Riding the sweepers on Northern Virginia’s historic Snickersville Turnpike

February 25, 6:55 PMDC Motorcycle Travel ExaminerMark Poesch

Previous Next

2 comments Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the DC Motorcycle Travel Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

Snickersville Turnpike is an historic road that traces its origins all the way back to pre-Civil War era.  35 MPH most of the way, running roughly parallel to 55 MPH Rt. 28, it’s primarily useful to locals, and tourists looking for countryside scenery or historic sites along the Turnpike.  Sixteen miles of twists and turns make the drive somewhat arduous for the commuter, so the road is lightly trafficked.

Twisties, did he say!?  MotorcycleRoads.US describes the turns as "sweepers" and I suppose it is fair to say that the road isn’t nearly as twisty as the route to the middle Skyline Drive entrance.  But, at a reasonable speed, these "sweepers" are quick -- it’s a good idea to break below the speed limit to be sure you’re ready for whatever’s around the bend.

That is, unless you’re riding with a group (with good spacing) and are able to use the rider ahead to gauge exactly what’s coming up.

This is precisely what I was able to do a few weekends ago.  The experience was a blast!  Not only was I able to ride with a large group for the first time, but I was also riding with the whole array of the latest sportbikes.  Good times!

If you’re in the Northern Virginia area, this route is easily accessible from Rt. 7. and Rt. 50, and offers a good less-than-half-day outing.  Just watch your speed, and take it easy on the locals!

Alone, this one ranks a 4/5, but with a group it's an easy 5/5.  Ride safe!