Welcome to 32 miles of the most exciting and technical road you will ever ride – The Back of the Dragon. You'll find unmatched beauty and riding enjoyment on Virginia's  Route 16, the two-lane ribbon over the three mountain range between Marion and Tazewell, Virginia. Take this ride and earn your place amongst the "Dragon Masters" and those who aspire to be. For more information about The Back of the Dragon, visit the official Dragon Website.

What began as a passion for motorcycle riding and a love for an amazing stretch of highway has turned an idea into a trail, a business and an event! In October, 2010, a recently retired Army Master Sargent, enthusiastically marched into the Tazewell County Office of Economic Development and Tourism with an idea that he had been considering... He was carrying a large rendering of a medieval dragon in one hand and a motorcycle helmet in the other. "Route 16 is a natural for motorcycles and sports cars," he exclaimed. "With elevations of 3,500 feet, there are 32 miles of 438 winding curves, some of which are 15 mile-per-hour curves; and once you get to the top, the views are amazing!" And that, my friends, is how the Back of the Dragon was born.  

The entirety of Back of the Dragon runs along Route 16 from Marion, Virginia to Tazewell, Virginia.

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LODGING