BackoftheDragon16.com

Back of the Dragon – Virginia’s Premier Motorcycle Ride

BackoftheDragon16.com invites riders, driving enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers to conquer one of the most legendary and scenic roads in the Eastern United States. Spanning 32 adrenaline-fueled miles along Virginia’s Route 16, this celebrated stretch boasts over 300 exhilarating curves — a masterful blend of switchbacks, slaloms, hairpins, and sweeping mountain turns that cut deep through the heart of the Southern Appalachians.

Your journey begins near Hungry Mother State Park, just north of Marion, Virginia, a serene and picturesque launch point that quickly gives way to the wild, untamed beauty of the Blue Ridge highlands. From there, the road winds across the Big Walker, Brushy, and Clinch Mountains, each range offering its own personality — from tight, technical ascents to panoramic ridgelines with views that stretch for miles.

This is not your average Sunday drive. The narrow, twisting tarmac demands focus and rewards skill, offering the thrill of rapid climbs, the satisfaction of nailing a perfect apex through a blind curve, and the rush of acceleration out of sweeping bends. All the while, the crisp mountain air cools your engine — and your spirit — as you carve your way through forests, valleys, and high-altitude passes.

But the Back of the Dragon isn’t just about the ride — it’s an experience. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming Appalachian towns, roadside pull-offs perfect for photos, and local eateries that welcome weary riders with Southern hospitality. At the ride’s finale in Tazewell, Virginia, you’ll find a vibrant hub of motorcycle culture, with shops, events, and fellow riders sharing stories of their time on the Dragon.

Whether you’re a seasoned motorcyclist chasing the perfect curve, a car enthusiast seeking the ultimate road challenge, or simply an adventurer looking for a breathtaking journey through the mountains, the Back of the Dragon delivers a road unlike any other. It’s not just pavement — it’s a test of skill, a celebration of freedom, and a ride you’ll never forget.

When the last turn fades behind you, and the engine cools, you’ll know why thousands make the pilgrimage here every year: The Back of the Dragon isn’t just a ride… it’s a legend.

300+ Curves

32 Miles

Marion to Tazewell, VA