US hwy 421 The Snake
About
US Hwy 421 aka The Snake is an unforgettable experience for any motorcycle rider or car enthusiast. Beginning in Bristol, TN The Snake is a 37 mile loop beginning and ending on US Hwy 421. It features 489 curves, 3 mountains, and 1 valley as it runs through Tennessee and Virginia. On the way you'll see some beautiful spots including South Holston Lake, Cherokee National Forest, Shady Valley, TN, and Backbone Rock just before exiting Shady Valley to enter into Damascus, VA. There are spots to stop and rest all along the road, and most will come with amazing views as well. The ride starts coming to an end as you start heading back towards Mountain City, TN, but the views do not. You are guaranteed to enjoy every second on this beautiful route, and will be ready to come back every chance you get.
Stops Along the way
The Store: A great place to fuel up and hangout before beginning your journey on US Hwy 421 The Snake.
421 Boat Ramp: Although its at the very beginning its an amazing place to take in the scenery South Holston Lake has to offer.
Jacks Corner: Well known corner where youll find the frequent riders of The Snake hanging out as well as Sneaky Pandas spot to catch some amazing pictures,
Shady Valley Country Store: This is a great place to stop in for some refreshments, views, and to refuel before continuing on the route.
Backbone Rock: This rock formation is one you have to make a little climb up some stairs to really appreciate. It is also known as the worlds shortest tunnel.
Two choices for a ride
There are technically two rides know as The Snake. Directions and a map for both are available at the bottom of this page. One being much shorter from Bristol, TN to The Country Store in Shady Valley, and the other being a loop back to where you began. To make the shorter ride follow the directions from mile 0 through mile 9.8.
Keeping the Mountain safe
We would also like to take the time to thank the departments that help keep this smaller stretch safe for everyone. 421 Volunteer Fire Department, Shady Valley Volunteer Fire Department, Sullivan County EMS, Sullivan County Sheriffs Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol, US Forestry and Tennessee Department of Transportation all play a huge role in keeping the road and mountain safe for everyone to enjoy. Also please consider making a donation no matter how small to the volunteer departments above. Both are fully staffed by volunteers that are continuously training and working to better help anyone in need on the mountain.
Directions
Mile 0 = Start at the intersection of Old Cold Springs Road and US Hwy 421.
Mile 9.8 = Turn right on TN 133 at the Shady Valley Store. (B on the map)
Mile 19.7 = You are at the famous Backbone Rock.
Mile 21.2 = You are at the Virginia State Line.
Mile 23.1 = You are at the intersection of US Hwy 58 in Damascus. Turn right to go through town. (C on the map)
Mile 24.4 = Turn right onto TN 91.
Mile 25.9 = You are at the Tennessee State Line.
Mile 32.8 = Turn right on Cold Springs Road (D on the map)
Mile 33.4 = Bear left to stay on Cold Springs Road.
Mile 37.3 = You come to an end at the intersection of Cold Springs Road and US Hwy 421, which not far from where you began the ride on Old Cold Springs Road and US Hwy 421.
