As the setting sun casts shades of pink and orange across the colorful fall foliage of the Smoky Mountains, white tents dot an open field at the Townsend Visitors Center as the annual Grains & Grits Festival ramps up for an evening of Southern spirits and gourmet grub. Every autumn, the festival returns to the small mountain town of Townsend, Tennessee, where … [Read more...] about Grains & Grits Festival Offers a taste of Tennessee rides and whiskey
Rider Tours
A shakedown run to Wayah Road and Tapoco Lodge
Wayah Road near Nantahala Lake is a favorite route for many motorcyclists. By Michael E. Gouge Old things call to me. Ramshackle barns, well-worn leather jackets, bypassed highways – each draw my attention and induce romantic notions of a past either real or imagined. Such an affliction can cause men to do irrational things, like buying a 34-year old Honda CB750SC that … [Read more...] about A shakedown run to Wayah Road and Tapoco Lodge
The cultural maelstrom of McDowell County, West Virginia
Prepare to have your sensibilities slashed, pummeled, and eviscerated by the reality of contemporary McDowell County, West Virginia. Your Appalachian Mountains have quaint villages, picturesque farms, forests, country inns, wineries, orchards, and breweries. Your upscale towns and cities have bistros, brewpubs, delicatessens, vegan cafes, and chocolatiers. You’ll leave all … [Read more...] about The cultural maelstrom of McDowell County, West Virginia
Stunning vistas, quaint towns highlight north Georgia
Almost by instinct, I looked for a shady corner of the parking lot to escape the sun climbing higher over the mountains of north Georgia. I arrived in Hiawassee a bit earlier than I planned, largely due to my excitement to ride with a high school friend I hadn’t seen in decades and my penchant for carving up the roads tumbling down from the Blue Ridge Escarpment to the Peach … [Read more...] about Stunning vistas, quaint towns highlight north Georgia
Swimming spots : Cooling off during summer rides
By Sarah Merrell Summer often means sweltering, afternoon temperatures. If you find yourself dripping in sweat and cursing the heat during a ride, a nice cool, respite does exist — swimming holes. These gems range from crisp mountain lakes to chilled pools of water at the bases of waterfalls to fresh bubbling rivers. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer ride and cool off … [Read more...] about Swimming spots : Cooling off during summer rides
