Best Scenic Motorcycle Rides: Deep South Edition
We?re back to help you plan your amazing motorcycle vacations. Today, GothRider takes you into the Deep South of the United States for five amazing scenic rides.
The Arkansas Dragon
North of Hot Springs, Highway 123 intersects with Highway 7. If you take Highway 123 north, there is amazing scenery for about 15 miles to Mt. Judea.
There are so many curves and switchbacks that trucks are not allowed on the route. This has the added bonus of keeping the roads in great conditions. The feel of the turns is exhilarating, and you?re surrounded by forest on both sides.
Georgia?s Dragon-The Suches Loop
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Suches Loop is not for amateur bikers. Head north on Route 60 from Dahlonega, Georgia into the Chattahoochee National Forest. The winding mountain route gets narrow and dangerous on Route 180, so be prepared to drive safely.
Go in the fall for the vibrant colors of the national forest. Enjoy the sharp turns and three mountain passes with incredible views. End back in Dahlonega, which is a great destination for a weekend getaway.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Off Highway 21 in the barrier islands of South Carolina lies the quaint town of Beaufort. Beaufort is surrounded by water throughout the town with boardwalks and a historic district. The town is motorcycle-friendly, with great restaurants to stop and take in the scenery.
If you follow Highway 21 east toward the ocean, you?ll pass a national cemetery with the graves of Civil War heroes. End at Hunting Island State Park?an oceanfront, motorcycle-friendly park with cheap camping and amazing nature photo opportunities.
Caesar?s Head, South Carolina
Another South Carolina route ending at a picturesque state park is Caesar?s Head. Head north out of Cleveland, South Carolina. The ride is short?most of the views are within a six mile stretch, but the climb up the mountain is breathtaking.
Go in the fall or winter for the best views. During the summer, the foliage is so thick it hides much of the mountain scenery. The roads have sweeps and tight turns for any motorcyclist to enjoy.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee
Get ready for a road trip all on its own. Starting in Natchez, Mississippi and stretching over 400 miles to Leipers Fork, Tennessee, enjoy this All American Road on your bike for the best views.
Throughout much of the southern part of the road, you?ll pass beautiful forests of dogwoods, oaks, and magnolias. In the northwest corner of Alabama, you will cross the Tennessee River and end in the Appalachian Mountains. The route has thousands of years of history, with museums and historic sites to tour all along the way.
Have you been to any of these locations? What are your favorite Deep South motorcycle rides?
