Hi Shane, nice write up. I have found routes from crossing the border at alexandria that take me all the way down to the bottom of WV and further where I dont touch a interstate once. I have tried many different routes to get through NY and PA that are fun little backroads , and I am always finding more,of course.
You have ridden the roads of south Ohio,right? Where it butts up against WV? Those are twisty technical blind crest roads that will give you a thrill. Not the elevation changes of the higher mountains but thrilling nonetheless .
There is one corner that catches EVERYBODY out down there, without fail,it's like you are catapulted forward with a blindfold on. Sadly, it's been a while and I can't remember where it is now but I won't forget that oh **** feeling and the exhilaration of not killing myself.
I plan my route using old school paper maps and if you just pay attention to road signs you can always find your way around,even through the little towns. Once I cross the border,everything gets turned off ,no phones, Google maps or GPS.
You want some inside info on local terrain and routes? Pull over and unfold a map....folks just can't help themselves and must stop to give some input. And sometimes you get a free lunch or place to stay as well!
The map thing works well in campgrounds too.
I'm struggling with where to go in a couple weeks...down south or back to Newfoundland? Brought a stack of maps with me to work to play with. Haven't been south since 2019/covid so..
It's funny how many great roads I have found that don't look like much on a map. It's so much fun to find that hidden gem . I don't save any of my roads or download them or whatever it is you do.
I dont even own a computer!
I have BOXES and BOXES of maps ,most you won't find anymore,that are printed maps just for motorcycle roads down south. Been collecting them for a looooong time.
Ok, back to ....work....and studying my maps.