This ride starts just south-west of Beckley, WV and ends in nearby Sandy Springs. It follows a general oval pattern and takes you into parts of the historic coal regions of West Virginia.
The flavor of the ride changes ever so gently as you travel across the hills and valleys of this part of the Mountain State. You can be in a remote wilderness area for a stretch, then find yourself going by the old coal mining “company” houses and stores, and then realize yet again that the scenery has changed to modern rural-America. The abandoned businesses that once supported the coal industry in this area make for interesting scenery as you travel these roads. You can almost imagine how it was, not that long ago, when the people in this area were beholding to the coal company - not only for their jobs, but for most everything else.There are ample opportunities to pull off and explore towns and buildings, as well as hike a trail or sit by a mountain stream. There are many fine places to stop and be creative with your camera.
There are enough gas stations dotting the route; so you will have no worries there. Restaurants, diners and drive-ins are found when needed and the food is often prepared fresh for you as you relax over a cold beverage. No need to rush, as the fast-food places are few and far between.
Dan Bard
The roads run a wide range of type and terrain. The route has a lot of nice curves that will require your attention, as-well-as plenty of gently curving scenic sections and a few good straight-aways that let you relax and allow you to fully enjoy what a great trip you are on. When traveling through this part of West Virginia, you will indeed know why they call it the Mountain State - for you will be climbing and diving through those mountains quite often.
If you care to spend a night, you will find motels and hotels around the larger towns of Beckley and Princeton. You will also find a few motels along the route, but don’t expect your typical chain motels. Here you will find motels that cater either to hunters and fishermen, or to outdoor enthusiasts. If you have the adventurous spirit and want to enjoy the outdoors – take advantage of the State Park campgrounds that speckle the ride route.
Dan Bard
The ride is easily accessible from the WV Turnpike (I-77). In total, the ride is 183.4 miles and approximately 5 hours of actual riding time. However, we suggest that you take your time and enjoy the scenery and attractions along the route. This ride includes several alternate routes that will allow you to adjust your travel time and distance if needed.
This month’s featured ride is provided by Moto-Maps® from their West Virginia booklet and was created by Dan Bard – a Moto-Maps’ colleague and co-author of Great Roads, Great Rides.
Click on the map, legend and directions below to enlarge.
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