The End of the Dragon's Tail (But Not the Adventure!)
Okay, folks, this is the last of the Tail of the Dragon tales... for now, at least! 😉 It was an absolute blast hanging out with my friends, sharing laughs and epic rides. From conquering the Dragon multiple times to exploring the Cherohala Skyway and other hidden gems in the area, this trip was pure gold. But with a tinge of sadness, it was time to head back to reality.
Packing Up and Saying Goodbye
The feels
We packed up our campsite (and my cozy cabin!), said our goodbyes, and prepped for the long journey home. As I stuffed my overpacked bags (seriously, who needs three pairs of jeans for a weekend trip?! 🤦♂️), I vowed to pack lighter next time. With a final glance at the breathtaking scenery, I crawled into my comfy bed for one last peaceful night's sleep.
The Sunrise Ride Home
Bike is loaded
Do you see all the knots, LOL
Had to pull over for the sunrise
The next morning, I woke up before the sun, eager to hit the road. I tiptoed out of my cabin with my gear, careful not to wake my snoozing friends. After securing my (slightly less overflowing) bags to the bike, I rolled down the hill with the engine off, a silent farewell to the Dragon's Tail.
With my earbuds pumping out an inspiring audiobook, I watched the sunrise paint the sky as I cruised through the countryside. The miles flew by, punctuated by the occasional gas stop struggle (that premium fuel life, am I right?). Before I knew it, I was back home, feeling refreshed and recharged.
The trip back from Rever
Parked and at home.
A Fiery Welcome Home
But wait, there's more! Just as I was settling back into my apartment, a fire broke out in a neighboring building. 🔥🚒 Thankfully, my place was spared, but the early morning alarms and the sight of firefighters battling the blaze were a rude awakening. Talk about an unexpected homecoming!
The evacuation
Have to stop for the motorcycles
The block that caught on fire at my apartments
The firefighters giving us a brief.
The Adventure Continues...
My balcony in Shirlington, Virginia.
Despite the fiery welcome, I couldn't help but smile. The Dragon's Tail had left an indelible mark on my soul. I had faced challenges, conquered fears, and forged lasting friendships. And the best part? This was just the beginning of my motorcycle adventures.
Up next: Winterizing Your Ride: Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Bike Happy During the Off-Season
Want to learn more about my experiences with the Distinguished Gentleman's Ride and how motorcycling supports men's mental health? Check out this article: How Motorcycling Supports Men's Mental Health
