Guest Blog - Rockfish Gap - Virginia by Kiara Wilson

The Blue Ridge Mountains are most certainly the most notable mountain ranges in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states of the U.S. Through the past centuries, settlers have used winding paths in order to traverse these scenic mountains by foot, wagon and now by car. While the Blue Ridge Parkway acts as a main highway system to take travelers from North Carolina through Virginia, one particular stretch of the 469-mile route acts a motorcyclist's paradise. Rockfish Gap lies between Charlottesville and Waynesboro, and although most of the businesses along this stretch of highway are now closed, Rockfish Gap remains a top destination for the country's most weathered motorcycle riders.

With an elevation of just 1,900 feet above sea level, Rockfish Gap is one of the lowest areas between the Manassas Gap and the James River. Like many other notable stretches of mountain highway to the area, Rockfish Gap offers riders fast, curving roads that will push the very limits of man versus machine. It's not a highway for the faint of heart, and one wrong move may send riders, well, let's just say that you shouldn't make any wrong moves. It's a quite dangerous stretch of road, but that doesn't mean that Rockfish Gap doesn't provide some of the best views and adventures the area has to offer. Because of its proximity to the mountains and nearby river basins, Rockfish Gap has been known to become rather foggy throughout the day. Riders should be cautious of not only the roads themselves, but other motorists trying to navigate the low-visibility region.

Nearby motels have suffered from economic depressions and arson in more recent years. Overnight accommodations to Rockfish Gap are very sparse, but that shouldn't deter you from visiting the stretch of highway on your motorcycle at least once in your lifetime. Despite the area's misfortune with lodging, Rockfish Gap remains a top destination for Blue Ridge Parkway travelers by bike. Because it's surrounded by so many communities and of course, the Appalachian Trail, it shouldn't be too difficult to provide overnight accommodations, should you want to stay near Rockfish Gap? Remember whenever you want to go on a motorcycle trip on this route always use proper motorcycle gear from a trustworthy store. You should use proper luggage in order to carry enough belongings with you on the trip. Viking Bags would be the best choice for any biker.

The Icon Patrol or similar all-weather jacket makes for a wise attire choice for traveling the Rockfish Gap. Its elevation is not so high that riding becomes too cold or uncomfortable, but the moisture in the air can sometimes create disastrous conditions on any bike. Rainfall is not uncommon throughout the year, so expect to get wet no matter what time of day or year you're planning on riding Rockfish Gap.

Rockfish Gap is one of those day-rides that you simply cannot miss, especially if you have a long-planned Blue Ridge Parkway trip on your itinerary. The area offers unique adventure opportunities outside of thrill-seeking motorcycle rides, from hang-gliding and backpacking to mountain biking and rock climbing. Rockfish Gap is a premier destination for travelers to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It can be easily overlooked, but don't let it fly under your radar. Make sure you share the road, because bicyclists and RVs frequent the area, too!

VikingCycle Cruise Motorcycle Jacket for Women

Arizona summers are notoriously hot. The winters are absolutely beautiful. But did you know that the dry desert air makes for a really chilly night in the winter months? A good leather jacket is the key to staying warm. A zip-out liner that is EASY to zip-out, and extra room for wearing layers are important. I've had many leather jackets. I usually end up fighting with the zippers, or the liner. Then there is the issue of fitting your layers under it. I have finally found the perfect leather jacket for my riding adventures this winter!


Quality leather, strong zippers, beautiful braided accents, and slightly fitted. These are the words I would use to describe the VikingCycle Cruise Motorcycle Jacket for Women. Aside from that, the zip out liner is incredible. Very easy to zip in and out, unlike some other jackets I've had that can be very difficult to remove and replace the liner.

I highly recommend this jacket. It runs true to size, leaves plenty of room to wear your layers underneath, it is comfortable, and ships very quickly. Added bonus: it features deep inside pockets on both sides. Very handy for carrying all my stuff!

So if you'd like to get yourself one of these great jackets, I suggest heading over to http://www.motorcyclehouse.com/vikingcycle-cruise-braided-black-leather-motorcycle-jacket-for-women.htm and pick one up.

Take a Good Look Around You

I recently took a good look around me. Have you ever done that? I mean taken a really good, long look at your life, what you've accomplished, what dreams you have achieved? Sometimes we get so caught up in the day-to-day noise of our lives, that we don't stop and look around. It's good to look back and see how far you've come. It makes the journey worthwhile. I don't always see the progress I've made until I stop and take a breath.

I realized that I have a wonderful husband of almost 16 years, a beautiful family of 4 children and 5 grandchildren. I have obtained my bachelor's degree. I have the best friends a girl could ask for. I have a great job, my health, etc, etc.

I also have something that some may not understand. Others may take it for granted. If my mother were still alive she would roll her eyes and sigh loudly. I have my Harley, Victoria. She gives me freedom that I never had before I learned to ride. She gives me the open road and a license to go where I wish, when I wish, with whom I wish. She gives me the power to draw my own map.

I recently went on a day trip with my best friend, Toni. We took our bikes up to Woods Canyon Lake. We like to ride up there and hang our hammocks and enjoy the cool forest of northern Arizona. We don't do it often enough for either of our liking, but when we do, it's incredible. Riding up the twisty roads, tearing out of the heat of the desert headed for the cool pines up north without a care in the world. It's a great feeling. If we were in a car, it just would not be the same. Those who don't ride, just don't understand that.

Toni is moving out of state in a few weeks, and I'm heartbroken to have her move so far away. She is the closest thing to a sister that I have out here, with my family so far away. But with her moving away, I've had to stop and take a look around me. Yes, I'm heartbroken, and yes, I'll miss her dearly. But I looked back and remembered all the good times we've had together. We have laughed, cried, spat sarcastic comments at people, ridden our bikes all over the state together, and fallen down drunk at her birthday party, too. Literally. You cannot buy memories like that. I'll have those memories forever, and for that I'm truly thankful. What a long way we've come.

I'll miss you Sister, but I'll see you next year in Daytona. :)