If the rumble of the engine and the wind at your back is calling, then these top five scenic motorcycle road trips in the USA are a must for your riding bucket list. From winding mountain roads to coastal highways, the diverse landscapes of America offer an unparalleled adventure for every motorcycle enthusiast. Gear up and let’s explore these breathtaking routes that promise exhilarating rides and stunning vistas.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
Arguably one of the most iconic road trips in the United States, the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, offers an unparallelled coastal riding experience. Stretching from the vibrant city of San Francisco to sun-soaked Los Angeles, this route boasts cliff-hugging curves, majestic ocean views, and charming coastal towns.
- Starting Point: San Francisco, CA
- Ending Point: Los Angeles, CA
- Highlights: Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, Hearst Castle
Best ridden during the late spring or early fall, this route provides riders with the perfect blend of scenic beauty and adventure.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia
Known as America’s favorite drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway extends over 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, offering a serene and scenic journey through nature. This route is a haven for riders seeking solace amid rolling mountain meadows and panoramic views.
- Starting Point: Waynesboro, VA
- Ending Point: Cherokee, NC
- Highlights: Great Smoky Mountains, Linville Gorge, Craggy Gardens
With its varying elevation and continuous curves, it provides a delightful challenge for riders while showcasing the stunning beauty of the eastern United States.
3. Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina & Tennessee
For those in search of thrills, the Tail of the Dragon is renowned in the biking community. With its 318 curves in just 11 miles, this ride offers an adrenaline-pumping experience through the dense forests of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Starting Point: Deals Gap, NC
- Ending Point: Chilhowee Lake, TN
- Highlights: Tight curves, breathtaking forest views, motorcycle-themed attractions
This legendary road is perfect for experienced riders looking to test their skills and enjoy some of the most challenging turns in North America.
4. Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming
Often referred to as the most beautiful road in America, Beartooth Highway offers high-altitude adventure through the rugged terrain of the northern Rockies. The road’s elevation reaches above 10,000 feet, providing jaw-dropping vistas and cooler temperatures.
- Starting Point: Red Lodge, MT
- Ending Point: Cooke City, MT
- Highlights: Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, panoramic mountain views, scenic overlooks
Due to its high elevation, this route is best experienced in late spring through early fall when the road is clear of snow.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Nestled within Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a breathtakingly scenic ride across the continental divide. This 50-mile-long stretch mesmerizes riders with its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and up-close encounters with wildlife.
- Starting Point: West Glacier, MT
- Ending Point: St. Mary, MT
- Highlights: Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, Jackson Glacier Overlook
Due to weather conditions, this road is typically open mid-June through mid-September, offering a narrow window to experience its transformative scenery.
These top five scenic motorcycle road trips not only offer adventure seekers a thrilling ride but also the chance to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes the USA has to offer. So pack your bags, plot your route, and hit the open road for an unforgettable journey!
