West Virginia, known as the Mountain State, is a top destination for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes, winding roads, and rich history. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, the state boasts some of the best motorcycle routes in the country. Here are the top five must-ride roads in West Virginia, each providing unique experiences for riders, from challenging twists to scenic views.
1. U.S.
Route 33 U.S. Route 33 is a favorite among motorcyclists, known for its steep elevation changes and thrilling twists.
Starting in Elkins and heading 80 miles east toward the Virginia border, this route passes through the picturesque Monongahela National Forest. A highlight of this ride is Seneca Rocks, a stunning rock formation rising 900 feet above the North Fork River. Riders can take a break to explore the area’s hiking trails and enjoy the natural beauty.
Continuing into Virginia, the road winds through the George Washington National Forest and the Shenandoah Valley, offering even more exhilarating riding opportunities. 2. Midland Trail (U.
S. Route 60) The Midland Trail, a National Scenic Byway, stretches 117 miles from Kentucky to Virginia, crossing West Virginia from west to east. Starting in Charleston, the state capital, riders can explore the city before embarking on this scenic journey.
The trail follows the Kanawha River and features exciting twists, especially around Chimney Corner. The route passes through Hawks Nest State Park, offering breathtaking views, and continues to Rainelle, where riders can stop at historical sites like the Old Stone House. The ride concludes in Lewisburg, a charming town perfect for refueling and relaxing.
3. U.S.
Route 250 Beginning in Elkins, U.S. Route 250 travels southeast for 50 miles, crossing into Virginia after winding through the Monongahela National Forest.
This route offers a mix of technical mountain sections and leisurely valley rides, with plenty of scenic pull-offs along the way. Riders can take a short detour on State Route 92 to visit Green Bank, home to the world’s largest steerable telescope, adding a unique stop to their journey. 4.
Coal Heritage Trail The Coal Heritage Trail is a National Scenic Byway that takes riders on a historical journey through West Virginia’s coal towns. Starting in Bluefield, the route follows U.S.
Route 52 along Elkhorn Creek and continues on State Route 16 through ridges and valleys. This ride is perfect for history buffs, with stops at sites like the World War Memorial Building and the Coal Heritage Mural. The trail concludes in Fayetteville, where riders can take a detour on U.
S. Route 19 to cross the New River Gorge Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel and the longest steel single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. 5.
West Virginia Route 20 WV Route 20 is the longest state route in West Virginia, spanning 256 miles from Bluewell to the north. This route offers a serene ride through heavily wooded areas, following rivers, streams, and creeks. The 55-mile stretch from Buckhannon to Webster Springs is particularly popular among motorcyclists, featuring numerous curves and passing through Holly River State Park.
The park provides campsites and cabins, making it a great spot for an overnight stay. With light traffic and charming small towns along the way, Route 20 offers a peaceful and scenic ride through the heart of West Virginia. These top five motorcycle routes showcase the best of what West Virginia has to offer, from challenging mountain roads to historic byways.
Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or simply the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, these routes promise an unforgettable riding experience..
