There is a unique kind of beauty in the rolling foothills of Appalachia that often goes unnoticed by the rest of the world, but for a rider, these roads are sacred. When my husband and I moved to a rural community in Southeast Ohio, I was faced with a bit of a dilemma. After sixteen years on two wheels—split between traditional cruisers and rugged adventure bikes—I found myself paralyzed by the very thing I moved here for: the hills. Raising triplet boys largely on my own while working full-time and grinding through six years of college taught me how to handle a crisis, but it didn’t prepare me for the anxiety of navigating a heavy bike through aggressive switchbacks daily. It was a "mid-ride crisis" that was only solved when I traded two wheels for three. Now, on my 21 Can-Am Spyder RT, my knees are back in the wind, and I’m finally able to be present in the moment again. My husband, who has over 40 years in the saddle, still leads the way on his Yamaha Venture, Suzuki Versys, or Kawasaki Concours, and together we explore the "Windy 9"—a collection of routes that offer some of the most technical and breathtaking landscapes in the Midwest.

Mastering the Triple Nickel and the Rim of the World

The Windy 9 is centered around Athens, Ohio, serving as a hub for nine distinct routes that fan out like the spokes of a very twisty wheel. These aren't your typical flat Midwestern farm roads. These routes were carved by ancient glaciers and coal-mining history, resulting in pavement that follows the erratic contours of the land. Whether you’re leaning into a sweeper or enjoying the stability of a trike, these roads demand respect and a sharp eye lead.

The Triple Nickel (State Route 555)

You cannot talk about Ohio riding without starting at the Triple Nickel. This is the heavyweight champion of Ohio’s hilly roads. Running from Zanesville down to the Ohio River, State Route 555 is a relentless series of blind crests and off-camber turns. It’s a technical workout that compares to the Tail of the Dragon but with a much lonelier, rural vibe. For a rider on a nimble machine, it's a playground of transitions. For those on three wheels, it’s a masterclass in steering precision without the low-speed anxiety of an uphill hairpin. It’s 62 miles of pure Appalachian grit that will test your suspension and your stamina.

The Rim of the World (State Route 78)

If you prefer your curves with a side of spectacular vistas, State Route 78, known as the Rim of the World, is your go-to. This route takes you from Glouster toward McConnelsville and through the heart of Burr Oak State Park. The road hugs the ridgelines, offering expansive views that make you feel like you're riding on the edge of the sky. The elevation changes are frequent and dramatic. It’s the perfect route for a day-tripper who wants to stop at a scenic overlook, take a breath, and truly appreciate the gifts this amazing world provides us.

Hidden Valleys and Forest Runs

While the main numbers on the Windy 9 get the most glory, some of the best riding happens when you dip into the shadows of the Wayne National Forest. These roads are cooler in the summer and offer a more intimate connection with the landscape.

The Hocking Hills Loop

Weaving through the Hocking Hills State Park area via State Route 664 and State Route 374 is a must. You’ll ride past massive sandstone cliffs and deep hemlock-shaded gorges. On a large touring machine, these sweeping forest roads feel majestic. The roads can be damp in the shadows, so your traction and tire health are paramount. It’s a sensory experience—the smell of the pine trees and the damp earth is better than any high-end candle. It’s where I go when I need to remind myself why I worked so hard for so many years; the peace here is earned.

The Miner’s Memorial Run

This route takes you through the history of the region. You’ll pass The Big Muskie’s Bucket at Jesse Owens State Park. The roads are a mix of sweeping curves and sudden dips that follow the old coal-hauling paths. It’s a bit more relaxed than the Triple Nickel but keeps you on your toes with the occasional patch of gravel or farm machinery. It’s a straightforward ride that connects you to the hardworking, blue-collar roots of Ohio.

Fuel for the Ride: Local Eats and Stays

No ride is complete without a destination for a good meal. In Southeast Ohio, we don't do fancy chain restaurants; we do local flavor that sticks to your ribs.

Best Local Eateries

After a morning of conquering the curves, head into Athens and grab a table at Jackie O's Public House. The food is locally sourced and exactly what you need after burning mental calories on the road. If you find yourself in the Hocking Hills area, the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan offers a buffet that can satisfy even a rider with a triplet-sized appetite. For a perfect mid-ride lunch with a view, The Boathouse BBQ in Marietta sits right on the Ohio River and offers a great atmosphere for groups and solo riders alike.

Rider-Friendly Lodging

Athens serves as the perfect base camp. The Ohio University Inn and Conference Center is a popular choice for riders because it offers ample parking and easy access to the start of several Windy 9 routes. If you prefer a more rustic stay, the cabins at Burr Oak State Park are excellent. They allow you to park your bike right outside your door and enjoy a quiet evening in the woods. If you are looking for something with historic charm that specifically caters to the touring community, The Inns at 8th and Main in McConnelsville is an incredible boutique option. They provide dedicated motorcycle parking and are perfectly positioned near the Triple Nickel and State Route 78, making it easy to roll out of bed and right onto the curves.

Safety and Technical Prep for the Hills

The "Windy 9" isn't a place for the unprepared. The elevation changes mean your braking system needs to be in top shape. Whether you're managing the weight of a heavy tourer or the footprint of a trike, these roads can surprise you with mid-corner bumps or decreasing radius turns.

Gear and Visibility

Because these roads are often shaded by heavy forest canopies, lighting is crucial. I’m a big advocate for LED lighting upgrades to ensure you aren't invisible to tractors pulling out of blind farm lanes. At Street Iron Gear, we focus on gear that keeps you seen and safe. A clean visor and a good pair of gloves are your best friends here. You want to be comfortable enough to stay "in the moment" rather than fussing with a helmet that’s too tight or a jacket that’s flapping in the wind.

Road Conditions and Hazards

Be aware that Southeast Ohio is "Deer Country." Dawn and dusk are the most dangerous times to ride here. Also, keep an eye out for "tar snakes" and gravel in the corners, especially after a heavy rain. These hills shed debris onto the road, so your "eye lead" needs to be far ahead of your front tire. Southeast Ohio riding is about the journey, not the destination. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the rhythm of the hills and find the clarity that only two (or three) wheels can provide. Whether you are following a Yamaha Venture, managing a Suzuki Versys, or carving through on a Kawasaki Concours or a Spyder RT, the Windy 9 is waiting to show you the heart of Appalachia.