Nothing but you, your bike and the open road. Experience the thrill of riding in the hills of southern West Virginia. Scenic highways and byways, breathtaking views and rugged terrain provide the backdrop as you enjoy the twists and turns and roller-coaster-like features of our country roads.
Here, every road leads to adventure, and there’s a history lesson around every curve. Winding hills and sweeping curves beckon motorcycle enthusiasts to southern West Virginia every year. Here’s some of our most traveled routes!
Head of the Dragon
91 miles of curvaceous country roads in McDowell County make up the Head of the Dragon, a scenic loop that completes the Body of the Dragon motorcycle run series. This day-long journey features dramatic mountain vistas and quaint small towns. Plan your trip during the Head of the Dragon Motorcycle Run & Autumn Festival on September 15 in Welch, WV.
Coal Heritage North
This 129 mile loop begins and ends in Beckley, WV. Past and present is well represented on this scenic ride that offers up scenic views, waterfalls, coal history and quaint small towns. Your journey will take you across the New River Gorge Bridge, past the New River Gorge Harley Davidson and down Gauley Mountain. Along Route 60 you will see Cathedral Falls, Kanawha Falls and the confluence of the New and Gauley Rivers.
Coal Heritage South
This 131 mile loop begins and ends in Beckley, WV. A good part of this ride follows the Coal Heritage Trail and takes you deep into coal country through what were once thriving coal camps. The remnants of life in the coalfields is evident along this trail. The coal baron’s homes in Bramwell, Twin Falls State Park, Pinnacle Rock, Camp Creek, Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park are just a few of the highlights of this trek.
Farm Country
Ride begins and ends in Princeton WV – 111 total miles. Some of the most beautiful farm country in all of West Virginia. This journey is reminiscent of a simpler place and time. Beauty and Civil War history collide in both Lewisburg and the historic town of Union. While traveling through Monroe County keep your eyes peeled for beautiful barn quilts throughout the area.
National Forest
This is our longest suggested ride. Totaling 195 miles, it begins and ends in Fayetteville, WV. This ride takes you through two of West Virginia’s Coolest Small Town’s, Fayetteville and Lewisburg. Plan to stop for a meal in one or both towns! Other interesting stops include Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Droop Mountain, Beartown State Park, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, Babcock State Park and the New River Gorge Bridge.
National River
Beginning and ending in Beckley, WV, this ride is 123 miles long. Travel along the ancient river valleys of the New, Gauley and Meadow Rivers. See the historic Prince Depot and the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park, two of the best photo opportunities along the way.
Get a Motorcycle Guide
Ready to plan your trip? Get a copy of our Southern West Virginia Motorcycle Guide for official routes and directions, suggested stops and even more rides!
