4 Scenic Motorcycle Routes to Ride This Fall in Southern West Virginia

With steep hills, deep valleys and rolling farmland, Southern West Virginia delivers the full package. Add in miles of sweeping views and plenty of adventure, and you’ve got the perfect ride. As fall paints the mountains in color and cool air sweeps through the ridges, there’s no better season to cruise the open road. Here are four scenic motorcycle routes to ride this fall in Southern West Virginia. You can also order your copy of Southern West Virginia’s Ride Guide to help plan your next road trip!  

1. National Forest Ride

Routes 19, 39, 219 & 60

Travel 196 miles through some of Southern West Virginia’s most stunning landscapes. The route begins at 1,800 feet and climbs to 4,545 feet as it winds through the dense Appalachian Mountains before descending into rolling countryside. As you go, stop at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park or visit the Canyon Rim Visitors Center to learn more about the area. Before leaving the Visitors Center, take a short walk to an overlook for the best view of the New River Gorge Bridge — the longest steel arch span in the Western Hemisphere and the third highest bridge in the United States. Finish your ride by driving across the bridge!

2. Marmet to Grandview

Routes 94 & 3

Trace Southern West Virginia’s coal heritage on this nearly 85-mile route. Honor the region’s miners at the Upper Big Branch Miners Memorial, then take an underground tour at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Ride along colorful country roads and through welcoming communities on your way to Little Beaver State Park. The journey ends at Grandview, the highest point in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. From the main overlook, take in a sweeping view of the New River’s horseshoe bend, framed by vibrant fall foliage from 1,400 feet above.

3. Pence Springs to Moncove Lake

Routes 3 & 219

Take in classic country scenery on this 43-mile route of rolling hills and winding roads. Along the way, pass historic churches, covered bridges and old cemeteries that share the story of the region’s past. Stop in towns like Alderson, Union and Gap Mills, each offering local history and unique businesses worth exploring. With nearby access to the Allegheny Trail and Moncove Lake State Park, this ride pairs perfectly with a short hike.

4. Coal Heritage Ride South

Explore the southern coalfields on this 130-mile loop that winds through the once-thriving towns of Mullens, Pineville and Welch. During your ride, visit three state parks — Camp Creek State Park and Forest, Pinnacle Rock State Park and Twin Falls Resort State Park — where you can hike leaf-covered trails or relax beside waterfalls. For a step back in time, explore Bramwell, known as “The Town of Millionaires,” where coal barons built their lavish mansions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Ride Into Fall

Discover more scenic routes in the Southern West Virginia Motorcycle Ride Guide. Each section includes a geotagged QR code with Google Map directions, area highlights and insider tips. The guide also features a directory of information centers with fuel, food, restrooms and more.

Hit the open road this fall and take in the beauty of Southern West Virginia’s highways and byways. Request your copy of the 2025 Motorcycle Ride Guide today!