Best Motorcycle Rides in South Carolina: Top 7 Twisty & Scenic Routes

• START/END: Walhalla to SC state line
• ROUTE: Hwy 28
• DISTANCE: 17 miles
• RIDE TIME: 30 mins
• BEST TIME: Year-round (smooth pavement)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Looking for the best twisty motorcycle ride in South Carolina? Highway 28 from Walhalla to the Russell Bridge (SC/GA line) is a pure adrenaline road. This 17-mile route delivers fast sweepers, tight technical corners, and perfect pavement through the Sumter National Forest foothills.

First, the road travels out of Walhalla with non-stop curves and quick elevation changes. Next, you’ll ride past hidden mountain parks and rural valleys before crossing the dramatic Chattooga River bridge. Consequently, riders rank SC-28 as one of the twistiest and most exciting motorcycle roads in the Upstate — all with almost zero traffic after the first few miles.

Because it’s just 45 minutes from Greenville and connects perfectly to Georgia’s Warwoman Road, it’s the ultimate quick hit or multi-state loop starter. Whether you want the best motorcycle rides near Clemson, fast sweepers in South Carolina, or a year-round thrill ride, Highway 28 never disappoints!

• START/END: Lake Hartwell State Park to Gaffney
• ROUTE: SC-11
• DISTANCE: 194 miles
• RIDE TIME: 4 hours
• BEST TIME: Fall (peak foliage)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best long-distance motorcycle ride in South Carolina? Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway (SC-11) is the crown jewel. This breathtaking 194-mile ribbon stretches from Sunset near Lake Hartwell all the way to Gaffney, hugging the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains with endless rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and waterfall pull-offs.

First, gentle sweepers and elevation changes keep the pace engaging without overwhelming. Next, iconic stops like Table Rock State Park, Caesars Head, and Sassafras Mountain (South Carolina’s highest point) offer panoramic views that make every mile memorable. Consequently, SC-11 stands out as the most scenic highway motorcycle route in South Carolina — perfect for full-day touring or multi-day Upstate adventures.

Because it’s truck-free and loaded with parks, it’s ideal for relaxed cruisers or adventure bikes. Whether you want the best motorcycle rides near Greenville/Spartanburg , or a spectacular fall color tour, Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway is a motorcycle rider’s dream come true!

• START/END: Cleveland to Caesars Head State Park
• ROUTE: US-276
• DISTANCE: 16 miles
• RIDE TIME: 30 mins
• BEST TIME: Summer/Fall (shade & peak foliage)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Looking for the best motorcycle ride in South Carolina with dramatic elevation and endless mountain views? The run to Caesars Head State Park via US-276 is unbeatable. Starting from Cleveland (just north of Greenville), this exhilarating 45-mile climb twists through the Blue Ridge Escarpment, delivering tight switchbacks, steep grades, and smooth pavement that reward every lean.

First, the road rockets upward with non-stop corners and breathtaking drop-offs. Next, you’ll reach the iconic Caesars Head overlook at over 3,200 feet — one of the highest points accessible by road in South Carolina, offering 100-mile vistas on clear days. Consequently, this route is a favorite for riders seeking the twistiest mountain roads near Greenville and Upstate SC.

Because it’s only 45 minutes from downtown Greenville, it’s perfect for a quick adrenaline fix or full-day loop with SC-11. Fall foliage here is spectacular, but spring wildflowers and summer breezes are just as addictive. The Caesars Head State Park motorcycle route is a true South Carolina bucket-list ride!
(photo: ctx1300forum.com)

• START/END: Clarks Hill to Anderson
• ROUTE: Hwy 28, SC-81
• DISTANCE: 84 miles
• RIDE TIME: 2 hours
• BEST TIME: Spring/Fall (mild temps)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best scenic motorcycle ride in South Carolina that’s peaceful and remote? The Savannah River Run on SC-28 & SC-81 is a rider favorite. This relaxing 84-mile route follows the beautiful Savannah River from Clarks Hill through Calhoun Falls to Anderson, winding through quiet Sumter National Forest with gentle wooded sweepers and almost no traffic.

First, enjoy flowing curves and river glimpses under a thick pine canopy. Next, pass historic small towns like McCormick while the road stays smooth and uncrowded. Consequently, the Savannah River Run ranks as one of the most scenic and underrated motorcycle routes in South Carolina — perfect for cruisers, touring bikes, or anyone craving a stress-free day ride.

Because it’s far from interstates yet easy from Augusta or Greenville, it’s an ideal escape. Whether you’re looking for the best motorcycle rides in South Carolina , curvy roads near Augusta, or a mild spring/fall adventure, this motorcycle road gem delivers pure riding beauty!

• START/END: Branchville to Charleston
• ROUTE: SC-61
• DISTANCE: 51 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Spring (azaleas blooming)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best scenic motorcycle ride in South Carolina with timeless Lowcountry charm? Route 61 (Ashley River Road) is one of the best roads to motorcycle in the state. This peaceful 51-mile stretch from Canadys south to Charleston cruises beneath a breathtaking canopy of ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss — one of the most iconic and photographed roads in the South.

First, the straight, shaded pavement invites relaxed cruising past historic plantations like Drayton Hall and Magnolia Plantation. Next, gentle sweeps and zero traffic make it perfect for nearly all skill level riders. Consequently, Route 61 ranks as one of the most scenic and historic motorcycle routes in South Carolina — ideal for history buffs and photographers.

Because it’s just minutes from Charleston, it’s an easy escape from the city. Whether you’re looking for the best motorcycle rides near Charleston, Lowcountry scenic roads, or a spring ride when azaleas bloom, Ashley River Road delivers unforgettable Old South beauty year-round!

• START/END: Anderson to NC border
• ROUTE: US-178
• DISTANCE: 43 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Fall (peak foliage)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best twisty motorcycle ride in South Carolina? US Route 178 from Pickens through the Blue Ridge foothills toward Brevard is an absolute gem. This thrilling 43-mile stretch delivers relentless switchbacks, steep elevation climbs, and smooth pavement that rivals the famous Tail of the Dragon — but with far less traffic.

First, the road explodes with tight hairpins and 5-mph corners as you ascend into the mountains. Next, stunning wooded vistas and hidden waterfalls (don’t miss the quick detour to Issaqueena Falls ) keep every mile breathtaking. Consequently, Route 178 consistently ranks as one of the twistiest and most challenging motorcycle roads in South Carolina — perfect for sportbike riders and adventure tourers.

Because it’s just minutes from Greenville and Clemson, it’s an easy escape from the Upstate. Whether you’re hunting the best motorcycle rides in South Carolina , curvy roads near Greenville, or epic fall foliage routes, US-178 belongs at the top of your list — especially when the leaves turn into brilliant crimson colors.

• START/END: Camden to Great Falls
• ROUTE: River Rd, Longtown Rd
• DISTANCE: 38 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Summer (lake breezes)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Searching for the best motorcycle rides in South Carolina with water views and fun curves? The Lake Wateree Loop is a hidden gem just northeast of Columbia. This relaxing yet engaging 38-mile route traces the serene shoreline of Lake Wateree, delivering constant twists on River Road through the shaded beauty of Lake Wateree State Park .

First, enjoy flowing sweepers and lakeside bends with almost no traffic. Next, connect to Longtown Road east toward historic Camden on US-601. For a longer adventure, loop north on Hwy 97 around the lake’s upper end — pavement is rougher, but the extended scenery makes it perfect for a full-day ride.

Consequently, this route ranks as one of the top lakeside motorcycle rides near Columbia and a peaceful escape from I-20. Summer breezes off the water keep you cool, while fall foliage adds magic. Ideal for all skill levels craving twisty South Carolina backroads!

GreatMotorcycleRoads.com is the place to find the best motorcycle roads and rides near South Carolina and the Southeast United States. Discover more great motorcycle roads in the Southeast with our detailed route descriptions and Google Maps links!