Pouring out of the southern Appalachian Mountains, water comes together with other water. Streams and rivers beckon to a lone motorcyclist to follow them as they spread out across the Tennessee Valley. Soon the rivers become tranquil blue expanses against the green hills, and massive gray mountains of concrete and steel lure you to throw the kickstand down and marvel at the … [Read more...] about Nine lakes and a lost sea: ‘Built for the people’ also includes motorcyclists
Rider Tours
What’s new is old in the New River Gorge
The New River Gorge is bass-ackwards. Carved by one of the world’s oldest rivers (number two in the world next to the Nile, local folks claim), it hosts the nation’s newest national park. Yet it’s called the “New” River! The New is an East Coast river that flows north. But what’s most askew is the nature of the park itself. Consider that most of the national parks, … [Read more...] about What’s new is old in the New River Gorge
To Helen and Back: A novice rider explores the North Georgia mountains
I knew the perfect road to introduce my new riding companion to a motorcycle tour across the Georgia mountains. The name even suited her perfectly — Warwoman Road. Zoe Kelly, a 39-year-old single mother and new rider, gave me a quizzical look when I suggested this road to begin a three-day Georgia road trip to Clayton, Helen, Hiawassee and the area’s collection of mountain … [Read more...] about To Helen and Back: A novice rider explores the North Georgia mountains
Tazewell, Virginia: More than just the Back of the Dragon
Sooner or later, another motorcyclist will ask you if you’ve ridding “the other Dragon — the Back of the Dragon.” Exiting Interstate 81 in Marion, Virginia, The Back of the Dragon begins its 32-mile, 428-curve journey north to the motorcycle-friendly town of Tazewell. Officially known as Virginia Route 16, this popular motorcycling destination features all the challenges and … [Read more...] about Tazewell, Virginia: More than just the Back of the Dragon
The Green River Staircase: Tackling Switchbacks works up an appetite for Seafood
The new Harley-Davidson Pan America was already sitting outside Asheville Motorcycle Rentals when we arrived. Owner Phil Cann wanted to put some break-in miles on the new adventure bike before it enters the rental fleet, which was the perfect excuse for a day trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains. I gathered a motley collection of cruisers, customs, café and adventure riders … [Read more...] about The Green River Staircase: Tackling Switchbacks works up an appetite for Seafood
