Top Motorcycle Roads in South Carolina
South Carolina offers a diverse range of riding experiences for motorcycle enthusiasts, from coastal routes to mountain roads. Before we dive into the Palmetto State’s best rides, it’s worth noting that neighboring states like North Carolina and Georgia also offer excellent riding opportunities that can easily be combined with your South Carolina adventure.
1. The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway
- Location: Northwest South Carolina
- Distance: 194 miles
- Key features: Mountain views, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, forests, wildlife
- Highlights: Table Rock State Park, Blue Ridge Escarpment region
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (mostly straight with gently rolling hills)
- Best time to ride: Year-round, especially beautiful in autumn
- Notable attractions: State parks, connecting to other popular routes like Hwy 28 and US-276
The Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast visiting South Carolina. This picturesque route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
2. Route 61 (Ashley River Road)
- Location: Ashley River Historic District
- Distance: 51 miles
- Key features: Historic district, oak and hickory-lined road, plantations
- Difficulty: Easy
- Notable attractions: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Middleton Place Plantation
For a taste of South Carolina’s rich history, Route 61 offers a scenic ride through the Ashley River Historic District.
3. Lake Murray’s Treasures
- Location: Starts in Lexington, SC
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Key features: Lake views, smooth roads, scenic dam crossing
- Difficulty: Easy (great for beginners)
- Notable attractions: Towns of Prosperity and White Rock
The Lake Murray Loop offers a relaxing ride with beautiful water views, making it ideal for riders of all skill levels.
4. Highway 28
- Location: Northwest South Carolina
- Distance: 17 miles
- Key features: Great curves, beautiful scenery, low traffic
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Notable attractions: Continues into Georgia and North Carolina for extended riding
Highway 28 is perfect for riders looking for a challenging route with minimal traffic and stunning views.
5. Caesars Head State Park Route
- Location: Cleveland, SC to Caesar’s Head State Park
- Distance: 16 miles
- Key features: Twisting mountain road, epic overlook scenery, heavily wooded curves
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (quick ascent, tight curves)
- Best time to ride: All seasons, particularly stunning in fall
- Notable attractions: Caesar’s Head State Park lookout area
US-276 provides a thrilling ride through the mountains, culminating in breathtaking views from Caesar’s Head State Park.
6. Savannah River Scenic Byway
- Location: Parallels South Carolina-Georgia border
- Distance: Approximately 3 hours
- Key features: Rural scenery, forests, lakes, rivers, parks, historical areas
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (suitable for beginners and experienced riders)
- Highlights: Light traffic, smooth roads, mix of flat surfaces, straights, and sweeps
This route showcases South Carolina’s diverse landscape and provides a peaceful ride along the state’s border.
7. Edisto Beach Tour
- Location: South Carolina’s Lowcountry
- Distance: 17 miles
- Key features: Salt marshes, historic plantations, Edisto River views
- Difficulty: Easy
- Notable attractions: ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, Edisto Beach State Park, Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve
Experience the unique beauty of South Carolina’s Lowcountry on this scenic byway.
Best Motorcycle Rides in South Carolina
1.Tail of the Dragon (US 129)
- Location: Starts in South Carolina, mostly in North Carolina
- Distance: 11 miles
- Key features: 318 curves, challenging ride
- Difficulty: Challenging (for experienced riders)
- Notable attractions: Great Smoky Mountains National Park views
While primarily in North Carolina, the Tail of the Dragon is accessible from South Carolina and offers an exhilarating ride for skilled motorcyclists.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Before hitting the road in South Carolina, familiarize yourself with the state’s motorcycle laws. Key points include:
- Helmet requirement for riders under 21
- Eye protection required for all riders
- Daytime headlight use mandatory
- Lane splitting is not permitted
Best Times to Ride
South Carolina’s mild climate allows for year-round riding, but each season offers unique experiences:
- Spring: Comfortable temperatures and blooming flora
- Summer: Warm weather, perfect for coastal rides (be prepared for occasional thunderstorms)
- Fall: Ideal temperatures and stunning foliage, especially in the upstate region
- Winter: Mild in most areas, but watch for icy conditions in higher elevations
Conclusion
South Carolina offers a diverse range of motorcycle routes that cater to all skill levels and preferences. From the winding mountain roads of the upstate to the scenic coastal byways, there’s something for every rider. As you plan your South Carolina motorcycle adventure, consider extending your trip to neighboring states. Tennessee offers legendary routes like the Cherohala Skyway, while Florida provides unique coastal rides and year-round warm weather. Each state has its own charm and riding experiences, making the Southeast a prime destination for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
If you liked this article, then please subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more Bike Videos. You can also find us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer.
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.
Know More About Me.
