Motorcycle Journeys Through the Appalachians

Amish farmers, bluegrass music, Elvis memorabilia, reminders of the War Between The States--the roots of America grow deep in the Appalachians. With Motorcycle Journeys Through the Appalachians by Dale Coyner, you can explore the scenic mountain vistas and bucolic valleys of a part of the country that's historically rich, culturally diverse, and laced with enticing roads.

This book lays out 35 day-long routes through Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the Carolinas, all the while offering local lore, useful advice, and easy-to-follow directions from an author who can trace his Appalachian roots back several generations. Coyner's affection for his native region is obvious in every chapter: his lyrical descriptions of the best roads lead to lovingly detailed depictions of ancient caverns, covered bridges, rolling farm country, Civil War battlefields, and presidents' homes.

Whether you're looking for living history or simply trying to find a glass-smooth, perfectly banked road, Coyner will point the way. You'll visit the cottage of Confederate spy Belle Boyd; get lost on scenic Virginia Route 231; pay homage to the Harley-Davidson Motor Company at its factory in York, Pennsylvania; loop through the mountain passes of the Blue Ridge Parkway; and find out why you shouldn't take anything about West Virginia for granted. You'll also chuckle at Coyner's descriptions of good ol' boys and marvel at his nuggets of historical lore.

Detailed maps make navigation a breeze, while an appendix of local motorcycle dealers is insurance against a breakdown. Along the way, Coyner also points out the region's most rider-friendly restaurants, hotels, and campgrounds, ranging from bare-bones accommodations to spoil-yourself luxury.