Jul/Aug '19

City Escape: Woodsfield, Ohio

Florian Neuhauser

2 min read

Southeastern Ohio is a motorcyclist’s dream playground. The topography offers countless turns, many of which are technically challenging. A bike with an appetite for lean angles and good suspension is best, but even on a big touring bike, these roads will not disappoint. The majority of the route follows Monroe County’s “Demon Triangle,” considered one of America’s most challenging motorcycle routes.

Length

Approximately 125 miles round-trip

Meet-up Spot

McDonald’s, 145 N Main St, Woodsfield, OH

Lunch Stop

Marv’s Place serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; they’re open every day. Save room for dessert. Find it at 37143 Muskingum St, Sardis, OH, (740) 483-9999.

Scenery (3 out of 5)

The rollings hills of Appalachia are a blast to ride through but don’t expect grand overlooks and vistas.

Difficulty (5 out of 5)

The Demon’s Triangle serves up challenging curves. Ride within your sight limit and always expect hidden roads and driveways.

Road conditions (3 out of 5)

This area has seen some rock sides in recent years. Call the tourism office and ask about any road closures.

Points of Interest

Ohio River Valley Museum
This museum in Clarington features exhibits relating to the history of the Ohio River. The W.P. Snyder Jr. steam-powered sternwheel towboat, a National Historic Landmark, is docked on the Muskingum River.

Hannibal Locks and Dam
Always fun to see, these locks and dam were built in the ’70s. There are picnic shelters, an observation tower, and restrooms.

Ohio River Ferryboat Festival
This year’s festival in Fly, OH, and Sistersville, WV, set for July 27-28, will be celebrating the 202nd year that a ferryboat service has operated at historic Tuel’s Landing in Fly. The ferryboat is one of only four that are still in service along the Ohio River. The festival is celebrated on both sides of the river and features ferry rides over and back. Tuel’s Landing is about 500 yards from a historical marker of a documented campsite of a group led by George Washington that was sent to explore, document, and survey the Northwest Territory in 1770.