Top Motorcycle Roads in Ohio
Ohio offers a diverse landscape for motorcycle enthusiasts, from the rolling hills of Appalachia to the scenic shores of Lake Erie. Before we dive into the Buckeye State’s top routes, it’s worth noting that neighboring states like Pennsylvania and West Virginia also boast excellent riding opportunities. Many Ohio riders enjoy crossing state lines to experience the winding roads of the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky or the lakeside curves of Michigan.
1. Ohio Route 555: The Triple Nickel
- Location: Southeastern Ohio, from Zanesville to Little Hocking
- Distance: 63 miles
- Key features: Challenging twists and curves, rolling hills, elevation changes
- Difficulty: High (not recommended for beginners)
- Highlights: Passes through Wayne National Forest, rural farmland
The Triple Nickel is renowned among Ohio riders for its technical riding experience. This road demands full attention as it snakes through the Appalachian foothills, offering a thrilling combination of sharp turns and elevation changes.
2. Ohio Route 26
- Location: Eastern Ohio, from Marietta to Woodsfield
- Key features: Winding road, scenic views, covered bridges
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best time: Autumn for fall foliage
- Highlights: Passes through Appalachian foothills, Amish farmland
Route 26 offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and enjoyable riding. The road winds through picturesque landscapes, including Amish country, making it an ideal route for those who appreciate cultural and natural attractions.
3. Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
- Location: Hocking Hills region
- Distance: 151.6 miles
- Key features: Smooth, well-paved roads with twisty turns and roller-coaster hills
- Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels
- Highlights: Passes through Hocking Hills State Park, attractions like Conkle’s Hollow and Ash Cave
This byway offers a perfect mix of riding enjoyment and natural attractions. Riders can take breaks to explore the region’s famous rock formations and waterfalls.
4. hio Route 78
- Location: Southeastern Ohio, between Glouster and McConnelsville
- Distance: 20 miles (for the most popular section)
- Key features: Tight twisty roads, elevation changes, nicknamed “Ohio’s Dragon’s Tail”
- Difficulty: High
- Highlights: Passes near Burr Oak State Park and Wayne National Forest
Often compared to the famous Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee, Route 78 offers a similarly challenging ride with its tight turns and scenic vistas. It’s a favorite among experienced riders looking to test their skills.
5. Ohio Route 56
- Location: Southern Ohio, southwest of Columbus
- Distance: 111 miles
- Key features: Mix of wide turns and tight twists, rolling hills
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Passes through farmlands, Hocking Hills, ends in Appalachian foothills
Route 56 provides a diverse riding experience, starting with gentle curves through farmland and progressively becoming more challenging as it enters the Hocking Hills region. It’s an excellent choice for a full day of varied riding.
6. State Route 374
- Location: Hocking Hills region
- Key features: Very curvy and hilly, tree-lined
- Difficulty: Moderate to high
- Highlights: Runs through Hocking Hills State Park
State Route 374 is a motorcyclist’s dream, offering a perfect combination of technical riding and natural beauty. The road’s tight curves and elevation changes are complemented by the lush forests of Hocking Hills State Park.
Best Motorcycle Rides in Ohio
1. Ohio’s Windy 9
- Location: Southeastern Ohio, centered around Athens
- Distance: Nearly 800 miles total (9 routes, each 50-100 miles)
- Key features: Winding roads, scenic Appalachian region
- Highlights: Includes popular routes like the Triple Nickel and Rim of the World
The Windy 9 is a collection of nine scenic routes that showcase the best of Southeastern Ohio’s riding. Each loop offers a unique experience, from challenging twisties to relaxing countryside cruises.
2. The Three Rivers
- Location: Coshocton County
- Distance: 105 miles (two loops)
- Key features: Paved roads, mix of scenery
- Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels
- Highlights: Appalachian foothills, Amish farmland, covered bridges, starts in historic Roscoe Village
The Three Rivers ride offers a diverse experience, combining scenic roads with cultural attractions. It’s an excellent choice for riders interested in Ohio’s history and rural charm.
3. Woodbury Wildlife Loop
- Location: Eastern Ohio
- Key features: Scenic route through rural areas
- Highlights: Passes through Woodbury Wildlife Area
This loop takes riders through the heart of Ohio’s wildlife areas, offering chances to spot local fauna and enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
4. Lazy Rivers Route
- Location: Southeastern Ohio
- Distance: 101 miles
- Key features: Snakes along the Ohio River
- Highlights: Passes river locks and dams, biker-friendly town of Pomeroy with river views
The Lazy Rivers Route offers a more relaxed riding experience, following the contours of the Ohio River. It’s perfect for those who enjoy waterside scenery and small-town charm.
Motorcycle Laws in Ohio
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Ohio’s motorcycle laws. Key points include mandatory helmet use for riders under 18, eye protection requirements, and specific equipment regulations. Always check for the most up-to-date information to ensure a safe and legal ride.
Conclusion
Ohio’s diverse landscape offers something for every motorcycle enthusiast, from challenging mountain roads to scenic river routes. As you plan your Ohio motorcycle adventure, consider extending your trip to explore the twisting roads of Indiana or the scenic byways of Illinois. Each neighboring state adds its own flavor to the Midwest riding experience, making Ohio an excellent starting point for a multi-state motorcycle journey.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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