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Back of the Dragon (VA Route 16)

Tazewell, VA

50-mile Virginia classic with 438+ curves connecting Tazewell to Marion through Blue Ridge Mountains.

50Miles
1.5 hoursRide time
The Back of the Dragon on Virginia Route 16 connects Tazewell and Marion over 50 miles, delivering over 438 curves in just 32 miles of the most technical sections. The road features twisting curves, switchbacks and various elevation changes, all with very little traffic. The route winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains with scenic views and consistent technical challenges. The road continues 50 miles south to Troutdale, extending the available riding distance for those seeking longer loop combinations. This is one of Virginia's most famous motorcycle roads, known among regional riders for its combination of quantity and quality of curves.

The Route

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  1. Tazewell, VAStart
  2. Tazewell
  3. Marion
  4. Troutdale

The Ride

Over 438 curves in 32 miles; twisting curves, switchbacks and various elevation changes; very little traffic

Rider Stops Near This Route

Dealers, bars and campgrounds from our atlas near this route's home base — real distances, not ads.

Dealers

Clinch Mountain Motor Works

Tazewell, VA1.4 mi
Campgrounds

Camp Evangel

Pounding Mill, VA10 mi
Campgrounds

Jacob's Fork Creek Campground

Cucumber, WV12.9 mi
Campgrounds

Trailhead ATV Resort

Bluefield, VA13.6 mi
Campgrounds

Mountain Trail Off-Road Lodging

Welch, WV14.8 mi
Campgrounds

Camp Burson Campground - Hungry Mother State Park

Marion, VA16.7 mi
Bars & Saloons

Coaltown Taps

Richlands, VA17.1 mi
Campgrounds

Christian Acres Camp

Bluefield, WV17.2 mi
Campgrounds

Appalachian RV Resort

Bluefield, WV17.4 mi

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Claw of the Dragon - Outer Loop

237-mile outer loop through southwest Virginia Appalachians centered on Wytheville with multiple nested loops.

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virginia