See Unforgettable Fall Foliage on the Triple Nickel
Many great motorcycling routes let you admire the annual changing of the leaves from the saddle. To find one of the most stunning fall rides in the eastern U.S., and perhaps the whole country, you should head to Zanesville, OH—the starting point of the Triple Nickel.
The Triple Nickel, officially designated SR 555, is a roughly 65-mile, winding road that meanders and curves its way through Ohio’s Appalachian Foothills. And there definitely are curves a-plenty waiting for you.
This road is also nicknamed Ohio’s Tail of the Dragon, so it’s quite technical. In fact, it’s one of the most challenging ones in Ohio, and probably the surrounding states as well.
Don’t be discouraged from riding it, though—the Triple Nickel consistently ranks toward the top of the most popular motorcycling routes nationwide. That’s partially due to the extremely fun twists and elevation changes, but also the gorgeous scenery.
The route skirts peaceful farmland, the Wayne National Forest, the Burr Oak State Park, and other woods and fields that are beautiful in spring and summer. But once fall arrives, the entire region transforms into a blazing autumn wonderland.
Navigating the curves and admiring the orange, red, and yellow leaves is a great experience, but things only get better with everything you find along the ride. The Triple Nickel stretches through forests and parks offering plentiful fall activities, small towns with charming local eateries, and fascinating roadside curiosities.
The entirety of SR 555 is paved, so any kind of motorcycle should be able to complete the route without issues. However, if you want to do some detours to certain attractions, take to the road on a gravel-capable machine.
Once the day’s ride is over, Zanesville provides an excellent place to rest, relax, and recharge with its hotels, restaurants, and bars. If you rode the Triple Nickel south from Zanesville, though, don’t worry—once SR 555 ends, simply follow the Ohio River to Marietta, turn left to SR 676, and zigzag back north.
There are also many other top-notch roads in the area to continue your autumnal excursion afterward. Yet, the combination of curves, scenery, and fall leaves make the Triple Nickel an unmatched fall ride.
Points of Interest
Wayne National Forest
The Wayne National Forest covers some 240,000 acres of the Appalachian foothills south of Zanesville. Split into three different units, both the Athens and Marietta units are easily accessible by the Triple Nickel.
The forest’s hiking trails let you take a real close look at the fall leaves and stretch your legs while you’re at it. There are paths that suit everybody, from paved half-mile paths to challenging trails dozens of miles long.
You can ride along the trails as well, either on a horse or a dirt-capable motorcycle. The Wayne National Forest also has several camping grounds.
Zanesville Y-Bridge
This three-span bridge in Zanesville is one unique work of architecture. The first (and since demolished) Y-Bridge was built in the city in 1814, while the current concrete bridge dates to 1902.
The Y-Bridge is one of the few in the country where you can cross it and still end up on the same side of the river. Needless to say, the locals get a good chuckle out of visitors’ confused looks when they tell them to “hang a right in the middle of the bridge.”
You should ride over the bridge, but there’s also a scenic overlook spot along the Muskingum river if you want to snap a photo of the bridge framed by fall foliage. The unusual shape of the bridge is so distinctive that Amelia Earhart named Zanesville “the most recognizable city in America” since Y-Bridge makes for such an excellent landmark.
Covered Bridges
If you’re one of the many motorcyclists who enjoy seeing old covered bridges, you’re in luck. In addition to the Y-Bridge, the Triple Nickel passes by multiple preserved covered bridges.
The bunch includes the Henry, Shinn, Barkhurst Mill, Adams/San Toy, and Root covered bridges, among others. Some of them you can ride over, while others are pedestrian-only or closed to traffic altogether.
Note that you need to make small detours on gravel and dirt roads to reach the bridges. Riders wanting to see them should make sure to come geared with a suitable bike.
Catfish Paradise
Later fall months, October in particular, induces a feeding frenzy in catfish as they try to bulk up for winter. As such, it’s a great time to catch a prize-winning catfish.
Catfish Paradise is a pay-lake located a short distance from the southern end of the Triple Nickel. The location has a bait and tackle shop, so all you need to bring is your own rod.
For the more competitive, Catfish Paradise even organizes a daily fishing contest and regular tournaments.
Facts & Information
Recommended Lodging: Holiday Inn Express North, Zanesville, OH
The Holiday Inn in Zanesville is an excellent home base for an autumn adventure around the city. The rooms are well-sized, the parking lot big, and the hotel prepares you for the ride with an excellent hot breakfast.
Located in downtown Zanesville, multiple restaurants are within walking distance. You also have easy access to all the surrounding riding roads.
Recommended Lodging: TownePlace Suites, Parkersburg, WV
If you choose to lay your head down at the southern end of the Triple Nickel, the TownePlace Suites in Parkersburg is a comfortable option with spacious rooms. Start the morning with a complimentary hot breakfast and refresh after the ride with a dip in the indoor pool or by lifting weights at the gym.
With its downtown Parkersburg location, good dinner options are quite literally a minute away. If you’d like to explore the city, though, TownePlace Suites offers bicycles for rent.
Food & Dining
- Triple Nickel Diner: No ride along the Triple Nickel is complete without a meal at the Triple Nickel Diner. At roughly the mid+point of the trip, you simply must grab lunch at this legendary eatery. Find it at 1060 High St, Chesterville, OH.
- Triple Nickel Saloon: You know the place has to be good when they have a sign out saying, “Look out for motorcycles.” This small restaurant and bar is a must-stop on the Triple Nickel. Find it at 2590 Old River Rd, Zanesville, OH.
- Weasel Boy Brewing Company: Weasel Boy Brewing Company is a top spot for a post-ride beverage and artisanal pizza. Enjoy local craft brews with nice riverside views. Find it at 126 Muskingum Ave, Zanesville, OH.