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Best Motorcycle Rides Near Columbia, SC

Looking for the best motorcycle rides near Columbia, SC? Columbia sits right in the heart of South Carolina, which means riders have quick access to lakeside loops, pine-forest backroads, and quiet countryside highways. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful shoreline cruise or a relaxing rural ride, the Columbia region offers some of the most enjoyable motorcycle roads in the Midlands.

Each Columbia motorcycle route includes:

• Free interactive Google Maps links for every route
• Detailed ride info (distance, time, best season)
• GPX files downloadable for our Patreon Premium members (perfect for Garmin or GPS navigation)

Below are the best motorcycle rides in Columbia for scenery, smooth pavement, and relaxed curves.

Tips for Motorcycle Riding Near Columbia

• Watch for deer, especially near lakes and forested areas.
• Fuel up before rural areas—gas stations can be widely spaced.
• Ride earlier in the day during summer to avoid heat and humidity.
• Check weather changes, as pop-up storms are common in warm months.
• Expect light gravel on certain backroad shoulders after rainfall.
  
  

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1. Lake Wateree Ride

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

For a quieter and more rural lakeside experience, the Lake Wateree ride along River Road and Longtown Road is one of the best motorcycle rides in Columbus, SC. These two-lane roads follow the eastern side of the lake, weaving through tall pines, marshy coves, and small waterfront communities. The curves are smooth and steady, making the ride enjoyable for all skill levels.

Because this area is less developed than Lake Murray, riders experience a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere with almost no traffic. River Road runs closest to the water, offering several scenic glimpses of Lake Wateree, while Longtown Road adds rolling hills and open stretches perfect for cruising. As the route winds deeper into the countryside, riders enjoy a true escape from city noise.

Click for the Google maps motorcycle route link.

2. Lake Murray Loop

• START/END: Lexington loop through Prosperity
• ROUTES: US-378, State Rte 391, US-76
• DISTANCE: 59 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Spring & Fall
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

The Lake Murray Loop is one of the most scenic motorcycle rides near Columbia, offering miles of peaceful shoreline views and rolling countryside. Starting from the Lexington side, riders follow quiet two-lane roads that gently twist around coves, marinas, and waterfront neighborhoods. As the route continues northwest, the scenery shifts to open farmland, shaded pine stands, and long sweeping curves ideal for cruising.

Because Lake Murray is large, the motorcycle ride feels varied and immersive without becoming technical. Riders can stop at several lakeside parks or photo pull-offs, especially near the dam. While traffic increases on summer weekends, mornings remain calm and perfect for a scenic cruise around the Midlands’ most popular lake.

Click for the Google maps motorcycle route link.

Looking for more South Carolina motorcycle routes? Visit our SC page for the full list of the Top 7 Best Motorcycle Rides in South Carolina !

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