Best Motorcycle Roads & Destinations in West Virginia, United States

1. Introduction

If you are heading to West Virginia or “the Mountain State,” many interesting sights await you as you plan out the details for your motorcycle trip. The routes that you can take cut through or climb over the Appalachian and Blue Mountain regions. You will be able to navigate plateaus to mountains which can take you up to heights of at least 1,500 feet above sea level. Many of the destinations you will be able to visit will include Civil War historical sites, scenic railroads, and establishments displaying Appalachian culture.

This article is intended to provide a list of West Virginia’s famous motorcycle roads and destinations including supplementary information on this state’s motorcycle laws and possible luggage options.

2. Best Roads and Destinations in West Virginia

Best Roads and Destinations in West Virginia - motorcycle roads and destination

2.1 US-33 Through the Shenandoah Valley

US-33 Through the Shenandoah Valley - motorcycle roads and destination

Starting in Harrisonburg, you can check out the exhibits or gift shops of the Explore More Discovery Museum and Virginia Quilt Museum. Departing northwest on US Route 33 and Rawley Pike, you will pass in close proximity to Riven Rock Park, Switzer Lake Recreation Area, and Railroad Hollow. This section of the trip will take you through the George Washington National Forest.

Distance: 101 miles
Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Start: Harrisonburg, VA
End: Elkins, WV

After crossing over the Virginia-West Virginia border, you will enter the Monongahela National Forest. As you head northward toward Seneca Rocks, you may catch sight of Seneca Caverns, Bogg’s Mill, and Seneca Rocks South Peak as you draw closer. If you are looking for a campsite, Seneca Rocks is an ideal location due to the area overlooking the sheer rock faces and valley floors below.

Heading westward, you will pass by the Potomac Wildlife Management Area, Mt. Porte Crayon, Bickle Knob Observation Tower, and Stuart Recreation Area. You can take a hike and cross the bridge along the Allegheny Trail which is part of the US 33 Trailhead. Upon arriving in Elkins, you can get a bite to eat at The Forks, Smoke on the Water BBQ, and C.J. Maggie’s.

2.2 US-50 - George Washington Highway

US-50 - George Washington Highway - motorcycle roads and destination

While you are still in Grafton, you can pay respects to fallen veterans from the Civil War to the Vietnam War at the Grafton National Cemetery. If you happen to be passing by around Mother’s Day, you can show your appreciation at the International Mother’s Day Shrine.

Distance:53 miles
Time:1 hour 16 minutes
Start:Grafton
End:Mt. Storm

As you follow along US-50, you will pass by Siggens Hollow, Fellowsville Park, and Cathedral State Park. During the middle portion of the route, you will pass by the northern tip of the Monongahela National Forest.

After passing over into Maryland for a few miles, you will return to West Virginia to finish off the route by arriving in Mount Storm. Much of your surroundings will include mountains, valleys, and rivers. You will find this road enjoyable to navigate thanks to it being full of twists and turns

2.3 The Midland Trail

The Midland Trail - motorcycle roads and destination

Starting in Charleston, you will have the opportunity to check out the West Virginia State Museum. For the majority of this route, you will follow alongside the Kanawha River. Between Charleston to Charlton Heights, you will pass by the Kanawha Valley Memorial Gardens and Montgomery Memorial Park.

Distance:115 miles
Time:2 hours 43 minutes
Start:Charleston
End:White Sulphur Springs

Continuing from Charleton to Crawley, you will catch sight of the Kanawha River Museum, Gauley River Bridge, Cathedral Falls, Mystery Hole, and Hawk’s Nest State Park.

As you make progress towards White Sulphur Springs, you may be able to check out the stands at the WV Renaissance Festival if you are lucky enough to come when it is set up. You can also explore the Lost World Caverns and Greenbrier State Forest as you get closer to your final destination.

2.4 Route 20’s Twisties

Route 20’s Twisties - motorcycle roads and destination

Embarking from Charmco, much of the lower sections of this road will not be as well-paved so you should be mindful when riding over rough terrain. As you head northward, you will travel through and skirt around the western edges of the Monongahela National Forest.

Distance:118 miles
Time:2 hours 51 minutes
Start:Charmco
End:Buckhannon

After you leave Monongahela National Forest, you will pass by Lover’s Lane Boardwalk and Camp Holly. Eventually, you will intersect with the western edge of Holly River State Park along the Laurel Fork

Continuing to wind towards Buckhannon, you will pass by the Fidler Mill, West Virginia State Wildlife Center, Grub Hollow, and Upshur County Recreational Park. Much of your surroundings will be rolling countryside full of sprawling pastures and thick forested hills.

2.5 The Highland Scenic Route

the Highland scenic route - motorcycle roads and destination

Taking a roundabout route around the western side of the Monongahela National Forest, you will first come across the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center and the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. Shortly after the first bend within the Monongahela National Forest, you can take the hiking trail up to the High Rocks.

Distance:34 miles
Time:42 minutes
Start:Mill Point
End:WV-150

Continuing northward, you will get the chance to scan the surrounding wilderness from the William River Valley, Big Spruce, and Little Laurel Overlooks. You also have the opportunity to take a hike up the North-South, Big Beechy, Honeycomb Rocks, Gauley Mountain, and Red Spruce Knob Trailheads

Much of your surroundings will alternate between the plateaus and the highlands with plenty of dense forests. The road tends to stay relatively isolated and has lots of good curves for you to navigate.

2.6 Helvetia Road

Helvetia Road - motorcycle roads and destination

Starting out in Mill Creek, you can sample drinks at the Mill Creek Pub or grab a quick lunch at the Pizza & Sub Shoppe. As you head westward, you will ride over rolling hills and travel through tree tunnels with the canopy filtering the sunlight overhead.

Distance:39 miles
Time:1 hour 9 minutes
Start:Mill Creek
End:Rock Cave

After arriving in Helvetia, you could take a slight detour towards the south and check out the Helvetia Historic Hilltop Farm. Continuing onward, you will start to travel alongside Buckhannon River. You may be able to check out the beverages at Fullmoon or see the branching of the Buckhannon River at the town of Alexander.

As you draw closer to Rock Cave, you will travel atop ridges that help give you high views of the nearby small communities and surrounding landscape. If the season is right, you could get to pick up fresh produce from the Green Acres Farm & Greenhouse.

2.7 WV State Route 9 - Berkeley Springs to Paw Paw

WV State Route 9 - Berkeley Springs to Paw Paw - motorcycle roads and destination

As you look around Berkeley Springs, you may get to take part in outdoor activities at David Henry Memorial Park or Berkeley Springs Bike & Skate Park. If you are looking for an unusual historical site, you can check out the remains of George Washington’s Bathtub.

Distance:25 miles
Time:35 minutes
Start:Berkeley Springs
End:Paw Paw

As you curve around Cacapon Road, you will pass by Widmeyer Wildlife Management Area. Coasting along the wilderness, make sure to be careful of any deer that may be crossing the road. If you head up to Prospect Peak, you will find spots that overlook the dense forests below and are perfect for taking pictures

Continuing southward, most of your surroundings will include quaint farms, scenic overlooks, mountains, and rivers. As you curve around the last bend before you head straight for Paw Paw, you can get an ice cream cone at Purple Cow Soft Serve.

2.8 US 219 - Elkins to Summersville

US 219 - Elkins to Summersville - motorcycle roads and destination

Heading southward away from Elkins, you will eventually enter into the northwestern region of the Monongahela National Forest. You will travel alongside the Tygart Valley River on the Seneca Trail which will eventually take you beside the Valley Bend Wetland Wildlife Management Area.

Distance:126 miles
Time:2 hours 41 minutes
Start:Elkins
End:Summersville

Continuing in the same direction, you will pass in between Kumbrabow State Forest and Monongahela National Forest. You may be able to make out Mill Creek Falls in the distance. As you swerve through the wilderness, you will pass by Tea Creek, Handley, and Cranberry Wildlife Management Areas.

Eventually intersecting with the Highland Scenic Highway, you will have the opportunity to take a hike up the North-South, Big Beechy, Honeycomb Rocks, Gauley Mountain, and Red Spruce Knob Trailheads

2.9 Parkersburg-Clay-Harrisville Loop

Parkersburg-Clay-Harrisville Loop - motorcycle roads and destination

While you are still in Parkersburg, you can check out the exhibits at the Oil & Gas Museum or the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History. You can also take a leisurely stroll through Point Park or Quincy Park. The highlight of the city is Parkersburg City Park which has a swimming pool, sports facilities, and picnic sites.

Distance:196 miles
Time:4 hours 38 minutes
Start:Parkersburg
End:Parkserburg

As you exit the city, you will pass by Arlington Memorial Gardens. As you travel on the northern side of the loop, you will be alongside the Ohio River and the West Virginia-Ohio border. Traveling southward on the eastern side of the loop, you will be within the vicinity of Calhoun County Park and Upper West Fork Park.

Turning west on the southern side of the loop, you will catch sight of Wallback Lake as you wind around Jennings Randolph Highway and Clay Road. Approaching the final leg of the journey, you will head north on the west side of the loop while traveling alongside the Little Kanawha River.

2.10 West Virginia 39

West Virginia 39 - motorcycle roads and destination

Heading east away from Summersville, you will enter the western region of the Monongahela National Forest. Diving into the heart of the wilderness, you will get to admire Falls of Hills Creek and Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. If you wish to take time off of your motorcycle, you can check out Tri Rivers Rail Trail, Summit Lake Campground, or Kennison Mountain Trailhead.

Distance:93 miles
Time:2 hours 10 minutes
Start:Summersville, WV
End:Warm Springs, VA

Leaving the Monongahela National Forest behind and entering the George Washington National Forest, you will be able to scout out the Marlington Creek & Campground close to the entrance. Continuing on Huntersville Road, you will pass by Devils Backbone, Possum Hollow, and Buzzard Hollow.

Crossing over the border into Virginia, you will encounter Fort Dinwiddie along the way as you draw closer to Warm Springs. Within the vicinity of the town is the Warm Springs Valley and the Bath County Historical Society.

2.11 West Virginia State Route 72

West Virginia State Route 72 - motorcycle roads and destination

If you happen to be in Kingwood during the right season, you may get to witness the Preston County Buckwheat Festival. If you are willing to take a detour northward, you should be able to see the exotic wildlife being kept at Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo.

Distance:Kingwood
Time:1 hour 21 minutes
Start:Kingwood
End:Dry Fork District

Traveling southward alongside the Cheat River, you will eventually arrive in Rowlesburg. As you explore the town, you will be able to relax in Rowlesburg Park or check out the exhibits at the Greatest Generation Museum.

Continuing to head south, you will enter the northern tip of the Monongahela National Forest via the Cheat Valley Highway. As you continue to wind around the slowly narrowing Cheat River, you will transition onto Dry Fork Road.

Getting closer to the end of the route, you will pass by Table Rock, Red Run Falls, and Dry Fork Trailhead. Most of the road should be well paved after you have passed Rowlesburg, but you should keep an eye out for any red clay fragments scattered on the surface of the road.

2.12 West Virginia US Route 219

West Virginia US Route 219 - motorcycle roads and destination

As you head northward away from Elkins, you will pass by the Mountain State Memorial Gardens. If you prefer more excitement, you could check out the vehicles at the Elkins Raceway. As you continue to travel on Seneca Trail, you will eventually enter the northwestern region of the Monongahela National Forest.

Distance:37 miles
Time:52 miles
Start:Elkins
End:Thomas

Continuing to wind through the wilderness, you will pass by Shingletree Trail before you make it to Parson. While you are exploring Parson, you can take a gander through River City Park and Mill Race Park.

For the remainder of the trip, you will continue to wind around on Seneca Trail until you exit on the eastern side of Monongahela National Forest. You will pass by Olson Tower and Fred Long Centennial Park before you make it to Thomas.

3. Motorcycle Laws in West Virginia

Motorcycle Laws in West Virginia

3.1 West Virginia Motorcycle Helmet Laws

West Virginia is a state that follows a universal motorcycle helmet policy. This requires motorcyclists of every age to wear a motorcycle helmet whenever they are operating their vehicles

The types of motorcycle helmets accepted in West Virginia are three-quarter and full-face helmets. Both models have been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation, were manufactured by the Snell Memorial Foundation or the American National Standards Institute, and provide both ample protection and visibility.

As you select your bike helmet, check that they meet the following requirements and are designed with the proper features:

Has a Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker

Can be fitted around your head snugly

No visible signs of damage

Has a face shield with no scratches (Full-face helmet only)

Requires separate eye protection with no scratches (Three-quarter helmet only)

Has a hard and durable outer shell that is shatter-resistant

Gives you a clear, peripheral view

Can be fastened with a neck- or chin-strap

Allows airflow without fogging up

Can allow you to wear sunglasses or goggles underneath

3.2 West Virginia Motorcycle Passenger Laws

West Virginia does not have a minimum age requirement for motorcycle passengers. All motorcycle passengers must be wearing protective gear while they are seated behind you.

You are only allowed to transport a passenger on your motorcycle if it is fitted with the following equipment: a designated passenger seat, handholds, and footrests.

The passenger seat can either be fixed to the side as a sidecar, at the rear as a separate saddle, or at the back of a large driver’s seat.

Characteristics to look for in potential passengers are individuals who listen to directions, follow your movements, cannot be carrying packages in their arms, are wearing protective attire, and can reach the footrests.

3.3 West Virginia Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

In West Virginia, you are required to conduct yearly inspections to check if your motorcycle meets this state’s safety and equipment requirements. It is best that you provide maintenance if the primary components are becoming worn out, damaged, or faulty. Due to the lack of redundant systems, a motorcycle’s overall functionality will become compromised if a single part starts to fail. A motorcycle needs all of the machinery to be in good condition for it to work properly.

You need the following minimum requirements fitted to your motorcycle for the vehicle to meet the safety requirements in West Virginia. They must be working at optimal capacity to help you quickly avoid obstacles, improve your visibility to other drivers, and increase awareness of your surroundings:

Horn

Wheels

Tires

Handlebars

Front & Rear Brakes

Controls

Headlight

Taillight

Brake Light

Turn Signals

Exhaust System

Muffler

Rearview Mirrors

3.4 West Virginia Lane Splitting Laws

In West Virginia, any motorcyclists that are caught lane splitting will be penalized by local law enforcement. You cannot ride on top of the dividing lines in between traffic lanes, ride in between adjacent rows of stopped vehicles, nor attempt to overtake a larger vehicle in front of you while both of you are traveling in the same lane.

On the other side, you are permitted to make full use of the whole space within the lane you are currently traveling in. You also can lane share with another rider so long as both of you do not exceed staying apart two abreast and consent to this beforehand.

4. Motorcycle Luggage for West Virginia Motorcycle Tour

Motorcycle Luggage for West Virginia Motorcycle Tour - motorcycle roads and destination

Even if you have a well laid-out plan for where you want to go or what you want to do on your West Virginia motorcycle trip, there can be unexpected developments that could divert from the original course. Your eyes may catch sight of a hidden roadside attraction or your motorcycle may start to experience mechanical trouble. During times you are off of your motorcycle, either for recreation or due to an emergency, you will want access to easy-to-carry items that will help with utility, comfort, etc. But first you must purchase the right baggage for your motorcycle to carry all of the things you will need during your journey.

Listed below are the motorcycle luggage options you can choose from. All of them have zippered and/or mesh pockets, are made of durable and weather-resistant materials, and come with an installation guide for easy mounting. They differ in terms of design, color, size, and placement position to offer you diverse choices:

5. Parting Words

motorcycle road and destinations

Though West Virginia may have a landscape suitable for your motorcycle to travel on, you will not be able to enjoy your motorcycle trip to the fullest if you lack familiarity with this state’s notable sites, diverse terrain, and motorcycle laws. The purpose of a motorcycle trip is to have fun exploring and spending time with your favorite vehicle. But if you are not careful when on the road, your vacation could easily end up turning into a disaster.

If you are an out-of-state tourist, the motorcycle laws in West Virginia could differ greatly from the regulations you are used to back home. Memorizing the rules of the road and adjusting the way you operate a motorcycle will help keep you from getting into trouble with the police.

Regardless of how much distance you plan to travel or how many days your West Virginia motorcycle trip will last, you should make sure to examine the condition of your motorcycle before every ride. You should also make sure to attach motorcycle luggage that suits the model, year, and make of the vehicle you own so that none of your belongings fly off into the wind.

As West Virginia has no shortage of motorcycle roads, it is possible to research and find other exciting routes to take your motorcycle on. Whether covering a long or short distance, they may have roadside attractions that pique your interests. Or perhaps you are more interested in navigating the twisties, swerves, and switchbacks as a way to test your riding skills.

Remember to act responsibly as you handle your motorcycle and remember to make the most of your experience as you set out on your West Virginia motorcycle trip.