East Tn, VA, NC Loop

[Midrsv]

I found a ride report in Roadrunner Magazine a few months back that I found interesting. It begins and ends in Jelico, TN and travels through east TN, southwest VA and northwest NC. I and group of friends plan to ride the same route in a few weeks and we plan on doing it in 3 days from Lexington, KY. Here is a link to the route on HD's ride planner.

 

http://rideplanner.harley-davidson.com/rideplanner/share/236707

 

For those of you familiar with the area, does this look reasonable to do in 3 days and do you have any recommendations for hotels or restaurants in the area?

 

Thanks,

Dennis

[alwrmcusn]

I've never ridden that loop, but I've lived, driven and ridden most of that area at one time or another. 3 days should be enough time to do that. As for lodging, the larger cities/towns should have the usual amenities. Hannah and I stayed in Johnson City, TN a couple of months back as we returned from MerleFest in Wilkseboro, NC. Thats a nice drive BTW, especially if you enjoy the curvy two laners.

[Venturous Randy]

I am not sure if this is the same article as I have, but if it is, it could easily be done in three days. If it is the same article, it talked about Backbone Rock, between Shady Vally,TN and Damascus, VA and the shortest tunnel, even showing a picture of a bike parked at the entrance.

I live in Johnson City, TN, so I am just about in the middle of what you are talking about. If you will give an idea of where you plan to be when, I will try to make some suggestions. We have an abundance of places to eat and sleep around here, but maybe we can help put a trip together, and I would love to meet with you guys for a meal and maybe some riding.

Keep me posted and my cell is 423-726-0431.

RandyA

[Bob Myers]

For those of you familiar with the area, does this look reasonable to do in 3 days and do you have any recommendations for hotels or restaurants in the area?

 

Thanks,

Dennis

 

3 days easy. 2 days ride if you wish. 1day if you are serious

With the exception of the jaunt from Surgoinsville to Tazewell on their route, and Grayson Highlands State Park to Sugar Grove we have ridden those roads. Not much after Abbingdon for motel or fancy sit down restaurants, until you get back to Mtn City.

Edited June 26, 2009 by Bob Myers