US 52 in VA

[tireatr]

Thinking of meeting some guys from Raleigh near Marion VA this weekend and run 16 up to Tazewell (refuse to call it "The back of the dragon"). After that I was going to head east on 61, then maybe drop down US 52. I've heard in the past this section of 52 is a good stretch of road, but have never been on it. What is the "good" section? North or Bland to Rocky Gap?

Thanks in advance

[Bob]

US52 is the old north-south hiway before I-77 was cut thru. If you take 61 east from Tazewell, be sure to bear off to the right onto 614 which hits 52 at the start of the best parts. Then take 52 south all the way to Wytheville. But don't miss 614--it is a real hoot and much better than 61! You can stop at the bluegrass joint at the top of Big Walker Mtn and listen to pickin and singin outdoors usually. Just look for the "tower".

A side trip you can take is to Burkes Garden. The road is one-way in and out (twisty), VA 623 which bears to the right off 61 before you take 614. Kind of a unique spot, feels like you leave the world behind, very quiet---and some Mennonites run the little store & deli you'll see on your right. Good cherry turnovers! And sandwiches.

[tireatr]

Thanks Bob, have been to Burkes Garden a few times. Didn't know about 614. Will run it though.

[Bob]

Thanks Bob, have been to Burkes Garden a few times. Didn't know about 614. Will run it though.

You'll love 614--continuous S turns for a ways.