gets old quickly.

 

[LKLD]

THANKS.
Whew...cobbler run in the near future.

Be prepared to wait for it, about 15 minutes. It isn't a warm-it-up-in-the-microwave dish, they only make it on an order request...in an oven. :grin:
P.S. Get it ala mode, with the French vanilla ice cream!