Times of the Year

Late October through Early April

Weather can be a problem most of the time between late October and early April. There can be good riding days in this time frame, but you can encounter snow, ice, cold rain, and sandy roads. We have seen snow as early as Halloween and as late as April 15.

Early April through Late May

A good time to ride the Dragon before the summer crowds arrive. Traffic is usually light. Weather can be extremely good. Trees leaf-out in late April, so before that you still have good views of approaching curves and traffic. The last weekend in April can be busy with the Harley Rally in Cherokee attracting many bikers.

June through the middle of August

This is family vacation time and the traffic picks-up on the Dragon. There is usually good weather with warm pavement. This is the time that law enforcement usually tightens, especially if there has been a rash of injuries/deaths. Honda Hoot fills the Dragon in June. Weekends find many bikes here if you are looking for the “show”.

Mid-August through September

Many vacationers have departed to get their kids back in school, but traffic is still above average. Rain can interfere in August. Opening season for bear hunting is a good weekend to avoid (usually around September 21). Lean on the Dragon and Harley Rally in Cherokee make for a busy September weekend.

October

Leaf lookers invade the mountains. Slow cars and heavier than usual traffic can interfere with good Dragon runs, especially on the weekends.

Best Fall Colors

Best color times are hard to pin point. It has been late in recent years.... first week in November. You will see various stages of color at different elevations anytime from October 15 to November 15.
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Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are the slowest car and cycle days. Monday and Friday see somewhat higher car and cycle traffic. Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays see the most car and cycle traffic. Expect more trucks from Monday through Friday.

The least traffic on the Dragon is before 11 am and after 5 pm. Heaviest traffic is noon to 3 pm. Night riding on the Dragon can be an interesting experience.