Motorcycle Rides Near Me in Virginia

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Have you ever asked the question:  Where are the best motorcycle rides near me in Virginia (VA)? 


Whether you are simply looking for some new motorcycle rides & roads in Virginia you have never been on or if you are really focused on trying to find the very best motorcycle rides in Virginia, finding out all your motorcycle road choices and options can be more challenging than you realize.  Even for motorcycle riders with many years of riding experience driving motorcycles in The Old Dominion can find an incredible motorcycle ride that they had driven near or past for years without ever thinking to give it a try.  Or, these same riders may just happen to talk to another motorcycle rider and learn about some nearby great motorcycle roads in an area that they’ve never thought to check out.  So, MotorcycleRoads.com (McR) has put together this short little guide aimed at helping you better answer the question - What are my best options for motorcycle rides near me in Virginia?”  

*Rankings for Virginia motorcycle rides were accurate at the time this guide was published/updated in Feb of 2020 (for more information, see Note 1 at the bottom of this article).  Additionally, McR uses a proprietary algorithm to calculate motorcycle ride popularity (for more information, see see Note 2 also at at the bottom of this article). 
 

Closest US Motorcycle Riding Hotspot to Virginia

First, I need to tell you about some motorcycle riding HOTSPOTS across the United States.  After 20+ years of collecting data on approximately 2000 US motorcycle roads & rides, motorcycle rider reviews and ratings of those motorcycle roads, along with countless photos and videos, it has become clear that some regions of the United States have become motorcycle riding hotspots.  As you'll learn, these motorcycle riding hotspots are found in different parts of the country; in areas that are well known to offer amazing scenery and in some areas that don't have such a strong reputation.  There are a variety of reasons that motorcycle riders gravitate to certain parts of the country and every rider has their own preferences, so an area that may not be anything special to one rider, may be an absolute paradise for another rider.  For whatever the reasons are, each of these hotspots act like “magnets for motorcycling” and are depicted in the map image below.

US motorcycle riding hotspots


Nearest Motorcycle Riding Hotspot for Virginia Motorcycle Riders: The Blue Ridge Box

blue ridge box motorcycle riding hotspot

As hotspots go, this one really stands out for having some of the highest quality and most popular motorcycle roads in the entire USA.  The Blue Ridge Box is an approximate 50x50 mile “box” located at the southern end of the Blue Ridge mountains and including portions of SE Tennessee, SW North Carolina, NE Georgia, and NW South Carolina.  This concentrated collection of spectacular motorcycle rides is home to a motorcycle ride that has been named a top motorcycle ride in the USA as long as the site has been running: The Tail of the Dragon (AKA Deal’s Gap).  The Tail of the Dragon draws enough attention and motorcycle riders from around the world that it alone could arguably represent a motorcycle riding hotspot in and of itself; yet the Blue Ridge Box contains many, many more top motorcycle roads including the following:

 

Iconic US Motorcycle Rides

Now if you are interested in not just in motorcycle riding hotspots in the USA but instead the hottest/most-popular individual motorcycle rides across the entire country, then you need to be introduced to some motorcycle rides that have reached iconic status. Fortunately for Virginia motorcycle riders, a few of these incredible motorcycle rides are just a few states away.  These are the kinds of motorcycle rides that all true motorcycling riding enthusiasts should add to his/her motorcycle riding bucket list.  The short list of these iconic motorcycle rides in the USA are as follows:

 
  tail of the dragon photo

The Dragon – As mentioned above in the Blue Ridge Box discussion, this route starts at the North Carolina and Tennessee border, heads north into Tennessee, and goes by many different names such as: The Dragon, the Tail of the Dragon, Deal’s Gap, and/or the Dragon’s Tail.  Call it what you want, but this is probably the most famous motorcycle road in the entire world … yes, world.  It is known for its collection of incredible curves compressed into a short stretch of 11-miles ... 318 curves in those mere 11-miles.   

 

 
  blue ridge parkway photo

The Blue Ridge Parkway – like The Tail of the Dragon discussed above, the next iconic motorcycle ride is also world famous yet this is anything but a short ride as it covers a whopping 469-miles!  This route is covers large portions of both Virginia and North Carolina and has been enchanting both motorcycle riders and car drivers for decades.

 

 
  three sisters motorcycle ride texas

Three Sisters – the next iconic motorcycle ride takes us down way down south & “deep in the heart of Texas” with a motorcycle ride that also goes by a few different names (Ranch Roads 335, 336,337a, or “The Twisted Sisters,” or simply “The Three Sisters”) and is positioned in an area known as Texas Hill country just northwest of San Antonio, Texas.  The ride has a cult following of riders and like the other iconic rides, draws motorcycle riders in from not just the USA but all parts of the world. 

 

 
  pch motorcycle ride

Hwy 1 - Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) – Beyond a doubt, the most iconic motorcycle ride in the west is the Pacific Coast Highway and is also one of the most famous scenic drive in all of the world.  This quintessential road trip up (or down) the California coast became popular when it was glamorized by a variety of movies and TV shows and has only grown in popularity over time.  It offers gentle curves and breathtaking scenery as well as world class amenities along the coast and in the cities/towns that grace its path.  

 

 
  tunnel of trees motorcycle ride michigan

If you’re looking for a iconic motorcycle ride in the Midwest, The Tunnel of Trees Road is like the PCH of the Midwest and like PCH (described above), this route is also a “shore hugger.”  It offers riders great lake shore scenery off to the west with a canopy of green foliage from above.  The ride is a favorite among Midwestern motorcycle riders and is particularly captivating in the fall when the autumn colors mesmerize riders as the ride beneath a canopy of golds, oranges, and scarlet reds.  

 

 
  beartooth motorcycle ride montana wyoming

The last iconic American motorcycle ride on our list is the most extreme in many aspects as it is located in a sparsely populated area in northern Wyoming and crossing over into an equally sparsely populated area of Southern Montana and is referred to as Beartooth Pass .  The route is extreme for the fact that for the sheer mountain cliffs and switchbacks as well as the fact that it can throw snow & ice into the mix as late as July.  It not only offers riders unrivaled mountain scenery but also has the added bonus of putting riders within a short drive to the quintessential US National Park - Yellowstone.   

 

 
     

 

 

Motorcycle Riding in the state of Virginia  

So far we have told you about Virginia's nearest motorcycle riding hotspot, the Blue Ridge Box, as well as some iconic US motorcycle roads that are spread out around the USA.  But if you simply want to know what the best motorcycle rides near you in Virginia are, then read on as I describe 5 of the very best motorcycle rides in Virginia below. Currently there are 64 Virginia motorcycle roads registered on McR which puts the state nicely above the national average of registered motorcycle roads per state (note: the average state at the time of this publication had about 45 registered motorcycle roads on MotorcycleRoads.com).  And, Virginia also has a handful of these routes found within the coveted Top 100 Motorcycle Rides in the USA which riders should consult over time as the list is updated constantly with new routes and motorcycle rides that are gaining and/or falling in popularity.  

Below we highlight 5 of the best motorcycle rides in Virginia but for the complete listing check out all registered Virginia motorcycle rides.

best-virginia-motorcycle-rides

The Top-5 Best Motorcycle Rides in Virginia: 

 

  1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The ride begins at Afton, VA and runs south till it intersects with I-77 and goes through the Virginia country side. Here you can make stops at an old mill pond with a working millwheel and Civil War battle sites. The roads finally take you towards Cherokee, NC, mostly in the Great Smoky Mountains. This region has some astounding overlooks and some major attractions like the blowing rock and an old craft house. As you get to Ashton, the views get better till you get to the end point at Cherokee Indian Reservation with a museum and an outdoor drama. It has gentle curves and limited access, which means you can go slowly and revel in the views!

 

  1. Skyline Drive

Beginning in Front Royal, the Skyline Drive heads south to Shenandoah National Park and ends in Waynesboro, VA. You can take the route back from here or head to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The views of the Shenandoah National Park includes majestic mountains, deer and if you’re in luck, black bear. The 105-mile mountain roads are super twisty with a 35 mph speed limit. It can get damp in the mornings. There are several spots to stop for a stretch, camping sites and hiking trails.

 

  1. US 250

This Virginia motorcycle road takes you up two mountains with panoramic vistas of the valley below. Farm lands, lush forests and rocky creek beds are just some things you can see down below. Ride early in the morning to have the road all to yourself, advises the author. The road has some challenging switch backs, tight turns, drastic elevation changes and more. There are few spots for a break. Some sections are a rough ride. The way to George Washington National Park and the Monongahela National Park offers eateries, picnic areas, hiking, scenic overlooks and more.

 

  1. Virginia's State Route 16

This is a Virginia motorcycle ride that offers mountains, countryside, two state parks, awesome scenery and thrilling twisties. The Hungry Mother State Park and the Grayson Highlands State Park are both worth riding through. The road also has some chain restaurants, local mom n pop places and some nice towns with amenities. The pavement is smooth and well-maintained.

 

  1. The Secret Blue-Ridge Mountain Northern Stretch

This is a non-so-well-known route in the Blue Ridge Mountains that goes through lush green forests, some fields, picturesque lone homes and quaint stone fences. It also covers some great valley views and makes for a nice summer and fall ride. The road is in perfect condition with no potholes or gravel. The road isn’t jam-packed with traffic, although it isn’t very empty either. There isn’t much to do except for enjoying the remote ride in nature’s lap.


In addition to the great/popular Virginia motorcycle rides listed above, Virginia is the proud state where 4 of the first 5 presidents were born and holds the record of 8 total, the most in any state. And with that presidential history distinction also comes a whole host of other historical based attractions that history buffs will revel in.  Additionally, the site has some wonderful scenic destinations that draw in visitors from all over the country and world.  Overall, planning a great Virginia motorcycle ride would be easy if you were to combine any of the great nearby Virginia motorcycle roads along with these popular attractions described below

  • Colonial Williamsburg is a rare spot that recreates the setting of the American Revolution period. 18th century buildings have either firmly stood still or have been restored to their original shape. Tourists get to walk the path taken by Thomas Jefferson and the spot where Patrick Henry gave his speech, as well as eat where George Washington did. Costumed interpreters show the lives of gentry, farmers and slaves from then.
     
  • Virginia Beach features a wide expanse of golden sand with hotels, amusements and long boardwalks along. Nearby are the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum, Ocean Breeze Water Park, Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, New Lighthouse and Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum. More than 9,000 acres of coastline is protected as a part of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which offers hiking and picnic facilities.
     
  • Arlington National Cemetery is spread across 600 acres and is where most famous personalities of the country are buried. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, carved out of white marble, contains the remains of soldiers from both the World Wars, Korean Conflict and Vietnam War, and is one of the most visited spots. The grave of President John F. Kennedy is marked by an eternal flame. Built in the 1800s as a tribute to George Washington, Arlington House is known for being the residence of Robert E. Lee. The mast of the Battleship Maine is a memorial to the casualties of the ship that sunk in Havana Harbor. Nearby is tomb of Pierre L’Enfant, the designer of the city of Washington D.C.
     
  • Colonial National Historic Park encompasses the site of the Revolution’s end – Jamestown and Yorktown. The foundations of the 1639 church tower and a few buildings at the outline remain in its original condition. A museum, exhibition galleries focused on England’s colonization, history and culture of the Powhatans and Jamestown’s first 100 years are the highlights. It also has some spectacular re-creations of historic structures.
     
  • Luray Caverns have the most breathtaking calcite formations within an extensive underground system that exude an extra-terrestrial feel. Limestone crystals here have been formed over centuries to create the impressive landscape. Titania’s Veil, the giant double column, interior lakes and one-of-its-kind Great Stalacpipe Organ are the highlights here. Nearby are the Luray Valley Museum that explores the history of the region’s 19th century rural life, and the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum that features an 1897 Mercedes Benz.
     
  • Shenandoah National Park is at the center of Virginia and houses part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Skyline Drive along the length of the park overlooks some great views and President Hoover’s summer residence, Old Cave Cemetery and Dark Hollow Falls. Hiking trails take you through flowering trees and shrubs with different gorgeous shades through spring, summer and autumn.
     
  • Manassas National Battlefield Park was where two key Civil War battles were fought in Virginia – Battle of Bull Run and the engagement on the plains of Manassas. It is a historically significant site that is also a haven for over 160 species of resident and migratory birds.

 

Interested in more motorcycle ride articles like this?

       
  Midwest's Best Motorcycle Rides

 

The Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in the Midwest  
  northeast-motorcycle-ride

 

The Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in the Northeast  
  South's Best Motorcycle Rides

 

The Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in the South  
  West's Best Motorcycle Rides

 

The Top 10 Motorcycle Rides in the West  

 

Note 1:  All facts and figures were gathered during early Jan 2019 and will change over time as new motorcycle roads are added to the collection. 
Note 2:  How were these popularity ratings calculated? 
A motorcycle road’s popularity can be based on a wide variety of factors.  Our analysis considered some obvious indicators of motorcycle road popularity such each roads’ “Rider Rating” scores (star ratings) and which motorcycle road description pages were visited the most.  But, the analysis dug deeper and looked at some less obvious yet valuable indicators of a motorcycle road’s popularity such as how often a given motorcycle road was added to riders’ “To Ride” lists, how often a given motorcycle road was added to riders’ “Rode it” lists and enthusiasm indicators such how often photos and/or videos were uploaded for a given road and which roads are attracting the most buzz among motorcycle roads indicated by those roads that are receiving the most number of new/recent comments.  For the sake of being consistent and as objective as possible we use a popularity algorithm that “crunches those number” and allows us to develop a ranking of the popularity of each of the motorcycle roads used as a basis for this guide.

 


Conclusion

As always, I hope to provide you with insightful & valuable motorcycle riding community information to help you get the most out of all of your motorcycling experiences.

I'm always looking for ways to make MotorcycleRoads.com better and more helpful so if you have any suggestions to improve the website, just contact me through the Feedback button you'll find near the top of every page.  And as always, if you have a favorite motorcycle road of yours that is not yet registered on MotorcycleRoads.com, please get that favorite of yours "on the map" by registering it at MotorcycleRoads.com.  Registering a motorcycle road (or event, or club, or place) is quick and easy and you'll be helping out our motorcycle riding community!!! 

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