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some of the best motorcycle routes in virginia

Known as “Virginia’s most rider-friendly town,” Monterey is, has, and always will be

a motorcyclist’s haven. In more ways than one.

Motorcycle Back Roads - Highland County, Virginia

Whether you’re rhythmically swaying down the twists and turns of a mountain or opening up your engine on a stunning straight stretch, Highland County, Virginia is motorcycle-friendly in every aspect of the term. From the community’s welcoming hospitality to the scenic paths that lead through the county’s postcard-worthy farmlands. In Highland, we lovingly embrace our two-wheeled travelers. And it shows…

Are you wondering if Highland County boasts some of the best routes for motorcycle rides? It does, but don’t just take our word for it. Click here to see what others have to say. Then, book a stay at Monterey Campground to enjoy your own motorcycle road trip!

Book an Excursion with

Allegheny Motorcycle Tours!

MotoCamp GPS Coordinates

N 38º 21.257 ft

W 079º 38.074 ft

“It’s Motorcycle Nirvana Out Here…”

See how Dan Kauffman, owner of Allegheny Motorcycle Tours and Monterey Campground, views the motorcycling experience in and around Highland County, Virginia.

“Motorcycling is about a lot of different things to different people. For me, it’s about Flow. Flow is when the rider and the machine merge to become a single kinesthetic experience.” Read more..

Book an Excursion with Allegheny Motorcycle Tours!

what others have to say

Virginia is for Motorcycle Lovers - Virginia Tourism Corporation 2

U.S. Route 250: From Staunton to Monterey

“For a challenging mountain motorcycle ride, take Route 250 from Staunton to Monterey. After leaving Staunton, you’ll drive through the Shenandoah Valley and enter the George Washington National Forest. The mountains provide several panoramic vista views of the valleys below, and although this trip can be done in a little over an hour, it will probably take closer to two once you stop to admire the scenery. During the fall, the mountain ranges are bright with the colorful variety of foliage, and the curvaceous portion that crosses Shenandoah Mountain will excite even the most experienced rider. Shortly after crossing the mountains, you’ll enter Monterey, which has been called the “most rider friendly town” because of the large population of motorcycle enthusiasts, who are almost always willing to give advice or help to other riders.”

Source: “Virginia is for Motorcycle Lovers!” (Virginia Tourism Corporation)

Best Motorcycle Roads in Virginia - YouTube - Highland County

Best Motorcycle Roads in Virginia!

“Next on our list for the best motorcycle roads in Virginia is Route 250… This road takes you through a beautiful section of the Appalachian Mountains in the southwestern corner of Virginia. At various points, it offers wide-ranging views of the surrounding mountains. There’s some great curves and hair-pin turns to be had on this two-lane mountain road. Technically challenging switchbacks and changes in elevation await on every stretch of the road. In fact, this is one of the most challenging motorcycle roads in the state. As you ride through the deep woods of George Washington National Forest, the road weaves up and down hilly terrain on an adrenaline-fueled adventure… Shortly after crossing the mountains, you’ll come to Monterey, Virginia, which evidently is known as “the most rider-friendly town,” with their exceptional hospitality.

Source: “Best Motorcycle Roads in Virginia!” (Great Motorcycle Roads – YouTube – 4:01)

Epic Road Trip through Virginia's Western Highlands - Recreation News

Take an Epic Road Trip through Virginia’s Western Highlands

“As the least populous county in Virginia combined with an off-the-beaten-path location in the mountains, you would expect outdoor adventures to be abundant in Highland County. You will not be disappointed. The fishing in the cool, clear rivers and streams is world-class. Hiking and biking is exceptional, with breathtaking views at practically every turn. After all, the county is sometimes referred to as “Virginia’s Little Switzerland.” Try climbing over 100 steps on the restored Sounding Knob Fire Tower just outside of Monterey.”

Source: “Take an Epic Road Trip through Virginia’s Western Highlands” (Recreation News)

Great Places to Ride - Virginia Rider Magazine

Great Places to Ride – Falling off the Radar

“I may be biased. No, strike that. I am. As a resident, it’s hard to beat Highland County, Virginia. The possible loops are as endless as there are hidden roads. And one of Rose’s and my favorites is the ride from Meadowdale to Blue Grass. The valley is always stunning. But the first time we rode it in the fall, was like being between two tidal waves of magnificent color. Notable stops for eats include The Blue Grass Mercantile and The Curly Maple… The overdose of wide-open space in the wind here has no words.”

Source: “Great Places to Ride – Falling off the Radar,” page 6, September 2023 issue (Virginia Rider Magazine)

Virginia's Allegheny Highlands - Blue Ridge Motorcycling magazine

Virginia’s Alleghany Highlands: Far Off the Beaten Path, But Not Too Far

The Blue Grass Valley is one of Virginia’s loveliest places. The valley is bordered by mountains that are forested in magnificent hardwood trees from the top half-way down to where pasture takes over. Multi-generational sugar orchards owned by the Rexrode and Puffenbarger families bring thousands of tourists to the area each spring when the sap is running, piped into tiny factories where the water is boiled off to make syrup. A half-dozen syrup camps dot Highland County, the farthest south location of commercial production.”

Source: “Virginia’s Allegheny Highlands: Far Off the Beaten Path, But Not Too Far” (Blue Ridge Motorcycling magazine)

Monterey Campground is approximately 20 Miles from

the Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route

Backcountry Discovery Route - Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route

The Mid-Atlantic Backcountry Discovery Route (MABDR) is the eighth BDR route developed for dual-sport and adventure motorcycle travel. It is a scenic ride that uses dirt, gravel, and paved roads to wind through remote parts of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Starting in Damascus, Virginia, and ending in Lawrenceville, Tioga County, Pennsylvania, this 1,080-mile route primarily uses forest roads and rural country lanes to lead riders through the Appalachian mountains, majestic forests, bucolic farming landscapes, Amish country, and locations that played pivotal roles in early American history.

Book an Excursion with Allegheny Motorcycle Tours!