Southern Virginia is a diverse cross section of America. It sweeps from the coastal plain to the higher hidden ridges of the Appalachians. Touring travelers have a feast not only on the fine roads in Virginia, but on the great venues to sample delicious regional foods while taking in outstanding scenery.
Any ride within The Virginia South collection is sure to provide you with ample chances to discover this golden slice of the near south.
The Yellow Ride starts off in Marion, VA - named for American Revolutionary War officer Francis Marion. This town has all the creature comforts you might need – so feel free to start your ride here after a good night’s rest.
The journey starts off quite calmly as you head north on Rt. 11- formerly the main road along the Shenandoah Valley. This is dotted with scenes of defunct and faded businesses mixed with new modern day eye popping corporate America.
Dan Bard
At Route 90 turn left heading north. Just under I-81, Rt. 90 ends and you pick up 680 which take you up and down some gentle topography to the point where you may not notice your overall ascent.
Once on Rt. 52 you’ll notice that you are still heading up, and floating around you are the mountain ridges you will be traversing. This section of Rt. 52 is known as the Big Walker National Scenic Byway. You’ll no doubt notice signs for “Big Walker Lookout” and since are in the neighborhood, you might as well stop for a look.
Just pass this local landmark; you will start your dive into the valley that leads you to Bland and a scenic drive along the lowlands on your way to Rt. 61. You will play Hide N’ Seek with Interstate 77 as Rt. 52 blazed the trail for the modern 4-lane. However, you will have a much better chance to see rural life from this now local road.
Gale Bard
The landscape turns to lush meadows as you head west on 61 towards Tazewell. It’s like riding in either Scotland or Ireland with the gently rounded hills and bright grass opening up along your way.
As you roll along this bucolic area, note off to your left a line of mountains. Soon, you will make the turn onto 623 and discover what’s on the other side. Before that however, you’ll have worn some of the edges of your tires and your shifting foot will be well warmed. 623 may have some accommodations of the topography made by man, but the road pretty much twists and turn as Mother Nature laid down the topsoil.
Dan Bard
Once on the downward slope, note that you have to come out the same way you went in – ah, such a happy thought. Shortly, you will come to a left fork where you can do the circuit around Burkes Garden. You wouldn’t know it, but the elevation here is about 3000 feet, which makes this “valley” the highest in Virginia. And, note too, the valley is completely flanked by looming ridges that run from about 500 to 1500 feet high.
Actually, if you bring up the area on Google Maps and check the satellite view, this area looks like a volcano. It’s actually a creation of Nature, come to be known in places as Gods Thumbprint.
The folks there are danged friendly, but please respect their homeland. It’s beautiful there, so don’t litter and do behave. Make sure they want to welcome others motorcyclists. Stop by the community store for a snack or meal – or for some local conversation.
Once you get ready for the next segment, fire up your mounts and plunge on through civilization via Tazewell to take on the rural challenge of Rt. 16 back to Marion.
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