Johnson City Roundtrip The Southern Dozen Ride 05 Music to your Ears
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RouteXpert René Plücken (MRA Master)
Last edit: 12-02-2021
Route Summary
Part 5 of the Southern Dozen, the ride is officially an 88 miles round-trip from Johnson City to Bristol. To make the ride more interesting we will ride via country roads back to Johnson City.
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Verdict
Duration
3h 57m
Mode of travel
Car or motorcycle
Distance
222.30 km
Countries
On our way to Kingsport
RouteXpert Review
The Southern Dozen are twelve rides based in Johnson City that travel all around the region. Each one is an adventure in itself that will take you through winding curves, breath taking natural scenery, historic landmarks, local points of interest, and fun attractions. Whether you feel like exploring caves, seeing wolves, touring historic sites, leaning into heart-pounding curves or just taking in the views, you’ll find a ride that’s exactly what you’re looking for.
This is part 5, called Music to Your Ears and takes us to the the roots of Country Music.
The ride is officially 88 miles round-trip from Johnson City to Bristol and mainly Highway. To make the ride more interesting we will ride via country roads back to Johnson City and visit some interesting sites.
Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia are famous for their music. Bristol as the home of the legendary Carter Family and the Birthplace of Country Music, this area laid the foundation for America’s modern music scene. See the Burger Bar, where Hank Williams was last seen alive, visit the auditorium that June Carter and Johnny Cash called home, and see where the first “country” recordings were made in 1927.
In Bristol you can visit
RP4 Bristol Motor speedway
RP7 Birthplace of Country Music Way
RP10 Have lunch at the Original Burger Bar located in downtown Bristol, a classic diner since 1942. Famously known as the last place Hank Williams, Sr. was seen alive. Serving only the freshest, juiciest burgers available.
The ride continues over scenic roads to the The Carter Family Memorial Music Center (RP14), a non-profit organization, serves fans and supporters of old-time country and folk music through the presentation of weekly performances at the Carter Family Fold. It also honors the memory of the first family of country music, the legendary Carter Family.
We continue our trip and will pass small villages like Weber City, Fort Blackmore and Clinchport before we reach Kingsport (RP17), where you'll have the opportunity to stop for a break in one of the many restaurants and bars.
Downtown Kingsport you can visit the The Mountain Music Museum (RP20), with exhibits from legends as Ernie Ford, Dr. Ralph Stanley, Flatt and Scruggs, Archie Campbell, The Carter Family and more, there’s no end to the musical treasures to be uncovered. The Mountain Music Museum is also home to the long running Pickin’ Porch Show.
Next door you can visit the Hook and Ladder Moonshine Distillery Shop. Founded by Drew Draper and his father Kenneth Draper, a decorated Senior Captain for Kingsport Fire Station One, they intended to honor firefighters all across the country. Exposed brick walls adorned with firefighting memorabilia honor those who have served, and consist well with the urban vibe of the downtown area.
Utilizing an old, thumper-style still, father and son are proudly producing a high proof moonshine with quality mash and a superior taste. Offering free samples to visitors, as well as a wide range of merchandise. Explore the flavors now and then come by for a taste of real Tennessee moonshine.
From Kingsport we continue our trip back to Johnson City, we will ride through the Warriors Path State Park.
I rate this route with 4 stars, because of the nice scenic roads and interesting sight seeing options along the route.
RP9 Bristol Birthplace of Country Music Way
RP13 Bridge across North Fork Holston River
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Disclaimer
Use of this GPS route is at your own expense and risk. The route has been carefully composed and checked by a MyRoute-app accredited RouteXpert for use on TomTom, Garmin and MyRoute-app Navigation.
Changes may nevertheless have occurred due to changed circumstances, road diversions or seasonal closures. We therefore recommend checking each route before use.
Preferably use the route track in your navigation system. More information about the use of MyRoute-app can be found on the website under 'Community' or 'Academy'.
Changes may nevertheless have occurred due to changed circumstances, road diversions or seasonal closures. We therefore recommend checking each route before use.
Preferably use the route track in your navigation system. More information about the use of MyRoute-app can be found on the website under 'Community' or 'Academy'.
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