The Mast Farm in Valle Crucis, North Carolina, is a stunningly pretty venue to plan a trip around. Located in the Appalachian Mountains near Banner Elk and Boone, it is surrounded by terrific country roads and beautiful scenery that helps to define a very special part of the Old North State. Going back in time, this area was like a magnet attracting immigrants from places like … [Read more...] about From Castle to Farm: Exploring Our Touring Routes
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Third Gear Therapy Around Wise, Virginia
The morning looked warmer from the hotel window. It always does. I stepped out onto the sidewalk in Wise, felt that sharp little edge in the mountain air, and stopped long enough to zip my jacket up another inch. The sky had that early-spring brightness that promises a decent day while refusing to promise a warm one. Across the street, Wise was just beginning to stir. … [Read more...] about Third Gear Therapy Around Wise, Virginia
A Tennessee Two-Wheel Escape: Riding Tellico Plains to the Cherohala Skyway
Arguably, the Cherohala Skyway is the best 43 miles of pavement in the southeastern United States. It exists because it is beautiful. On day three of the tour and I am currently trailing my riding partner, Elio Dimacali, who is pushing the pace to a level that is right at the edge of my comfort envelope. I’m piloting my 2022 BMW R1250GS Adventure. Dimacali serves as the lead … [Read more...] about A Tennessee Two-Wheel Escape: Riding Tellico Plains to the Cherohala Skyway
Vintage Adventures in the Athens 100
Why do you ride motorcycles? There’s no wrong answer, in fact most are probably right. My answer for why I ride? It’s fun. There’s also something inherently innocent and childlike about it. The fact that a bike provides you with a promise of freedom and exploration, an escape from reality, or a way to truly experience it. My bikes now offer the chance to ride anywhere, whether … [Read more...] about Vintage Adventures in the Athens 100
Exploring Elkin: From Mill Town to Motorcycling Mecca
Nestled on the banks of the serene Yadkin River, the town of Elkin resembles many small North Carolina towns: a main street lined with older buildings, a movie theater, a bank, various shops. One of the joys of motorcycling is discovering these time-capsule towns. It’s even more joyous to see them thriving in the 21st century. “About eight years ago, we were stagnant. The mill … [Read more...] about Exploring Elkin: From Mill Town to Motorcycling Mecca
