Most liked posts in thread: Where are the Gas Stations with the best prices on the way to MOTD

When I get anywhere near the Dragon, if I see a gas station and I'm at 1/2 tank or less, I stop. A bunch of us got hosed way back in 2006 when we expected the Texaco at Fontana to have gas, but their delivery truck broke down, so they started a 'motorcycles only' rule. I had to argue to buy 2 gallons from them (as a motorcycle might), so I could get into Robbinsville for a fill up. We siphoned a good bit of that out on a midnight on the dragon run at the cool down lot (back when every MINI could point their lights skyward) to make sure everyone could get to Robbinsville for gas.

 

I only use Shell 93 and I take the PA turnpike West to Carlisle, PA and get on 81 South and take it all the way to Knoxville TN. My route has no stoplights and avoids all of the I-95 traffic and takes me right to 129. I drive in on the Dragon.

I stop at exits on the way that have Shell fuel but they have several places to stop for fuel at almost every exit. Most times I drive until my bladder is full and my tank is empty. Then I empty one and fill the other.

 

No matter what or where, from that direction top off in or near Maryville (even if it's only a couple of gallons)
Once you leave any of the surrounding towns (Maryville, Robinsville or Bryson City, depending on which way you come in) gas gets considerably more expensive.
Always top off in one of those towns, if you visit during your stay as well.

 

Yup, there is a Shell our group fills up at right before we turn onto 129 on the TN side. It’s after the Walmart as you leave Alcohol / Maryville. You are going to use a lot of fuel in a week a few cents will not matter that much.

 

Rt 81 is a truck route and has plenty of Shell stations and normally the cheapest gas along the way from Ohio.

 

There is an app called 'gas buddy' that may help. I have never used it, but some friends say it works. Dave O. drives down from the Philly 'bergs' and he might know.

 

A good rule is never go back to Fontana without topping off when you have Cell Service. That covers all the areas you may out to see.

It sucks that the gas station on 129 shut down and became a Harley store.
They used to have 24 hr pumps (CC only) and also sold 101 unleaded race fuel.