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Touring the 9 Lakes Region of East Tennessee Motorcycle Ride

March 17, 2025 mcnews Leave a comment

East Tennessee Motorcycle Ride 9 Lakes Region — The historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, one of many historic stops along this East Tennessee motorcycle ride, is surrounded by steep mountainous terrain and thick vegetation. It’s beautiful to look at but inconvenient for prisoners with hopes to escape. (Photos by the author and Jake Williams)

As my husband, Jake, and I packed our saddlebags for a three-day East Tennessee motorcycle ride in the 9 Lakes Region, I realized it would be our first multiday motorcycle journey together. A Saturday cruise on local roads is common for us, but this was new territory.

Day 1: To the Gap

As we exited at Harriman, the tree tunnel of I-40 was shed for the characterful scene of an East Tennessee small town. Mom-and-pop shops and restaurants lined the road, and buildings were brightly painted with murals displaying the town’s history and culture.

Harriman’s streets were soon replaced with riverside riding along the Emory and Clinch rivers. We followed the rivers toward Norris Lake, where we stopped at Hickory Star Marina in search of some grub.

We’d picked an oppressively hot weekend for our trip. Luckily, ice-cold sweet tea flows here like the area’s many rivers, and we had a glass in our hands on the marina’s dockside patio in no time, followed by sandwiches. Norris Lake gleams with a vibrant turquoise resulting from the lake’s depth and purity.

Scan QR codes above or click Day 1, Day 2, or Day 3 to view routes on REVER

We continued north, where the road often rose onto a ridge to reveal views of tree-covered mountainsides before dipping down into refreshing shade alongside cool creeks.

We reached Cumberland Gap with time to explore the town before supper. Our lodging for the night was the Olde Mill Inn Bed and Breakfast, built in the late 1800s along a burbling stream that runs through the town.

Cumberland Gap is the kind of place an artist would use as a retreat to find inspiration and tranquility. We strolled the town, which is surrounded on all sides by Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, and hiked up to Tri-State Peak, where Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky meet. Although the hike was short, it was steep enough to renew our appreciation for our favorite mode of transportation, and we gained respect for the people who used this path to traverse the Appalachians long before the invention of motorized travel.

We slept well that night and woke up to a delicious and filling breakfast served at the long dining table on the inn’s main floor. After pleasant chats with other visitors over coffee, we were on the road again, this time heading south.

Day 2: Carving a Trail

The road toward Tazewell offered gorgeous morning views across the mountains, which its gentle curves and good visibility allow riders to take full advantage of.

We continued through Bean Station and White Pine before taking an exploratory journey in search of the Rankin coaling tower. A remnant of the time when trains were powered by steam, this tower is one of few remaining.

We climbed the steep one-lane Rankin Hill Road and then dropped down toward Douglas Lake. We followed the lake north until the road turned to rough gravel, on which I didn’t feel confident testing my nonexistent off-road skills on the Honda Rebel 1100T DCT cruiser. Jake was happy to continue on his Can-Am Ryker Rally for a mile or so while I guzzled water beside the railroad tracks. I was content to take a break for the first five minutes. After 10, I started missing the breeze through my mesh jacket. After 15, I became worried.

Apparently knowing the exact amount of time I’m willing to wait before embarking on a search-and-rescue attempt, Jake finally rode back into view. He’d found some locals fishing by the lake who told him where to see the tower in the distance, but he would’ve had to wade through shallow water to get near it.

Back on track, we continued to Norris Dam State Park, where we parked in front of Clinch River Brewery beside other motorcycles to have lunch. Just down the road from the brewery and across the dam, an overlook provided a scenic spot to digest our food.

On Old Tennessee 63 heading north, we enjoyed a pleasant and shaded ride alongside Cove Creek and railroad tracks before heading west through Huntsville and on to our destination for the evening, Rugby.

As the speed limit decreased on the way into Rugby, we saw a sign warning us to use caution and slow down for Irish road bowling. I wondered if Jake was as perplexed as I was. My guess was some sort of construction project.

Among the town’s historic Victorian buildings, residents of all ages crowded the main street, some with large balls in hand, some with tall poles, and many waving at us as we rode by. As we approached the action to investigate, a man named Tony welcomed us.

Tony explained that Irish road bowling is a game in which teams attempt to roll heavy cannon balls from one point in the road to another point farther away, then back to the original point. The team to make it back to the original point in the least number of rolls wins the game. As he talked, the townsfolk cheered and rooted for their teams. Tony displayed what we came to recognize as a common trait among the people here: a welcoming attitude that makes strangers feel like friends and family.

See all of Rider’s Tennessee touring stories here

When the game was over, we continued about a mile to Grey Gables Bed & Breakfast, where owner Linda Brooks Jones greeted us. Supper was ready, so we quickly washed the road off and headed down to the dining room.

Over a delicious meal of zucchini soup, homemade bread, salad, boneless pork chops with carrots and broccoli, and bananas foster, all washed down with iced almond tea, we enjoyed conversation with the other guests gathered around the table. While we had dessert, Linda joined us and told us more about the town, which was founded as a place for the second sons of the English gentry – those who would not inherit the bulk of their family’s fortune – to live in tranquility. I can see why this place was selected for a life of peace and leisure.

Day 3: Outposts and Outlaws

The next day would be the most historic of our trip, including places of somber importance as well as locations of vibrant culture. Our first stop was just down the road at the R.M. Brooks store.

After a delicious breakfast, we followed Linda to her family’s store. Now run by Linda’s daughter, R.M. Brooks was built in 1930 and is a prominent meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. Linda was happy to play tour guide, pointing out the attached house where her grandparents had lived and telling us more of the store’s rich history.

Tennessee 9 Lakes Region — The R.M. Brooks store has been a gathering place for residents and visitors alike for generations.

After promising Linda that we’d be back in time for supper, we continued south through Wartburg and on to Harriman. We learned that Harriman, known as “The Town that Temperance Built,” was founded in 1891 as an ideal industrial city built on foundational values of sobriety, exalted character, and learning. Although its founding core tenants sound somewhat restrictive, the town is lively and vibrant.

Looking for something cool to drink, we stopped in at The Sweet Spot and were greeted by a man named Blake, who pointed out historical photos on his shop’s walls as he answered our questions about the town. We bought a couple RC Colas and a small loaf of banana nut bread to enjoy as we strolled by the historic places Blake had recommended, like the grand Temperance Building and the historic Cornstalk Heights district.

When we finished our snack and walk, we saddled up again. Remembering our promise to Linda, we didn’t spend too long at the next three historic stops on our trip, which included the 18th-century Fort Southwest Point, the Wheat Community African Burial Ground, and the town of Oak Ridge, famous for its role in the Manhattan Project.

About 27 miles north of Oak Ridge, we found ourselves at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, a historic prison nestled among mountains covered in thick growth, making escape nearly impossible, which James Earl Ray, who assassinated Martin Luther King Jr., discovered in 1977.

Next up was the best road of the trip, State Route 116, one part of the popular Devil’s Triangle loop. We rode the curviest section, which rivals the Tail of the Dragon with challenging corners and exciting twists. It was also less populated than the Dragon tends to be, allowing us to enjoy it at our own pace.

See all of Rider’s South touring stories.

When the road came to an end at an intersection by a creek, our preplanned route told us to go left, which would take us along a gravel road. From what I could see, the road looked smooth enough, so we continued on, hoping it would turn back to pavement soon.

It did turn to pavement…in about 10 miles. By the end, we were covered in a layer of white dust and had lost time. After brushing off the dust as best as we could, we continued to our last historic stop of the day, the Scott County Jail in Huntsville, where we arrived a few minutes after closing.

We were disappointed to miss this tour, since we’d heard the owners of the jail are two women motorcyclists, and we’d hoped to chat with them. If a plan to return to the area had been only a vague thought at the start of the trip, it was now a certainty.

We kept our promise to Linda and made it back to Grey Gables in time for another delicious meal and friendly conversation around the dining table. At the end of the evening, Linda gave us a hug and a copy of her cookbook, The Table at Grey Gables. As a thunderstorm washed the dust off our bikes, we settled in for a good rest.

A Journey Home

The next morning, we had another fantastic breakfast before packing our saddlebags for a final time. We said our goodbyes and rolled out. As the mountains depressed into gentle rolling hills, I was surprised to find that I wasn’t disappointed to be headed home. Instead, I was excited to recall the many conversations and memories Jake and I would share about our first weekend-long motorcycle trip together, and I was happy that I’d be able to write this story to look back on many years from now.

See all of Rider’s touring stories here

9 Lakes of East Tennessee Motorcycle Ride Resources

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Chasing Dragons: Tazewell County, Virginia Motorcycle Ride

March 17, 2025 mcnews Leave a comment

Tazewell County Virginia Motorcycle Ride Chasing Dragons — Riders on Kudzu Curve on Back of the Dragon (SR-16). (Photos by the author)

While many Southern towns have struggled with the disappearance of anchor industries, some have bounced back on a rising tide of renewal and resurgence. One such town is Tazewell (pronounced TAZZ-well), located in the heart of southwestern Virginia’s slice of the Appalachian Mountains and my destination for this Virginia motorcycle ride.

Scan QR code above or click here to view the route on REVER

Founded in 1799, Tazewell was a thriving coal-mining town for nearly a century. When the coal industry declined, so did the town’s fortunes. But the downturn was short-lived. A shared love of twisty roads has been breathing new life into Tazewell, which has become a destination for motorcycle and car enthusiasts alike.

For those who love curves, the primary draw is Back of the Dragon, the 32-mile section of State Route 16 that claims 438 curves and 3,500 feet of elevation change as it winds south from Tazewell to Marion. I took a long solo ride from my home in Kentucky to ride the Back of the Dragon and to enjoy the third annual Old Town Revival, a weekend-long rally held in June.

After a loosely curvy ride via state highways on my Kawasaki Versys-X 300, I pulled up to my home away from home, the Farmhouse Suite (see sidebar below). This deluxe hotel suite is in the bottom level of the Haus of Taylor art gallery, which displays fine art and curated goods.

Famished after my long motorcycle ride, I took advantage of the suite’s central location and walked downtown. Several restaurants are nearby, including Bee Noodle’d, with bright, bee-themed decor and a friendly staff.

The restaurant is known for their local ingredients, particularly honey, so I ordered one of their specialties, the Bee Mac: homemade white-cheddar mac ’n cheese topped with crispy honey-teriyaki chicken. A perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy, it was comfort food at its finest, washed down with a refreshing Bailee’s Famous Lemon Bee honey-infused lavender lemonade.

After eating, I continued strolling down Main Street through Tazewell’s charming downtown to the Back of the Dragon Brewery. Festivities for the Old Town Revival rally, a motorcycle and car enthusiast gathering, were already underway. Cruise-ins, stunt shows, live music, derby races, Harley-Davidson giveaways, dyno testing, tattoo artists, vendors, and much more were available for anyone to enjoy.

The purpose of the OTR is to draw folks to Tazewell by giving them a venue to engage with and enjoy their favorite pastimes with fellow enthusiasts. The event’s slogan is “Ride ’Em or Drive ’Em,” and all brands and types of vehicles are welcome. Motorcycles lined the streets as live music played from a stage. Vendor booths dotted the strip leading up to the BOTD Brewery, where a huge dragon sculpture is ready for photos to prove you rode (or drove) the famous route.

Inside the brewery is a wide array of merchandise and memorabilia. I hadn’t ridden the Back of the Dragon yet, so I skipped the merch until I earned my bona fides. After enjoying the sights and sounds of the rally, I walked back to the Farmhouse Suite and lounged amongst the stylish and tasteful decor, enjoyed a decadent soak in the rainfall shower, and fell asleep in the king-size bed. This suite was going to spoil me!

Early the next morning, I rode my Versys to the start of the BOTD route. The REVER app said it should take 56 minutes to complete the 32-mile section of SR-16, which is an average of 34 mph even though the posted speed limit is 55 mph. That was my first clue I was in for a challenge.

The BOTD route works its way up and over three mountain ranges, and it is full of exhilarating, winding curves of all shapes, sizes, and types. Of the 438 curves, some have names like Kudzu Curve, Cliff Hanger, Zero Gravity Curve, First (and Second) Dragon Slalom, Lazy Dragon, and a series of them named after a dragon’s head, elbow, wing, and knee.

Some of the large, sweeping curves can be ridden at 55 mph, but be prepared to get on the brakes as many others are blind or tighten up and are signposted at 15 or 25 mph. After enjoying the back-and-forth slaloms, tight switchbacks, and fast sweepers, I arrived in Marion, where SR-16 ends at U.S. Route 11.

Taking the BOTD back north provides an entirely new ride. I found myself weaving through turns on one mountain, then riding straight through rolling farmland with beautiful views as I prepared for my ascent onto the next mountain.

The weather on my trip was perfect, and with SR-16 being nearly flawless in terms of pavement quality, I could focus on the turns without worrying about bumps and potholes.

After my first two passes on the BOTD route, I returned to BOTD Brewery for lunch. The OTR rally was in full swing. Motorcycles lined Main Street far off into the distance, and people were meandering around, checking out custom motorcycles and chatting with other bikers. Battling the dragon worked up an appetite, so I got into line to get a slice of wood-fired pizza. Others poured ice-cold beers from the self-service taps.

Walking around the brewery grounds, I checked out the Harley-Davidson motorcycles that were being offered for giveaways and competitions. Vendors sold T-shirts and leather items, and one would even repair your leather vest or jacket with an onsite sewing shop. Samples of energy drinks were handed out, and live music set a vibrant tone for the event.

Finishing my pizza, I went inside the brewery to purchase my hard-earned BOTD merch. The brewery started to clear out as rally participants went on to the fairgrounds to watch the stunt shows and derby car events. I opted to ride the BOTD route a few more times instead.

For my next few BOTD passes, I decided to stop at all the overlooks. The first was Kudzu Curve, a long sweeper surrounded by the climbing kudzu vine found throughout the South. A bit farther sits the Million Dollar View overlook, with a wide-open vista across the mountains and surrounding countryside.

My next stop was Hungry Mother State Park, where I checked out the beautiful lake scenery and wooden cabins. A highlight of this state park is the lake’s beach, so I walked over to the sandy promenade and admired the blue sky reflected on the placid surface. Without a swimsuit – and guessing that Kevlar-lined motorcycle gear wouldn’t be the best beach attire – I headed back, glancing back green-eyed at the cool water.

After another night of sleeping in luxury, I woke up with a long ride in my future. Bounding through the peaceful Virginia countryside lined with residences, antique barns, and farming equipment, I passed through Saltville before crossing over BOTD again. My route would follow a road that appeared on the map to be extremely twisty before ending in Burke’s Garden, a valley known for its views and Amish heritage.

My route to Burke’s Garden via State Route 623 included a single-lane gravel road. While I had ridden on gravel before, I’m not an experienced off-road rider. I pressed on, and it wasn’t until I got to that first 180-degree uphill hairpin that I realized this was the curvy section of road that I had seen on the map.

As I rode through hairpin after hairpin on gravel, dirt, and rock, I focused on my training. I breathed and loosened my death-grip on the handlebar. I turned my head to look through the sharp turns and positioned my body to ensure I didn’t turn wide and drop off the steep edge. When one hairpin turned downhill, causing me to gain too much speed for comfort, I remembered to gently press the back brake instead of the common tendency to forcibly grab the front. Then – suddenly – I was on pavement again! I let out an exclamation of joy.

See all of Rider’s South U.S. touring stories here.

A few miles later, I was in the “bowl” of Burke’s Garden, sitting on the stoop of the Amish General Store enjoying the mountains surrounding me. Resting and snacking, I was grateful for the gravel road experience and the beautiful views, even if it was nerve-wracking. I was also grateful that I would be heading back to Tazewell a different way!

Riding a fun, paved twisty out of Burke’s Garden, I arrived at BOTD Brewery and looked forward to the prospect of more pizza. This time, I ordered the specialty Kudzu Pie, a white pizza with caramelized onion, arugula, and a phenomenal balsamic drizzle. While enjoying the crust, with that chewy bite and rustic, smoky flavor of true wood-fired pizza, I learned the history from the director of BOTD Brewery, Beth Takach, and her father, the man behind it all, Larry Davidson.

Larry, a long-time motorcyclist and even longer resident of Tazewell, had always known how special SR-16 was. He believed it could be a destination for motorcycle lovers around the world. Armed with a dozen T-shirts, he approached other motorcyclists over a decade ago, gauging their interest in the area’s riding. When he sold out that day, he knew that others loved this special road just as much as he did and that this could be a true asset to the small town.

Larry helped get SR-16 designated as the official Back of the Dragon motorcycle route in 2010. He opened the BOTD Brewery, which greets riders at the end of their ride with hot pizza, a cold beverage, and memorable merchandise in a lively, motorcycle-friendly environment. Thousands of riders come from far and wide to Tazewell every year to ride the legendary Back of the Dragon. I am proud to say that I am one of them.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

SIDEBAR: Farmhouse Suite

Located at 113 Fincastle Turnpike in the Historic District of Tazewell, the Farmhouse Suite is a distinctive place to stay. The decor blends antique style with modern elements and luxury conveniences. Eco-conscious yet elegant, the suite offers a waterfall shower, sumptuous robes and towels, and delicious snacks and drinks in the pantry and mini fridge. This suite is a comfortable place to sleep and a relaxing place to recharge between rides. Find more info on Vrbo.

Tazewell, Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

Carly Becker lives to ride. If she’s not on her bike she can be found at her desk, writing about her motorcycle tours and moto camping trips. She lives in northern Kentucky with her husband, her dog, and her Kawasaki Versys-X 300.

The post Chasing Dragons: Tazewell County, Virginia Motorcycle Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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The Great Wide Open: Big Bend, Texas Motorcycle Ride

March 10, 2025 mcnews Leave a comment

You’ve probably heard the saying “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” At 268,596 square miles, it’s by far the largest state in the Lower 48, outsizing California by more than 100,000 square miles. The 14 smallest states would fit comfortably within the borders of Texas with enough room left over for half of Tennessee.

Scan QR codes above or click Day 1 or Day 2 to view routes on REVER

When my buddy Eric Birns and I rode from Ventura, California, to San Antonio to see the solar eclipse last April, we got there in the most efficient way possible: 1,400 miles on Interstate 10 in two days. Efficient, yes, but not much fun, so we vowed that our return trip would be more scenic.

Due west of San Antonio is Big Bend National Park, a place that has long held fascination for me because its remote location limits the number of visitors. It’s also known to have good motorcycling roads.

Big Bend is tucked into an area where the southerly course of the Rio Grande, which forms the park’s southern and eastern boundary as well as the border with Mexico, turns sharply to the north before cutting a wide arc to the east and then southeast on its way to the Gulf of Mexico.

From San Antonio, we rode west on U.S. Route 90, part of which runs close to the border through a parched, barren landscape. Following U.S. 90’s northward arc around Mexico, we gradually gained elevation until we reached Alpine, a small town that sits at 4,462 feet above sea level. As its name suggests, it often gets snow in the winter.

By the time we reached Alpine, Eric and I had traveled more than 2,300 miles over five days. We were traveling in style and comfort on Harley-Davidson’s latest touring bikes, Eric on a sharknosed Road Glide and me on a batwinged Street Glide. Both got modernized styling for 2024, and they’re equipped with a massive 12.3-inch TFT instrument panel paired with a state-of-the-art infotainment system (see sidebar). Our gear was packed into the Harleys’ saddlebags, chopped Tour-Paks, and Nelson-Rigg Traveler Tour/Lite Trunk Bags. We were the voices in each other’s heads thanks to a set of Cardo Packtalk Edge communicators.

As we rode through Alpine, we passed the campus of Sul Ross State University, named after former Texas governor Lawrence Sullivan Ross. A colorful “Greetings from Alpine, Texas” mural downtown informed us that actor Dan Blocker, best known for his role as Hoss on the TV show Bonanza, is a Sul Ross alum. The university also has a leading collegiate rodeo program that has earned nine national championships.

After staying in a somewhat depressing Motel 6 in San Antonio (due to the popularity of the eclipse, affordable lodging near the path of totality was hard to come by), we were spoiled by the Hotel Parker at Quarter Circle 7, located on the west side of Alpine. It has clean, modern rooms with cloud-like beds, tasteful Western decor, and complimentary breakfast.

During our weeklong road trip, Eric and I made it a tradition to end each day with a celebratory dinner. After getting cleaned up, we’d walk to a local restaurant, order a couple of frosty beers, and toast to our shared accomplishment and satisfaction of having explored new places and ridden unfamiliar roads. We’d send a selfie of us smiling and celebrating to our wives back home.

Next door to the Hotel Parker is the Spicewood Bar and Restaurant, which has a full bar and serves hearty West Texas fare in a lively atmosphere. We had the pleasure of dining with Eleazar Cano and Jayme Valles, two locals who run a motorcycle tour company called The Ride of Passage. They know the Big Bend area intimately, and they provided helpful routing suggestions. Jayme also runs a motorcycle repair shop called Alpine Motorsports, and he offered us roadside assistance should we need it.

Big Bend could very well be called the Big Empty, and that’s a good thing. Brewster County, which encompasses Big Bend National Park and towns such as Alpine, Marathon, and Study Butte/Terlingua, covers 6,193 square miles but has less than 9,400 residents. If you want to avoid crowds, this is your place.

Wide-open spaces are what make the Big Bend area so appealing and unique. The Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve spans over 15,000 square miles in Texas and Mexico and is the largest Dark Sky Certified place in the world. Of course, as motorcyclists, we’re drawn to the roads that cut through those wide-open spaces. It’s an 80-mile ride through high desert from Alpine to the entrance to Big Bend National Park, and there’s very little civilization along the way (hence Jayme’s offer to help if we needed it).

Before entering the park, we rode through Study Butte/Terlingua, a former mining town that’s now an eclectic mix of adventure outfitters (rafting, hiking, horseback riding, Jeep tours, etc.), unique lodging options, and a ghost town. There are bars, restaurants, and shops with a frontier vibe, as well as a world-famous chili cookoff every year.

We entered Big Bend National Park near Maverick Junction. There are several well-maintained paved roads that allow visitors to explore the park, but there are also extensive unpaved roads that provide access to backcountry campsites and other remote areas. We stuck to the tarmac and pointed our big Harleys east toward Chisos Basin.

In addition to its vastness, part of what makes Big Bend so special is its mix of landscapes – river, desert, and mountain environments comingle and create a canvas of rich colors and textures. Dominating the heart of the national park are the rugged Chisos Mountains, reaching a height of 7,825 feet at Emory Peak.

We rode into the mountains on Chisos Basin Road, a steep, winding two-lane road that goes through a rugged canyon and summits a small pass before plunging into a high-elevation basin that’s surrounded by brown volcanic cliffs and peaks on three sides. The road ends at the floor of the 5,400-foot basin, where there is a visitor center, lodge, campground, trailheads, and other amenities.

After buying a few souvenirs, we climbed out of the basin and returned to the main road. We turned east and soon passed Panther Junction, where the park headquarters and a gas station are located. For the next 20 miles, we cruised under an endless blue sky on a long, gradual descent toward the Rio Grande.

At Boquillas Canyon Overlook, we got our first view of the river. It flowed lazily and was surrounded by a corridor of vegetation that looked like a winding green carpet laid upon the arid desert landscape, with the rugged Sierra del Carmen escarpment forming a high brown wall on the Mexico side.

None of the paved national park roads create a loop, so we backtracked on the main road until we reached Santa Elena Junction and turned south on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. The road lives up to its name as it follows the western foothills of the Chisos Mountains with several fantastic overlooks, such as Sotol Vista and Mule Ears. Elevation drops as the road descends toward the Rio Grande and passes through Tuff Canyon. The pavement ends near an overlook where the river cuts through the high walls of Santa Elena Canyon.

See all of Rider‘s Texas touring stories here.

We had enjoyed every curve and vista in Big Bend National Park, but what eluded us – what I pictured in my mind’s eye when I imagined a park named after a famous river feature – was the experience of riding along with the river at our side. We found it next door.

Located west of Terlingua on Farm to Market 170, Big Bend Ranch State Park covers 311,000 acres (about one-third the size of the national park), and its southern boundary is the Rio Grande. Beyond Lajitas, FM 170 hugs the river closely, weaving and climbing and descending as it maneuvers around the rugged contours of the canyon. For pure riding enjoyment, the 50 roller-coaster miles from Lajitas to Presidio were a highlight of our entire 4,200-mile, nine-day trip.

After gassing up in the sprawling border town of Presidio, we hightailed it north on U.S. Route 67 to Marfa and then east on U.S. 90 to Alpine. Another celebratory dinner at Spicewood was our reward for covering nearly 400 miles in one long day. While that pace suited us just fine, I recommend spreading a visit to the Big Bend area over a couple of days or longer so you can see more and include some excursions off the bike.

The next day, we bid farewell to Alpine and rode north on State Route 118, which passes through the Chihuahuan Desert to Fort Davis, a small town that was once a frontier military post. The fort is a National Historic Landmark, and many of the old buildings have been restored.

See all of Rider‘s South touring stories.

We continued riding north into the Davis Mountains, with the bright white buildings of the McDonald Observatory visible from in the distance. Perched at 6,800 feet, the University of Texas observatory takes advantage of the region’s dark skies to peer into the far reaches of the universe.

After a pleasant ride through mountains, canyons, and high-desert vistas, SR-118 ended at Interstate 10, bringing our Big Bend journey to a close.

Getting to Big Bend isn’t easy. It requires commitment and, most likely, a long ride from somewhere distant. But it’s well worth the effort. It’s hard to believe such an enormous area can be hiding in plain sight, but things really are bigger in Texas.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

SIDEBAR: Harley-Davidson Road/Street Glides

The Road Glide and Street Glide are Harley-Davidson’s most popular baggers. They’re essentially the same motorcycle except for their fairings: The RG has a frame-mounted sharknose fairing and the SG has a handlebar-mounted batwing fairing.

Updates for 2024 included modernized styling, lower weights, and a larger engine (117ci, up from 107) that makes more power and torque. The Glides are also some of the most high-tech Harleys ever. On the performance side, they have ride modes (Road, Sport, Rain, and Custom) and the Rider Safety Enhancements electronics suite, which includes linked brakes, cornering ABS, Drag Torque Slip Control, and Vehicle Hold Control. In the cockpit, they have a vibrant 12.3-inch touchscreen TFT display, an infotainment system managed by H-D’s Skyline OS, and a 200-watt audio system.

For our 1,400-mile superslab slog from California to Texas, the Glides provided good wind protection and a comfortable ride, aided in part by 43% more rear suspension travel (3 inches, up from 2.1). On curvy roads, such as the Twisted Sisters in the Texas Hill Country and roads throughout the Big Bend area, the Glides handled with confidence, stability, and grace. Their center of gravity is low, allowing them to bend through even the tightest curves with relative ease – and these are heavy machines (811 lb for the SG, 838 lb for the RG).

Harley-Davidson’s big Glides are better than ever. They produce plenty of grunt, they’re comfortable for long miles (we rode them 4,200 miles in nine days), and they strike a good balance between modern sophistication and classic style. You can read our full review here.

Big Bend, Texas Motorcycle Ride Resources

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50 Best Motorcycle Roads in America

December 17, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

The December 2024 issue of Rider celebrated the magazine’s 50th anniversary. Over the past half century, we have published thousands of travels stories, favorite rides, tour tests, and features highlighting must-ride roads throughout the U.S. and on every continent except Antarctica. As part of the special anniversary issue, we selected 50 of the best motorcycle roads in America.

Out of 3.9 million miles of roads in this country, these are just a drop in the bucket, covering a mere 13,467 miles. There are thousands more great roads out there, so get going!

(The road are listed more or less alphabetically by state rather than in rank order.)

1. Dalton Highway (Alaska / 414 miles)

Paralleling the Trans‑Alaska Pipeline, this gravel supply road that goes from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay is a bucket‑list adventure route that crosses the Arctic Circle and the Continental Divide. (Photo by Jeff Davison)

2. Jasper Disaster Loop (Arkansas / 56 miles)

This route in the Ozark Mountains, which starts and ends in Jasper, Arkansas, and includes AR 7, AR 43, and AR 74, has hundreds of tight curves and crosses the Buffalo National River twice. (Photo by Bill Stermer)

3. Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas / 20 miles)

The Ozarks offer a smorgasbord of roads that wind through dense hardwood forests, over scenic ridges, and along burbling rivers. This stretch of AR 23 is one of the region’s best. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

4. Talimena National Scenic Byway (Arkansas, Oklahoma / 54 miles)

This winding road from Mena, Arkansas, (AR 88) to Talihina, Oklahoma, (OK 1) runs along the ridges of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in Ouachita National Forest. (Photo by David Bell)

5. Coronado Trail (Arizona / 123 miles)

U.S. 191 in eastern Arizona, which follows a trail used in 1540 by Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, includes an open‑pit copper mine, high‑alpine meadows and ridges, and hundreds of curves. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

6. Arizona Routes 89/89A (Arizona / 131 miles)

From the Colorado Plateau to the red rocks of Sedona, through the historic towns of Jerome and Prescott, and across valleys and over mountains, these sibling state routes offer a greatest‑hits tour of central Arizona. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

7. Pacific Coast Highway (California / 656 miles)

Rides up and down CA 1 have been a regular part of Rider’s history since our first issue. This legendary road follows California’s rugged coastline and offers world‑class scenery and epic riding. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

8. Serpent to the Sea (California / 140 miles)

From U.S. 101 near Fortuna, riding east on this stretch of CA 36 passes through Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park before turning into a fantastic roller coaster that seems like it will never end. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

9. Avenue of the Giants (California / 31 miles)

Paralleling U.S. 101, this meandering route (CA 254) passes through groves of old‑growth coast redwoods that tower hundreds of feet above the road and follows the wild and scenic Eel River. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

Related: Riding Among Giants

10. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado / 25 miles)

Mile for mile, this section of U.S. 550 between Ouray and Silverton, Colorado, is one of the most scenic anywhere. It passes through the rugged San Juan Mountains and summits several high passes. (Photo by Sara Liberte)

11. Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (Colorado / 28 miles)

Gaining more than 7,000 feet in 28 miles and achieving a final elevation of 14,130 feet, this is the highest paved road in North America, edging out Pikes Peak Highway by 15 feet. (Photo by Dan Schrock)

12. Georgia Triangle (Georgia / 35 miles)

This north Georgia loop connects GA 60, GA 180, and U.S. 129 and circumnavigates Blood Mountain. A highlight is the Two Wheels of Suches motorcycle resort. (Photo by Phil Buonpastore)

Related: Riding the Georgia Triangle

13. Salmon River Scenic Byway (Idaho / 160 miles)

Idaho is full of scenic byways. This one follows the Salmon River through the Sawtooth Mountains and crosses the Continental Divide at 7,014‑foot Lost Trail Pass. (Photo by Clement Salvadori)

14. Route 66 (Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California / 2,448 miles)

Dubbed the “Mother Road” by John Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath, U.S. Route 66 was once the shortest, fastest, and most scenic route from Chicago to Los Angeles. (Photo by Mark Tuttle)

Related: Get Your Kickstart on Route 66

15. Kentucky Coal Route (Kentucky / 218 miles)

This coal country loop follows Daniel Boone’s Wilderness Road, summits 4,145‑foot Black Mountain, and includes U.S. 421, made famous by the 1958 Robert Mitchum movie Thunder Road. (Photo by Lance Oliver)

16. Red River Gorge Scenic Byway (Kentucky / 46 miles)

Following the wild and scenic Red River, this byway passes through a National Geologic Area that features stone arches, caves, cliffs, ravines, waterfalls, and the Nada Tunnel. (Photo via Adobe Stock/erhlif)

17. Park Loop Road (Maine / 27 miles)

This scenic road around Acadia National Park on Maine’s Mount Desert Island features woodlands, rocky beaches, and glacier‑scoured granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain. (Photo by Scott A. Williams)

18. Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway (Maine / 52 miles)

Considered one of the most scenic routes in New England, this byway in the Appalachian Mountains of western Maine winds through woodlands and around lakes and ponds. (Photo by Alan Paulsen)

19. Copper Country Trail (Michigan / 47 miles)

This byway follows the Keweenaw Peninsula, which extends like a dorsal fin from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula into Lake Superior. Near Copper Harbor, Brockway Mountain Drive provides sweeping views. (Photo by Chuck Cochran)

20. Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route (Michigan / 20 miles)

This section of M‑119, which runs along the edge of Lake Michigan between Harbor Springs and Cross Village, is a narrow, curvy path through a tunnel of foliage. (Photo by Jamie Elvidge)

21. Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway (Minnesota / 88 miles)

This scenic byway (MN 16) in southern Minnesota begins at the Mississippi River and continues west through the Root River Valley, curving through rolling hills, dolomite bluffs, and historic towns. (Photo by Chuck Cochran)

22. Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana / 2,069 miles)

50 Best Motorcycle Roads in America 22. Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana / 2,069 miles) — 22. Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana / 2,069 miles)

This legendary road touches 10 states as it follows the mighty Mississippi River from its headwaters in Minnesota to its sprawling delta in Louisiana. (Photo via Adobe Stock/Ferrer Photography)

23. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee / 444 miles)

This national parkway from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, follows the “Old Natchez Trace” used by Native Americans, European settlers, traders, and soldiers. (Photo by Tim Kessel)

24. Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road (Montana / 50 miles)

Traversing Glacier National Park, this road cuts through the rugged Rocky Mountains and crosses the Continental Divide at 6,646‑foot Logan Pass. (Photo by Sherry Jones)

25. North Carolina Route 28 (North Carolina / 81 miles)

Starting at Deals Gap and ending at the Georgia state line, this wonderfully curvy road is known as Moonshiner 28 and includes part of the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. (Photo by Trevor Denis)

26. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina, Virginia / 469 miles)

This national parkway through the Appalachian highlands is the quintessential scenic ride and is known for its perfectly shaped curves, well‑maintained pavement, and countless scenic overlooks. (Photo by Steven Goode)

27. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire / 35 miles)

NH 112 is a spectacular road that twists its way through New Hampshire’s White Mountains. In the fall, it’s one of New England’s best leaf‑peeper routes. (Photo by Dan Bisbee)

28. Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire / 8 miles)

This short toll road to the top of 6,288‑foot Mount Washington is often fraught with bad weather. A recorded wind speed of 231 mph on the summit was a world record until 1996. (Photo by Clement Salvadori)

29. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico / 84 miles)

Circling 13,167‑foot Wheeler Peak, this scenic loop includes valleys, mesas, mountains, national forests, and some of New Mexico’s most culturally rich towns and villages. (Photo by Tim DeGiusti)

30. Great Continental Divide Route (New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana / 2,767 miles)

This mostly off‑road route crosses five states on its way from the U.S.-Mexico border to Banff, Canada. It’s a serious undertaking by any measure. (Photo by Don Mills)

Related: Riding Across the Great Divide

31. U.S. Route 50 in Nevada (Nevada / 409 miles)

Dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America” by Life magazine, the Nevada portion of the transcontinental Lincoln Highway traverses basin‑and‑range topography and follows the Pony Express route. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

32. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (New York / 70 miles)

This section of NY 97 hugs the eastern shore of the Delaware River and passes through protected park land. A highlight is the winding Hawk’s Nest portion carved into the cliffside. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

33. Triple Nickel (Ohio / 62 miles)

OH 555 often ranks high on lists of great motorcycle roads, and the 21 miles between Chesterhill and Ringgold are particularly fun and challenging. Part of Ohio’s Windy 9, it’s in a target‑rich environment. (Photo by Ken Frick)

Related: Riding Ohio’s Triple Nickel

34. Mount Hood Scenic Byway (Oregon / 105 miles)

Starting at the Columbia River, this route winds around its namesake peak, an 11,249‑foot active volcano, and goes through gorges, rainforests, and pastoral valleys. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

35. West Cascades Scenic Byway (Oregon / 220 miles)

Following the contours of the Cascades range, this route treats riders to old‑growth forests, snowcapped volcanic peaks, and the wild and scenic Clackamas River. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

36. PA Route 6 (Pennsylvania / 427 miles)

U.S. 6 across northern Pennsylvania, known locally as PA Route 6, takes riders through lush forests and charming small towns. Highlights include the PA Wilds region, the Kinzua Sky Walk, and the Susquehanna River. (Photo by Kenneth W. Dahse)

37. Iron Mountain Road (South Dakota / 17 miles)

This stretch of U.S. 16A, which connects Custer State Park with Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills of South Dakota, includes 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, and three wooden “pigtail” bridges. (Photo by Kevin Wing)

38. Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee, North Carolina / 11 miles)

This (in)famous section of U.S. 129, which borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park, claims 318 curves in just 11 miles. It’s a wild ride, but its popularity results in weekend crowds. (Photo by Ken Frick)

39. Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee, North Carolina / 43 miles)

Completed in 1996 at a cost of $100M, this road through the Cherokee and Nantahala national forests (hence the name) has perfectly radiused corners, smooth pavement, and stunning views. (Photo via Adobe Stock/Mark Nortona)

40. Texas FM 170 (Texas / 50 miles)

Farm to Market 170 from Lajitas to Presidio is a scenic roller coaster along the Rio Grande, which serves as the U.S.-Mexico border and the southern boundary of Big Bend Ranch State Park. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

41. Twisted Sisters (Texas / 132 miles)

Connecting Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337 is a scenic, sometimes challenging ride through Texas Hill Country. Popular with bikers, the route includes several motorcycle‑friendly bars and shops. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

42. Utah Scenic Byway 12 (Utah / 123 miles)

UT 12, aka A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, connects state parks, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef national parks, Grand Staircase‑Escalante National Monument, and Dixie National Forest. (Photo by Greg Drevenstedt)

43. Skyline Drive (Virginia / 105 miles)

This national parkway, which begins near the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, runs along mountain ridges for the entire length of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. (Photo by Scott A. Williams)

Related: Muriel’s First Ride

44. Back of the Dragon (Virginia / 32 miles)

VA 16 from Marion to Tazewell runs north‑south over three mountains that give the road a rolling humpbacked character, and its 32 miles have more than 400 curves. (Photo courtesy Back of the Dragon)

45. Vermont Route 100 (Virginia / 217 miles)

Stretching from Massachusetts to the Canadian border, VT 100 parallels the Green Mountains and passes through woodlands, pristine farmland, and charming villages. (Photo by Dan Bisbee)

46. North Cascades Scenic Highway (Washington / 140 miles)

Part of the larger Cascades Loop, WA 20 includes old‑growth forests, cascading waterfalls, alpine lakes, glaciers, and rugged mountain scenery. (Photo by Clement Salvadori)

47. Door County Coastal Byway (Wisconsin / 66 miles)

This scenic loop on the Door Peninsula includes views of Lake Michigan, Green Bay, the Niagara Escarpment bluffs, and quaint shore‑side towns and villages. (Photo by Barry Mellen)

Related: Destination Door County

48. Coal Heritage Trail (West Virginia / 97 miles)

This National Scenic Byway through West Virginia’s coal country includes twisty roads up and over ridges, easy valley riding, small towns, and the New River Gorge Bridge. (Photo by Steve Shaluta)

49. U.S. Route 33 in West Virginia (West Virginia / 248 miles)

One of the highest‑rated motorcycle roads in the Mountain State, U.S. 33 passes through George Washington and Monongahela national forests and the Shenandoah Valley. (Photo by Nathan Cuvelier)

50. Beartooth Highway (Wyoming, Montana / 69 miles)

U.S. 212 between Red Lodge, Montana, and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming summits 10,947‑foot Bearfoot Pass. Journalist Charles Kuralt called it the most scenic highway in America. (Photo by James Petersen)

The post 50 Best Motorcycle Roads in America appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride | Favorite Ride

October 28, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Cabin — This quiet, cozy, well-stocked cabin was our home away from home while visiting North Georgia. Lodging options are plentiful in the area. (Photos by the author.)

My family and I live in Jacksonville, Florida, where midsummer heat and humidity can press down on you like a weight. Looking for a respite, we headed for the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia, some of the southernmost mountains in the 2,000-mile Appalachian chain. Where there are mountains there are usually good motorcycling roads, and North Georgia has some real gems.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride

Scan the QR code above or click here to view the route on REVER

With my wife, kids, and parents piled in the family hauler and my motorcycle on the trailer, the six-hour drive had all the makings of National Lampoon’s Vacation. We avoided any hijinks, but we were relieved to arrive at our favorite cabin in Cleveland, Georgia.

With my family preoccupied with their own wanderings, I was eager to head out for a ride.

I’m an MSF instructor with more than 20 years of riding experience, but as a flatlander I had to recalibrate my brain to the tight curves, camber changes, rises, and dips that are common in North Georgia.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center — Discarded hiking boots adorn an oak tree at Walasi‑Yi Interpretive Center, a popular place to rest and restock on the Appalachian Trail at Neels Gap. The southern trailhead for the AT is 29 miles away on Springer Mountain.

From Cleveland, I rode north on U.S. Route 129 to U.S. Route 19/129, which forms the eastern side of a famous loop known as the Georgia Triangle that connects U.S. 19, State Route 60, and State Route 180. Heading north on U.S. 19/129, I stopped at the Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center, where the Appalachian Trail cuts through Neels Gap. The small stone building was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and both it and the AT were completed in 1937. Walasi-Yi supports AT hikers with a hostel, bathroom and shower facilities, a mail drop, a store, and shuttle services.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Brasstown Bald — Cloudy skies obscured the views from Brasstown Bald, but on a clear day you can see four states. Georgia’s tallest mountain is accessible via a steep, windy road off State Route 180.

After enjoying the sweeping, roller-coaster curves of U.S. 19/129, I turned east on SR-180 and headed toward Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak at 4,784 feet. From Jacks Gap, getting to Brasstown Bald requires riding up a narrow, winding one-way up, one-way down road with guard rails, low speed limits, and unrestricted views of the surrounding mountains. Once near the top, it costs $8 to park, and you can take a shuttle or hike the last 0.6 mile to the observation tower, where you can see four states on a clear day.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway — A nice view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from an overlook on Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (State Route 346), a fun road through the national forest near the Georgia Triangle.

Backtracking on SR-180, I turned south on State Route 346, also known as the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway, which meanders through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest for 23 miles. It ends at State Route 75A, and continuing east another few miles takes you to the charming but tourist-heavy town of Helen, which is modeled after a Swiss alpine village.

I was there to ride, so I rode south on SR-75A, reconnected with U.S. 129, and then turned left (south) on U.S. 19. At the roundabout at Stonepile Gap, I continued north on SR-60, another wonderfully winding mountain road that forms the western leg of the Georgia Triangle.

See all of Rider‘s U.S. South motorcycle rides here.

After passing the Two Wheels of Suches motorcycle resort on my left, I turned right (east) on SR-180 (Wolf Pen Gap Road), the northern leg of the Georgia Triangle, which is the tightest and most technical of the three.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Woody Gap — The Appalachian Trail crosses State Route 60 at Woody Gap, 3,160 feet above sea level.

After passing Lake Trahlyta and Vogel State Park on the right, I turned north again and took U.S. 19/129 all the way to Blairsville. Rather than contend with traffic on U.S. Route 76, I took a more leisurely route west on the Blue Ridge Highway and then Old U.S. 76. At Morganton, I reconnected with SR-60 and enjoyed more curves on my return to Suches.

After riding nearly 150 miles, I had earned a cold drink, a snack, and some relaxation time in one of the rocking chairs at Two Wheels of Suches. This well-known and well-maintained motorcycle resort and campground is a great place to meet fellow riders, see cool bikes, and have a meal, pitch a tent, or rent a room in the lodge.

The Georgia Triangle and other nearby roads scratched my itch for curvy roads and mountain scenery, and the temperatures were much cooler than back home. The cabin’s grill and a lazy hammock near the burbling creek were calling my name, so I saddled up again and rode back to Cleveland.

Once my family had gathered around the table set with sizzling burgers, everyone asked about my adventures, and I enjoyed sharing my story. As I said to my 7-year-old, the best part of a trip, no matter how near or far, is coming home.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Resources

Georgia Tourism
Blue Ridge Mountains
Brasstown Bald/Chattahoochee-Oconee NF
Two Wheels of Suches

Brian Carpenter lives in Jacksonville, Florida. He’s a life-long motorcyclist who rides year-round, and he participates in the motorcycling community on various levels and is passionate about learning, coaching, and being an advocate for the lifestyle.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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Bullitt County, Kentucky Motorcycle Ride: Rolling Through Nature and History

September 18, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

As a Kentucky native, I was long overdue for a visit to Bullitt County, home to two famous whiskey distilleries – Jim Beam and Four Roses – and beautiful rolling countryside. Less than two hours from my house, I explored curvy backroads and followed the famous Wine, Whiskey, and Ale Trail, enjoying the history and culture of these beloved beverages along this Bullitt County, Kentucky motorcycle ride.

Scan QR codes above or click Day 1 or Day 2 to view routes on REVER

Shepherdsville, located half an hour south of Louisville, is the trailhead of the WWAT, which also includes four wineries and a brewery. The trail allows you to sip, taste, and experience the history of the spirits of Kentucky, especially bourbon.

Bourbon whiskey has been distilled since the 1700s as a distinctive American product, and it is most associated with Kentucky, where it was first distilled. Legends abound about the early production of bourbon, and one can hear about that history and more on the WWAT tours.

Bullitt County recommends two days to fully experience everything the self-guided WWAT has to offer. If I had planned to partake in any of the samplers or tastings, I would have found a designated driver or used one of the available guided tour or transportation services, which are listed on the Shepherdsville travel website, where you can also download a digital passport.

Since my trip by motorcycle didn’t allow me to imbibe, I focused on the highlights and skipped the tastings. On my first day, I enjoyed a scenic ride east, mostly on U.S. Route 62, to the headquarters of Four Roses, one of the world’s most sought-after Kentucky bourbons. Having distilled fine bourbon since 1888, Four Roses has a romantic and fascinating history. With year-round tours, a tasting bar, an outdoor patio, and a gift shop, there is plenty for bourbon lovers to sample. I was particularly impressed by the property’s beautiful architecture and ambiance.

For my return to Shepherdsville, I rode north to Lawrenceburg and then west on State Route 44, the sort of road that makes Kentucky such a wonderful place to ride. SR-44 is a rural two-lane that curves its way through peaceful countryside, including farmland, forest, and residential areas. The homes in Bullitt County are beautiful and well-maintained, providing picturesque scenery.

On SR-44, I enjoyed a few blissful instances where the road wound its way over hills above the surrounding countryside. With a rock face on one side and a drop off on the other, the road swept through a few switchbacks that kept me on my toes. The state route continues all the way to Shepherdsville and a little farther west, ending at the Ohio River.

It was well into the evening when I arrived at my hotel, Spark by Hilton (see sidebar below). A sign nearby marked the entrance to Kart Kountry, said to be the country’s longest go-kart track, and it was open for another hour. I bought tickets for their fastest karts, and I was thrilled by the challenge and skill required to maneuver the kart around the well-maintained 1.5-mile track. With a wide grin on my face, I ran inside and bought more tickets. What a fun and exhilarating way to end my day.

On the next day of this Kentucky motorcycle ride, I rode to the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, where I noticed a large wooden figure across the lake. Intrigued, I entered the visitor center, and a kind woman explained how to get to the sculpture, which is one of three known as the Forest Giants. After enjoying a cold brew coffee and sweet pastry at the visitor center’s cafe, I set out to view the Giants.

A two-mile round-trip loop connects these larger-than-life wooden sculptures, and parking is available at each Forest Giant for accessibility. I opted to hike the loop to see all three, and while I came back tired and hot from trekking in boots and motorcycle pants, the trail is a flat and easy hike for people of all ages and abilities.

A nationally renowned recycling artist, Thomas Dambo, created the sculptures, which were inspired by the nature and landscape of the area. They are unique and impressive works of art that complement the other points of interest in the park. After seeing the Forest Giants, I cruised around the rest of the arboretum on Bernheim Forest Road, a lovely tree-lined loop, enjoying the cool, fresh air of the shaded forest.

Continuing on the WWAT, I rode to the nearby James B. Beam distillery, where America’s No. 1 bourbon has been produced since 1795. Not only is there a wealth of history, but there are also generations of experience perfecting the bourbon-making process – both of which you can learn about in the American Outpost building and the tours and tastings offered there.

See all of Rider‘s South U.S. touring stories here.

Famished, I found a seat at the large, well-lit bar in the on-site restaurant, The Kitchen Table. I ordered a starter with two cheese spreads and slices of a unique and tasty seasoned-and-fried bread. Above me was a sign proclaiming “Any damn way you please.” The bartender explained that one of the Beam distillers famously answers people with that statement when they ask about the proper way to drink Jim Beam. I love the freedom and self-expression that it implies. And I will certainly put this restaurant on my list of favorites for my next trip to Bullitt County.

My next stop on the WWAT was the Wight-Meyer Vineyards and Winery. I followed country roads and a well-maintained gravel lane to the owner-operated winery. Located on 16 acres, Wight-Meyer was the first commercial vineyard in Bullitt County and produces its wines from Kentucky grapes.

I was greeted by a friendly owner, Sandy Wight, and her even friendlier dog, Charlie. She suggested a tasting from their selection of 25-plus wines, many of which are award-winning, but I had to take a raincheck since I was on a motorcycle. She graciously showed me around the cozy tasting room, covered patio, and serene vineyard. It was a beautiful day, and the puffy white clouds across the blue sky framed the rows of tendrilled grape vines that stretched off into the distance. I enjoyed the peace and tranquility before setting out.

Everyone in Kentucky loves steakhouses, so for dinner I chose a new one for me – Cattleman’s Roadhouse in Shepherdsville. It’s a family-style restaurant boasting a plentiful salad bar that was substantial enough for a meal, especially when combined with the complimentary melt-in-your-mouth rolls slathered with cinnamon butter.

Before heading home, I visited the Awesome Flea Market in Shepherdsville. A short ride from the hotel, this enormous building contains indoor and outdoor sellers. When I stepped out back, I was greeted by an impressively large painted sign – the kind that makes you feel small – proclaiming The Most Awesome Flea Market in the World. Inside, I found a climate-controlled market with a food court and countless shops with varied, eclectic wares and friendly customer service.

This short, local Kentucky motorcycle ride was a satisfying scratch to the itch one experiences when two-wheeled travel is a passion. Even though I was relatively close to home, I still rode new routes, met new people, and saw new sights – the makings of a successful motorcycle trip, indeed.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

Bullitt County, Kentucky Motorcycle Ride Resources

SIDEBAR: Spark by Hilton Shepherdsville Louisville South

The Spark by Hilton is only a half mile off I-65 at exit 117. It’s a short ride from a variety of restaurants, and some are within walking distance. It’s also near Kart Kountry, the world’s longest go-kart track. The clean, recently renovated hotel includes a variety of amenities that are great for a motorcycle trip, such as free wi-fi, an in-room mini-fridge, free hot breakfast, and an indoor pool. For more information, visit the Spark by Hilton website.

Carly Becker lives to ride. If she’s not on her bike, she can be found at her desk, writing about her motorcycle tours and moto camping trips. She lives in northern Kentucky with her husband, her dog, and her Kawasaki Versys-X 300.

The post Bullitt County, Kentucky Motorcycle Ride: Rolling Through Nature and History appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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Appalachians Motorcycle Ride: Backroads Bonanza

August 19, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

Dan and I met nearly 20 years ago while playing on a recreational ice hockey team in our hometown of Ottawa, Ontario. When we weren’t talking about how bad our team was, we discussed our shared love of motorcycles. Our first motorcycle trip together was a long weekend exploring New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Appalachians Motorcycle Ride Backroads Bonanza REVER Map

Scan QR code above or click here to view the route on REVER

For our next trip, we spent a week riding in the Appalachians of western North Carolina. We enjoyed it so much that we returned the following year. Dan and I became regular riding partners, and we’ve done tours throughout the U.S. and Canada. Recently, we returned to the Appalachians to celebrate the 15th anniversary of our first ride there.

After a long day and a half riding south on Interstate 81 from Ottawa, we kicked off our backroads bonanza near Wytheville, Virginia, which is in the heart of a half-dozen excellent loop rides known collectively as Claw of the Dragon. We exited I-81 at Marion and rode north on State Route 16, a road known as Back of the Dragon that winds its way through the mountains to Tazewell, a nice Appalachian town that’s a perfect place to rest and recharge. It has a variety of restaurants, shops, and motorcycle-friendly lodging options, including The Traveler on Main, which offers vacation suites with full kitchens. The Back of the Dragon welcome center is a hub for riders, offering artisan pizza, self-pouring beer taps, local insights, and souvenirs.

SR-16 runs north-south over three mountains – Big Walker, Brushy, and Clinch – which gives the road its rolling humpbacked character, and its 32 miles have more than 400 curves. It weaves through lush, green forest and includes open valleys and scenic views. Changes in elevation are accompanied by changes in temperature that enhance the experience. It was easy to get into the rhythm of the ride and become one with our motorcycles, savoring each curve before moving to the next one.

We enjoyed Back of the Dragon so much that after visiting Tazewell, we turned around and rode it in reverse, doubling our fun. Just north of Marion is Hungry Mother State Park, which surrounds a lake of the same name. At the park’s Royal Oak Campground, we pitched our tents on a wooden platform extended over the side of a hill like a backyard deck, allowing us to relax while nestled among bucolic trees.

The next day we followed backroads south to Damascus and crossed into Johnson County, Tennessee, on State Route 133. We stopped at the Shady Valley Country Store, located at the crossroads of SR-133, SR-91, and U.S. Route 421. It’s a popular waypoint for motorcyclists, and we recreated a photo we’d taken 15 years ago: Dan riding a coin-operated horse made for kids.

After having a few laughs, we rode west on U.S. 421, another famous backroad known as The Snake, which slithers its way for 33 miles through Cherokee National Forest, goes over three mountains, and includes nearly 500 curves. Since Shady Valley is near the middle of The Snake, we rode to the western end in Holsten Valley and then turned around and rode to the eastern end in Mountain City.

As we continued heading south on backroads in western North Carolina, we experienced an unforgettable moment. I was leading as we rode on a straight stretch of road with a river just below us. Through our helmet communicators, Dan told me to look to my right. Flying over the river alongside us, at eye level and the same speed, was a bald eagle scanning the water below. It seemed like we were flying together. The vivid display of nature’s beauty ended all too quickly as the road and river veered in different directions.

After crossing state lines several times, we ended our day in Tennessee, ascending the winding State Route 143 to Roan Mountain State Park. We enjoyed a hearty dinner of sausage and potatoes cooked over the campfire and a quiet night under the stars.

The next morning, we continued our southern trajectory on SR-143 back into North Carolina, and then we rode State Route 261 to Bakersville. We took a convoluted, curvy route to Hot Springs, where we turned south on State Route 209, another serpentine backroad known as The Rattler that claims 290 curves in 24 miles.

After riding through the Pigeon River Gorge on Interstate 40, we crossed into Tennessee again and took another winding backroad (State Route 32) along the northern edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and then U.S. Route 321. We passed through Gatlinburg, where a boy named Sue once stopped at an old saloon to have himself a brew and met his long-lost father. We didn’t find an old saloon on the heavily trafficked, tourist-friendly streets, so we made our way to Elkmont Campground in the park and settled in for another quiet night.

Prior to meeting Dan, most of my motorcycle rides were of the solo variety. I was a “dawn to dusk” rider, all business, putting in the miles, with riding great roads my solitary goal. Riding with Dan has taught me to slow down and smell the roses. He enjoys talking to strangers, meeting people, and experiencing things other than riding. We’ve helped each other expand our horizons. I’ve shared the joys of riding long miles, and Dan encourages me to enjoy the parts of a trip that are off the bike.

See all of Rider‘s U.S. South motorcycle rides here.

Over the years, we’ve become great friends. Dan is like a brother to me. Our families have gotten close, and we know we can count on each other for the important things in life. Our friendship seems to be a rarity in today’s highly polarized world. We have different political views, but I don’t hold it against him that he’s usually wrong in every political discussion, nor does he hold it against me. We agree to disagree, yet we still respect each other.

Sunrise brought us another beautiful day, and we headed south into the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Newfound Gap Road (U.S. Route 441). The park gets upwards of 13 million visitors per year, so it’s hard to find a time when U.S. 441 doesn’t have a lot of traffic, but it’s still a beautiful ride. Our favorite part is The Loop, where the road curves around 360 degrees and crosses over itself.

At the Newfound Gap overlook on the Tennessee-North Carolina state line, we admired the views of the road, the lush forest, and the blue-tinged ridges of the Smokies. Rather than continue south to Cherokee, we turned around and headed north to Pigeon Forge, where we picked up U.S. 321 again and then Foothills Parkway, a relaxing ride with spectacular views that got us in the right frame of mind for what would come next.

At Chilhowee Lake, we turned east on U.S. Route 129, which runs along the edge of the lake for a few miles before climbing up to the Calderwood Dam overlook. This is the northern tip of Tail of the Dragon, the most famous backroad on our Appalachian greatest-hits tour. With 318 curves in 11 miles, it’s one of the tightest, twistiest sections of road in a region full of tight, twisty roads.

Dan was especially excited, exclaiming “I think I touched a peg!” in our helmet communicators. He rides a tall Yamaha Super Ténéré adventure bike, and it was a first for him. The beauty of Tail of the Dragon is the endless supply of curves, many of them nicely banked, and the lack of cross traffic. The downside is that motorcycle and car traffic can be heavy, especially on the weekends.

After crossing back into North Carolina near Deals Gap, we headed east on State Route 28, aka Moonshiner 28, and stopped to visit the impressive Fontana Dam. We followed SR-28 for its entire 81-mile length, which includes the Waterfall Byway (Bridal Veil Falls is a must-stop spot) and Indian Lake Scenic Byway, to the Georgia state line, where SR-28 continues south. Northern Georgia roads are fantastic, with wide curves, perfect pavement, and little traffic, which made it easy to get into a good flow.

We made our way west to Two Wheels of Suches, a motorcycle-only lodge and campground located on the Georgia Triangle, an excellent loop that connects U.S. Route 19, State Route 60, and Wolf Pen Gap Road (State Route 180). At the campground, we met a young man on a ’70s-era Harley hardtail chopper that he built himself. Hearing about his cross-country trips on that bike with its 2-gallon gas tank and leather-covered steel seat made Dan and I embarrassed for complaining that our heated grips don’t get quite hot enough.

Having hit our southernmost point, it was time to start heading north. We followed backroads through Georgia and South Carolina before returning to North Carolina, eventually picking up the Blue Ridge Parkway for a relaxing cruise to Maggie Valley, where a hotel room and a barbecue meal awaited us.

The next day, we visited Wheels Through Time. Unlike most museums that are static and filled with signs that read “Do Not Touch,” WTT lets you get close to over 300 motorcycles on display. Staff members circulate and tell stories about various bikes, and they often start bikes to let visitors hear how they run.

During our visit, Matt Walksler, who now runs the museum after his father, Dale Walksler, passed away in 2021, invited a small group of us to join him for a behind-the-scenes tour of the shop where bikes are restored. Seeing the vintage engines, gas tanks, wheels, and parts along with several motorcycles in various states of restoration was incredible.

The next day, we left Maggie Valley and headed for Rider’s Roost, a motorcycle resort and campground in Ferguson, North Carolina. When we arrived, we discovered a lively scene and a band playing on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. We set up our tents and went to join the party. It was different from the quiet campgrounds we were used to, but the “everybody is a friend” atmosphere made for a great evening of country rock music, darts, and beers.

It was a long, two-day interstate slog back to Ottawa, which gave us plenty of time to reflect on our fantastic week exploring the best backroads in the Appalachians. The memories will last forever, another chapter in the book of experiences that Dan and I have written together. Hockey brought us together, but long motorcycle journeys have been the secret to our long-lasting friendship.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

Appalachians Motorcycle Ride Resources

Virginia Tourism
Wytheville, VA
Tazewell County, VA
Back of the Dragon
Hungry Mother State Park
Tennessee Tourism
Johnson County, TN
Roan Mountain State Park
North Carolina Tourism
Heart of Appalachia
North Carolina Smokies
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Georgia Tourism
Two Wheels of Suches (Suches, GA)
Blue Ridge Parkway
Wheels Through Time (Maggie Valley, NC)
Rider’s Roost Motorcycle Resort & Campground (Ferguson, NC)

Trevor Denis has been addicted to motorcycling since he learned to ride and twisted the forks on a Honda XL80 with an accidental jump when he was 11. His thoughts and garage are mostly full of motorcycles. He lives in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, with his understanding wife, two great kids, a cat, and a lazy dog.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Alleghany Highlands: Virginia Motorcycle Ride

August 19, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

After a 400-mile ride from Louisville, Kentucky, to Clifton Forge, Virginia, relaxing on the wraparound porch at Ridgely Bed, Breakfast, and Historic Gardens was just what Dad and I needed. Perched above the town and built in 1902, Ridgely served as our homebase for two days of riding through the hollows, over the ridges, and under the canopies of trees in the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia’s Mountain Region during this Virginia motorcycle ride.

When we got hungry, Dad and I walked down the hill and into town for a well-earned meal at Jack Mason’s Tavern and Brewery, where I had a delicious New York strip and a Log Hopper Tavern Kolsch. Afterwards we settled into our comfortable rooms to get some rest for the next day’s riding and exploring.

Day 1: Lake Moomaw-Humpback Bridge Loop

With our kickstands up early the next morning, we rode one of the scenic routes recommended by the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, which has a visitor center in nearby Covington (the routes are also available on the Chamber’s website). We began with the Lake Moomaw-Humpback Bridge loop.

Just west of Covington, we checked out the Humpback Bridge, the last covered humpback bridge in the U.S. Built in 1857 from wood cut by broad axe, it’s 110 feet long and four feet higher in the center than on the ends. It’s hard to imagine that the tranquil Dunlap Creek flowing below could ever threaten to wash away the bridge, but that possibility was the reason for the hump in the middle. Once a part of the Midland Trail (U.S. Route 60), the bridge stopped carrying vehicular traffic in 1929. The National Historic Landmark is now the centerpiece of a delightful five-acre park.

Scan QR codes above or click Day 1 or Day 2 to view routes on REVER

Next, we turned north on Indian Draft Road (State Route 600), a pleasantly remote stretch of road that eventually loses its yellow centerlines. Following natural hollows created by Cove Run and Indiandraft Creek, the road weaves its way through dense foliage shrouding both sides of the road. It was about this time that I realized the Google Map of the route I pulled up using a QR code at the visitor center was no longer tracking because I was out of cell range. Being able to digitally disconnect is one of the great things about riding in remote areas, but I recommend downloading maps to your phone for offline use (the REVER app allows you to do this; see map above) or bringing a paper map as a backup.

From Indian Draft Road, we wound our way to East Morris Hill Road (SR-666) and then Coles Mountain Road (SR-605) to Gathright Dam. Named after the man whose land was overtaken by the reservoir, the dam was authorized in 1946 but not completed until 1976. Needed to protect life and commerce along the flood-prone James and Jackson rivers, it created 2,530-acre Lake Moomaw, which is stocked with trout and bass and ringed with campgrounds.

The Lake Moomaw visitor center provided a nice spot to stretch our legs and check the route to Falling Spring Falls, another truly unique wonder. To get to the falls, we backtracked on Coles Mountain Road to Natural Well Road (SR-638). Just before turning right onto Jackson River Road (SR-637), we saw a sign for the Jackson River Scenic Trail, a 16-mile rails-to-trails multiuse pathway. We turned left onto Falls Road followed by a left on Hot Springs Road (U.S. 220).

The waters of Falling Spring Creek tumble down 80 feet to the rocks below in a postcard-perfect location, with the cascade framed in green foliage and a view of the Allegheny Mountains to the left. On the side of the road, there is a pull-off for parking and an overlook with a picnic area, but there is no trail to the falls, so they must be enjoyed from a distance.

With our morning ride complete, we headed back to Clifton Forge to check out the C&O Railway Heritage Center, a must-visit attraction for those who love trains and railroads. The museum occupies what was once a freight depot built in the late 1800s, and the exhibits illustrate the intertwined history of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway and the town of Clifton Forge. C&O was once the world’s largest hauler of bituminous coal, but it was also known for luxurious passenger service. The museum’s collection includes old C&O uniforms, fine china and silverware, model trains, and displays about the railway’s evolution. It was fascinating to see a photo of fully loaded railway cars parked on a bridge during a flood to keep the bridge from washing away, as well as instructions given to an engineer for the arrival of Franklin Roosevelt’s funeral train on April 15, 1945. Outside are massive coal-fired steam engines, cabooses, and dining cars that are open to visitors.

Next, we walked to the nearby Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center and saw an exhibit of art created by a former railroad worker. Dad and I dined next door at Michael’s New York Style Pizza, where the aroma of baked dough, ’80s music, and wood-paneled booths and tables took me back to the pizzerias of my childhood. All that was missing was a Ms. Pac-Man tabletop arcade game.

See all of Rider‘s South U.S. touring stories here.

After our late lunch, we mounted up again to try and make it to North Mountain Overlook for a sunset view of the valley and Allegheny Mountains. Paralleling I-64 East, we took Longdale Furnace Road (SR-269) to Collierstown Road (SR-770), another narrow, paintless road. However, about a half mile on the ascent, the road switched to gravel. With sunset coming in the next hour, we decided to bail on the endeavor. Dad was on his Triumph Tiger, but I was on my Triumph Sprint GT sport-tourer. Had we started earlier in the day or been on true adventure bikes, we would have gone on. But with dusk upon us, we called it a day.

Day 2: Historic Masonic Theatre-Falling Spring Falls Loop

If you only have one day for riding in the Alleghany Highlands, the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism’s Historic Masonic Theatre-Falling Spring Falls scenic loop is the ride for you. Starting at the Masonic Theatre in downtown Clifton Forge, the route north out of town on Rose and Sioux streets becomes Sulfur Spring Road (SR-606). The climb up and over the ridge was especially twisty at the top, where 1st and 2nd gears were needed for the tighter switchbacks. While we only had intermittent glances over our shoulder of the valley below, the view was stunning. It was a nice clear, dry spring day, making this part of the ride a motorcyclist’s chef’s kiss.

After the climb, Sulfur Spring Road flattens a little and even gains a median line after passing Airport Drive. At the intersection with Hot Springs Road (U.S. 220), we turned left and headed south towards Covington, passing Falling Spring Falls again on our right.

In Covington, we turned right on East Riverside Street and hopped on the Midland Trail (U.S. 60). Where U.S. 60 merges with I-64, we took Dunlap Creek Road (SR-159). Again, I recommend saving maps to your phone for offline use as well as writing down the general waypoints and route numbers since cell coverage is spotty along the route. Who needs cell service anyway when you can enjoy light traffic, bucolic scenery, the fragrance of fresh-cut grass, and the hum of the bike? We cruised along at no more than 45 mph for the next 25 miles, crossing Dunlap Creek over and over.

At Crows, SR-159 merges with the Kanawha Trail (SR-311) and passes briefly through West Virginia. In Sweet Springs, West Virginia, we stopped for a map check and to read three roadside markers. One informed us our present location was once part of Virginia; another told us that John Floyd, governor of Virginia from 1831-1834, was buried nearby; and the last told us that the Rowan Memorial Home, which was once a resort, includes a building from 1833 designed by Thomas Jefferson.

Back in Virginia and just before Paint Bank, we made a hard left onto Potts Creek Road (SR-18) and started heading north again. Our return to Clifton Forge, which included Blue Spring Run Road and Rich Patch Road (both designated SR-616), was a delightful ride along creeks and was full of curves, dips and rises, and a mix of open countryside and dense forest.

Back at the Ridgely, Dad and I enjoyed another relaxing sit on the sweeping porch and discussed highlights of the last two days. We had a fantastic time in the Alleghany Highlands, and we’ll be back. In the fall, I’m sure sitting on the porch and watching colorful leaves fall from the 100-year-old oak tree would lift nature’s veil to reveal even more of the valley below.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

Alleghany Highlands Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

Virginia Tourism
Alleghany Highlands
Lake Moomaw
C&O Railway Heritage Center
Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center
Ridgely Bed, Breakfast, and Historic Gardens
Jack Mason’s Tavern and Brewery
Michael’s New York Style Pizza

Nathan Cuvelier’s first motorcycle ride was after a primer on his dad’s Honda Shadow Spirit in a parking lot. The next day the two embarked on a ride through the White Mountains of Arizona. He’s been hooked ever since and relishes escaping northern Virginia traffic on two wheels whenever he can.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads in West Virginia

August 13, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia — Plan your perfect West Virginia motorcycle trip with our list of the Top 5 Motorcycle Roads in West Virginia.

Visitors to Rider’s Touring page regularly search for rides in West Virginia, and it’s easy to see why. Known as the Mountain State and nestled in the heart of the Appalachians, West Virginia offers superb riding, great scenery, and rich history. Our list of the Top 5 motorcycle roads in West Virginia includes must-ride routes in the state, with details, photos, and links to tour stories to help you make the most of your trip. Ride over mountains and into valleys, along babbling creeks and through dense forests, and take in everything West Virginia has to offer.

See all of Rider‘s West Virginia touring stories here

1. U.S. Route 33

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia US Route 33 Seneca Rocks — Seneca Rocks is one of the highlights of a ride on U.S. Route 33 in West Virginia. Photo by Nathan Cuvelier.

U.S. Route 33 is one of the highest-rated motorcycle roads in West Virginia. Start from Elkins and continue east 80 miles toward the Virginia border, passing through Monongahela National Forest along the way. This route includes lots of steep elevation changes and peg-scraping twists. This road also passes by Seneca Rocks, a must-see rock formation that rises 900 feet above the North Fork River. Hop off the bike here to stretch your legs and admire the area’s natural beauty along hiking trails.

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia US Route 33 — The Germany Valley scenic overlook on U.S. Route 33 provides a nice view of the area. Photo by Scott A. Williams.

Continuing on U.S. 33 into Virginia takes you through the George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah Valley toward Harrisburg, with more thrilling riding along the way.

Favorite Ride: Seneca Rocks, West Virginia

Riding West Virginia’s Country Roads

2. Midland Trail

The Midland Trail is a National Scenic Byway that crosses the state from Kentucky in the west to Virginia in the east, covering 117 miles. The state’s capital of Charleston is a great starting location for this ride, with plenty to do in the city before hitting the road. Just south of Charleston is Kanawha State Park, a nice place for camping for those who prefer sleeping under the stars.

Heading east from Charleston, the road follows the Kanawha River with a particularly thrilling section of twisties around Chimney Corner. Just past this section is Hawks Nest State Park. From here, the road continues with a few more twisty sections to Rainelle, home of the Old Stone House historical marker, and on toward Lewisburg, where riders can fuel up, grab a bite to eat, and refresh.

Lessons Learned on a Wandering West Virginia Motorcycle Ride

3. U.S. Route 250

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia US Route 250 Monongahela National Forest — U.S. Route 250 travels through the Monongahela National Forest. Photo by Nathan Cuvelier.

This road begins in Elkins, West Virginia, and continues southeast to the Virginia border after passing through the Monongahela National Forest. From Elkins to the border, the road traverses 50 miles. Much of this road follows large creeks and flowing streams, offering good variety with technical sections through the mountains and easy riding in valleys.

Through the Monongahela National Forest, several scenic pull-offs allow riders to stretch their legs and enjoy the scenery. From U.S. 250, a short trip south on State Route 92 will take riders to Green Bank, home of the world’s largest steerable telescope.

Asphalt Heaven: Riding West Virginia Backroads

4. Coal Heritage Trail

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia Coal Trail Scenic Byway US Route 19 New River Gorge Bridge — From the northern end of the Coal Heritage Trail, take a quick jaunt east on U.S. Route 19 to ride over the New River Gorge Bridge. Photo by Steve Shaluta.

The Coal Heritage Trail is a National Scenic Byway that starts in the town of Bluefield in southeastern West Virginia and continues north to Fayetteville. As the name implies, this route takes riders through coal towns and sites of industrial enterprises in the region – perfect for riders with a passion for history. Starting in Bluefield, U.S. Route 52 to Welch follows railroad tracks along Elkhorn Creek through the valley. As the road continues north of Welch as State Route 16, it varies from twisty sections up and over ridges, easy valley riding, and quaint small towns.

Along this road are historical stops like the World War Memorial Building to African American Veterans, the Coal Heritage Mural, the Helen Coal Miners Memorial, and more. From Fayetteville, riders can continue east on U.S. Route 19 over the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and a not-to-be-missed feature of any West Virginia trip.

Along the Midland Trail: A West Virginia Motorcycle Trip

5. West Virginia Route 20

Top 5 Motorcycle Roads West Virginia Route 20 — Part of West Virginia Route 20 follows the New River with beautiful views along the way. Photo by Scott A. Williams.

WV Route 20 is the longest state route in West Virginia at 256 miles. On the southern end, it starts in Bluewell and heads north, passing through small towns and following rivers, streams, and creeks. The route is mostly through heavily wooded areas, proving shade during hotter months.

The section of SR-20 from Buckhannon to Webster Springs is an ideal 55-mile route for motorcyclists, with plenty of curvy sections of road. It passes through Holly River State Park, which is surrounded by densely wooded mountains and offers campsites and cabins. Traffic is light in this section of SR-20, but the small towns the route passes through will have lower speed limits. The part of road closest to Webster Springs in the south is the most thrilling. SR-20 is an excellent choice for riders wanting to enjoy West Virginia’s small-town charm coupled with less crowded pavement and natural beauty.

Border Hopping the Virginias: Virginia and West Virginia Motorcycle Ride

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Motorcycle News, News

Border Hopping the Virginias: Virginia and West Virginia Motorcycle Ride

July 15, 2024 mcnews Leave a comment

Border Hopping Virginia West Virginia Motorcycle Ride — Crossing Anthony Creek near Blue Bend, West Virginia, as we make our way toward the Virginia border on this Virginia-West Virginia Motorcycle Ride. (Photos by the author)

Riding challenging curves through beautiful mountain scenery spikes my happy gauge, and the border region of eastern West Virginia and western Virginia is ripe with options. Great roads curve along rivers, wind through national forests, and roll through small towns, with interesting sights along the way.

The historic small city of Lewisburg, West Virginia, offers good restaurants and lodgings, providing a convenient base of operations. I connected there with my long-time riding partner Steve Efthyvoulou for two day-ride loops that took us over (and over) the border between the Virginias.

Day 1: Into the Alleghany Highlands

After breakfast, we pointed our bikes north on U.S. Route 219 to Anthony Road, where a right turn put us on an entertaining and frequently narrow road that parallels Anthony Creek. Recent deer strikes on this road involving riders we know had us on heightened alert for creatures aptly named Odocoileus virginianus. We continued deer-free through the village of Anthony and past Blue Bend. A right onto State Route 92 (Pocahontas Trail) took us south through Alvon and to the outskirts of White Sulphur Springs.

Scan QR codes above or click Day 1 or Day 2 to view routes on REVER

A one-exit run on Interstate 64 east delivered us to State Route 311 (Kanawha Trail). We crossed into Virginia and entered George Washington National Forest. A few miles on, we encountered a curious double tunnel under a railroad. The original passageway was built of stone; the metal culvert must have come later.

SR-311 hugs Tygers Creek southeast toward Crows, where we went right to follow Dunlap Creek. We crossed back into West Virginia, and south of Sweet Springs, SR-311 continues left as Peters Mountain Road, curving in spectacular fashion to a ridge. There it returns to Virginia and cuts through a patchwork of green including wilderness and recreation areas, campgrounds, and trails for hikers and off-roaders.

On the outskirts of Paint Bank, where SR-311 crosses Potts Creek, the Lemon Hotel proudly flaunts its vivid yellow exterior. This historic mountain home, dating from 1909 and now operating as a bed-and-breakfast, continues the yellow theme to the garage, chicken coop, deck chairs, guest bicycles, and likely other accoutrements. Green trim mimics the leaves of a lemon tree. I’d wager the yellow lodgings are fabulous, but I was more interested in following yellow lines painted on smooth, black asphalt.

Paint Bank Road continues switching back and forth down Potts Mountain, with several scenic views signposted. At New Castle, we turned left onto State Route 615 (Craig Creek Road). The road meanders less than its namesake waterway, but it’s still engaging. To our right, we noticed suspension-style bridges across the creek that look like scaled-down Golden Gate Bridges. Where Craig Creek makes its final sweep right to join the James River, we turned left onto State Route 621 (Roaring Run Road), which slices along Karnes Creek.

See all of Rider‘s U.S. South motorcycle rides here.

At Low Moor, we turned left onto U.S. Route 220, cut north through Covington, and continued on Hot Springs Road, gaining elevation through curves into the Alleghany Highlands. Beyond the junction with State Route 684, we stopped at Falling Spring Falls.

In his 1781 book, Notes on the State of Virginia, native son and future U.S. President Thomas Jefferson wrote, “The only remarkable cascade in this country is that of the Falling Spring in Augusta. It falls over a rock about 200 feet to the valley below.” These days the drop is just 80 feet because mining operations from 1927 to 1941 rerouted the stream to the current falls. It’s still beautiful, but I wonder how the original 200-foot cascade looked.

Continuing on U.S. 220, we encountered arcs and hairpins climbing to a ridge, then curved down to the center of Clifton Forge, which offers multiple choices for lunch. Steve selected 42 Deli, where we ordered BLT subs overflowing with bacon. (There’s no such thing as too much bacon.)

After lunch, we continued north on Douthat Road to State Route 39 then turned left for more curves to the West Virginia border. Down in Marlinton, we turned left onto U.S. 219 through Buckeye and Hillsboro. In Pocahontas, we visited Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, site of an 1863 Civil War battle that ended organized Southern resistance in the still-new state of West Virginia. A walk up the observation tower rewarded us with a panoramic view of the Greenbrier River Valley. Continuing south on U.S. 219, a combination of sweepers and twisties returned us to Lewisburg to complete the day’s loop.

Day 2: West Virginia High

The next morning, our second loop started east from Lewisburg on U.S. Route 60 then turned south at Cadwell onto State Route 63 (Monroe Draft). At Organ Cave, this road joins U.S. 219 (Seneca Trail), and at Pickaway we turned right onto State Route 3 toward Sinks Grove and Wolf Creek. At Alderson, SR-3 crosses the Greenbrier River and bends gently west and south for a relaxed run along this scenic river.

At Bellepoint, the Greenbrier and New Rivers converge, and just past Hinton we encountered a fantastic section of State Route 20. With tight turns and elevation changes, it moves along Gwinn Ridge with practically perfect pavement. At Sandstone we parked at the general store and walked around back for a close-up look at the New River. It’s among the oldest rivers on Earth, flowing northward through West Virginia valleys and canyons. On a perfect June morning, it couldn’t be prettier.

Reversing course, we enjoyed SR-20’s curves in the opposite direction. At Hinton, SR-3 presents a curvy stretch of two-lane to Shady Spring. There, U.S. Route 19 south got us down to Odd Road, which given its continual curves, is anything but odd for West Virginia. In the village of Odd, we turned right. Then at Coal City Road, we turned left for more twisties. At Amigo we picked up State Route 16 and wound through Stephenson and Corinne to Mullens.

Riding north out of Mullens on State Route 54 led us to a succession of twisty backroads including State Routes 97 and 3, Mattsville Road, Lower Sandick Road, and Clear Creek Crossing Road. In the village of Clear Creek Crossing, the riding got even better when we turned right onto Clear Fork Road. The tight curves border on perilous, but wow, it was fun!

Clear Fork Road ends (sigh) at Maple Fork Road, then we went left on State Route 16, right on 61, and left on 41. Farther on, we reached a highlight of the day, Babcock State Park, featuring Glade Creek Grist Mill and a series of streaming waterfalls.

Returning to SR-41, we continued to U.S. 60 and got exactly what we’ve come to expect from a great West Virginia road: smooth tar with elevation changes and thrilling curves. What a way to finish this ride. At the intersection of U.S. 219, we were back in Lewisburg.

Morning presented a 664-mile highway jaunt to get home. That’s a long way in a day but a small price to enjoy border hopping the Virginias.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

Virginia-West Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

Scott “Bones” Williams engages readers on motorcycle touring, gear, and culture. His writing conveys his love of speed and motion, preference for roads less taken, and role as goodwill ambassador.

The post Border Hopping the Virginias: Virginia and West Virginia Motorcycle Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Day 1: To the Gap

Day 2: Carving a Trail

Day 3: Outposts and Outlaws

A Journey Home

9 Lakes of East Tennessee Motorcycle Ride Resources

SIDEBAR: Farmhouse Suite

Tazewell, Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

SIDEBAR: Harley-Davidson Road/Street Glides

Big Bend, Texas Motorcycle Ride Resources

1. Dalton Highway (Alaska / 414 miles)

2. Jasper Disaster Loop (Arkansas / 56 miles)

3. Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas / 20 miles)

4. Talimena National Scenic Byway (Arkansas, Oklahoma / 54 miles)

5. Coronado Trail (Arizona / 123 miles)

6. Arizona Routes 89/89A (Arizona / 131 miles)

7. Pacific Coast Highway (California / 656 miles)

8. Serpent to the Sea (California / 140 miles)

9. Avenue of the Giants (California / 31 miles)

10. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado / 25 miles)

11. Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (Colorado / 28 miles)

12. Georgia Triangle (Georgia / 35 miles)

13. Salmon River Scenic Byway (Idaho / 160 miles)

14. Route 66 (Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California / 2,448 miles)

15. Kentucky Coal Route (Kentucky / 218 miles)

16. Red River Gorge Scenic Byway (Kentucky / 46 miles)

17. Park Loop Road (Maine / 27 miles)

18. Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway (Maine / 52 miles)

19. Copper Country Trail (Michigan / 47 miles)

20. Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route (Michigan / 20 miles)

21. Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway (Minnesota / 88 miles)

22. Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana / 2,069 miles)

23. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee / 444 miles)

24. Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road (Montana / 50 miles)

25. North Carolina Route 28 (North Carolina / 81 miles)

26. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina, Virginia / 469 miles)

27. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire / 35 miles)

28. Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire / 8 miles)

29. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico / 84 miles)

30. Great Continental Divide Route (New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana / 2,767 miles)

31. U.S. Route 50 in Nevada (Nevada / 409 miles)

32. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (New York / 70 miles)

33. Triple Nickel (Ohio / 62 miles)

34. Mount Hood Scenic Byway (Oregon / 105 miles)

35. West Cascades Scenic Byway (Oregon / 220 miles)

36. PA Route 6 (Pennsylvania / 427 miles)

37. Iron Mountain Road (South Dakota / 17 miles)

38. Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee, North Carolina / 11 miles)

39. Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee, North Carolina / 43 miles)

40. Texas FM 170 (Texas / 50 miles)

41. Twisted Sisters (Texas / 132 miles)

42. Utah Scenic Byway 12 (Utah / 123 miles)

43. Skyline Drive (Virginia / 105 miles)

44. Back of the Dragon (Virginia / 32 miles)

45. Vermont Route 100 (Virginia / 217 miles)

46. North Cascades Scenic Highway (Washington / 140 miles)

47. Door County Coastal Byway (Wisconsin / 66 miles)

48. Coal Heritage Trail (West Virginia / 97 miles)

49. U.S. Route 33 in West Virginia (West Virginia / 248 miles)

50. Beartooth Highway (Wyoming, Montana / 69 miles)

North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Resources

Bullitt County, Kentucky Motorcycle Ride Resources

SIDEBAR: Spark by Hilton Shepherdsville Louisville South

Appalachians Motorcycle Ride Resources

Day 1: Lake Moomaw-Humpback Bridge Loop

Day 2: Historic Masonic Theatre-Falling Spring Falls Loop

Alleghany Highlands Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

1. U.S. Route 33

2. Midland Trail

3. U.S. Route 250

4. Coal Heritage Trail

5. West Virginia Route 20

Day 1: Into the Alleghany Highlands

Day 2: West Virginia High

Virginia-West Virginia Motorcycle Ride Resources

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