Riding a motorcycle on the back roads of the 9 Lakes Region is a spring pastime. Each road, curve, and byway offers a visual tapestry of colors woven by budding trees, greening grass, roadside wildflowers, and the striking backdrop of mountains and lakes. As beautiful and pastoral as the landscape is, the thrill is in the ride. Motorcycle enthusiasts are well versed in several of the legendary rides to be found in the region. The Tail of the Dragon with its 318 turns in 11 miles attracts riders from across the world to test their skills. Equally well known is the 43 mile Cherohala Skyway with its wide sweeping turns and elevations ranging from 900 feet to 5400 feet. But not as well known, are the Devil’s Triangle and the East Tennessee Crossing National Byway.

The Devil’s Triangle is a 44 mile loop along TN 62, 116, and 330. The twists feature steep drop offs and rock cliffs, along with narrow pavement and loose gravel shoulders. The ride offers up a blend of rural scenery, mountain climbs, and colorful history. One of the newest stops is Brushy Mountain Prison, a historic landmark that is being developed into a tourist attraction. Currently, tours are only offered on a limited schedule and does attract off road events. Bloggers rate this ride as challenging and is not recommended for inexperienced or casual riders.

For the more casual rider, consider the East Tennessee Crossing Byway along Highway 25 beginning at the Cumberland Gap and finishing in Del Rio. Steeped in history, portions of the 73 mile route are Daniel Boone’s Wilderness Road traversed by pioneers seeking land in the rich valleys of Kentuckiana; the Cherokee Warriors Path, a game trail used by the Shawnee to the north and the Cherokee to the south; the Dixie Highway, a route linking the Midwest to the South; and Thunder Road of moonshining lore.

Or ride one of 5 other curated rides in the 9 Lakes region and tell us about your trip. Each of these rides offers suggestions of where to rest, take pictures, enjoy a meal, and discover history.  To learn more these trails. link here.