Im on a 4,000-mile fall trip to Dallas in my 2021 RWD Comp. Ill be coming home through the Ozark Mountains (hoping the leaves will have changed), and then through St. Louis (to see my goddaughters)…then back to MD.
On the way to Dallas (which is where I am now), I went through Tennessee to see my other goddaughter and her new baby, so I spent a day at the Tail.
At the Hub, one of a few gathering places near The Tail, I met a guy in a GT3 RS, and we shared our love of driving. So we went out together. First, I was in front of him, but even with me seriously pressing and pushing my G82, of course I was just slowing him down. So I slid over and let him pass, so I could see if I could keep up with him. And then an Audi R8 joined us and led the way…he was ahead stuck behind a slow Trike. Finally the trike slid over and let us all pass. So the GT3 and I chased the Audi.
Before the Audi joined us, the GT3 was so much faster in the corners, of course, carrying 10+ mph more than me. But my G82 held its own and stayed relatively close, but at one point…he was just gone.
We caught up to the trapped Audi, and then a 997 and a new Supra was behind me. So we had a nice group of 5. But along the way, the Audi, GT3 and me pulled far ahead of the 997 and the new Supra. I know the Tail pretty well, so part of my advantage is me simply having Tail driving experience in a variety of cars over the years. And FWIW, my G82 has Michelin 4S in the front, and a slightly oversized 5S in the rear (295/30/20).
Ultimately, the Audi let the GT3 pass (because he too was just not fast enough for the GT3), and we both ended up chasing the GT3…with me sandwiched in the middle.
So. Much. Fun.
If you love driving, and youre east of the Mississippi, plan a trip to the Tail of the Dragon. You wont regret it. And for 2+ days of pure driving bliss, attend this event: https://ift.tt/LfR8Y14 I have been a few times, and will likely be back in 2026. Its a well-organized, spirited drive through the Smoky Mountains across 3 states with other BMWs. But you can also just relax and enjoy the roads, as theres 3 to 4 different driving groups to choose from, led by experienced drivers who know the area (groups: super spirited, spirited, swift but relaxing, and scenic for those who want to simply dawdle along).
