There’s nothing like hitting the open road on a motorcycle. The U.S. has some of the best routes, from the Pacific coast to the Appalachian mountains, offering amazing views and exciting rides. Check out these top 20 scenic roads for an epic adventure!
Pacific Coast Highway, California
This iconic 656-mile route along California’s rugged coastline is a motorcyclist’s dream. You’ll wind past towering redwoods, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches.
Don’t miss the chance to cross the famous Bixby Bridge in Big Sur, a perfect spot for a photo op. Keep an eye out for elephant seals lounging on the beaches near San Simeon.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, this scenic byway offers a perfect blend of sweeping vistas and challenging curves. You’ll ride along the crest of the mountains, passing through tunnels of trees that burst into vibrant colors in autumn.
Stop at Milepost 384 for a breathtaking view of Looking Glass Rock.
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Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This 50-mile road in Glacier National Park is an engineering marvel that will take your breath away. You’ll climb to over 6,600 feet as you pass by glacial lakes, alpine tundra, and rugged mountain peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats and bighorn sheep along the cliffs.
The road is typically open from late June to mid-October, weather permitting.
Tail of the Dragon: Tennessee and North Carolina
For those who love a challenge, this 11-mile stretch of U.S. 129 offers 318 curves in just 11 miles. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the thrill of conquering ‘The Dragon’ is unmatched.
The surrounding Smoky Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop. Remember to ride within your limits and watch out for other enthusiasts enjoying this popular route.
Beartooth Highway: Montana and Wyoming
This 68-mile stretch of U.S. 212 is often called the most beautiful drive in America. You’ll climb to nearly 11,000 feet, experiencing dramatic changes in the ecosystem, from lush forest to alpine tundra.
The sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes are simply stunning. The road is typically open from late May to mid-October.
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Highway 12, Utah
This 124-mile road takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southwest. You’ll pass by red rock formations, pine forests, and the stark beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Don’t miss the chance to ride the ‘Hog’s Back’, a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides.
Skyline Drive, Virginia
This 105-mile road runs the length of Shenandoah National Park, offering stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont. With a speed limit of 35 mph, it’s perfect for a leisurely ride to soak in the scenery.
Keep an eye out for black bears, especially in the early morning or late evening.
San Juan Skyway, Colorado
This 233-mile loop through southwest Colorado takes you through some of the most picturesque mountain towns in the Rockies. You’ll pass by 14,000-foot peaks, old mining towns, and hot springs.
The stretch known as the ‘Million Dollar Highway’ between Ouray and Silverton is particularly spectacular, with hairpin turns and sheer drop-offs.
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Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi
This 444-mile route follows a historic travel corridor used by Native Americans and early European settlers. You’ll ride through lush forests, rolling hills, and peaceful farmland.
The lack of commercial development and limited access points make for a peaceful, scenic ride. Don’t miss the chance to explore some of the historic sites along the way.
Coastal Route 1, Maine
This 167-mile route along Maine’s rugged coastline offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and New England charm. You’ll pass by lighthouses, quaint fishing villages, and rocky beaches.
Be sure to stop in Bar Harbor for a lobster roll and a view of Acadia National Park. The route is particularly beautiful in autumn when the coastal forests burst into color.
Hana Highway, Hawaii
This 64-mile stretch of Hawaii’s Route 36 and 360 on Maui is a tropical paradise for motorcyclists. You’ll navigate 620 curves and cross 59 bridges, passing by lush rainforests, waterfalls, and black sand beaches.
Take your time and enjoy the journey – there’s a reason they call it the ‘Road to Hana’ and not the ‘Road in Hana.’
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Overseas Highway, Florida
This 113-mile highway connects the Florida Keys, offering a unique riding experience where you’re surrounded by water on both sides. You’ll cross 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
The turquoise waters and tropical scenery make for a stunning ride. Don’t forget to stop in Key West for a slice of key lime pie.
Route 66, Multiple States
While the entire 2,448-mile ‘Mother Road’ from Chicago to Santa Monica is worth riding, the stretch through the Southwest is particularly scenic. You’ll pass by iconic Americana, from neon signs to quirky roadside attractions.
Don’t miss the Painted Desert in Arizona or the Cadillac Ranch in Texas. It’s a ride through history and diverse landscapes.
Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
This 330-mile loop around Washington’s Olympic Peninsula offers an incredible diversity of scenery. You’ll ride through rainforests, along rugged coastlines, and in the shadow of snow-capped mountains.
Be sure to stop at Ruby Beach for a view of sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shores. The route is beautiful year-round but especially lush in spring.
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Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
This 34-mile stretch of Route 112 through the White Mountain National Forest is particularly stunning in autumn. You’ll climb to nearly 3,000 feet, passing by mountain views, waterfalls, and covered bridges.
There are no gas stations or restaurants along the route, so plan accordingly. The lack of development adds to the natural beauty of the ride.
Highway 1 through Big Sur, California
While part of the larger Pacific Coast Highway, this 90-mile stretch deserves special mention. You’ll ride along cliff edges with the Santa Lucia Mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other.
The Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls are must-see stops. Keep an eye out for California condors soaring overhead.
Cherohala Skyway: Tennessee and North Carolina
This 43-mile National Scenic Byway connects Tellico Plains, Tennessee, with Robbinsville, North Carolina. You’ll climb from 900 feet to over 5,400 feet, experiencing dramatic changes in vegetation and temperature.
The sweeping curves and stunning mountain vistas make for an exhilarating ride. It’s less crowded than nearby Tail of the Dragon, offering a more peaceful experience.
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North Shore Scenic Drive, Minnesota
This 142-mile route along Lake Superior’s north shore offers stunning views of the largest Great Lake. You’ll pass by lighthouses, waterfalls, and rocky cliffs.
Don’t miss the chance to stop at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park for a classic Lake Superior photo op. The route is particularly beautiful in autumn when the forests along the shore burst into color.
Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado
This 19-mile toll road to the summit of Pikes Peak is not for the faint of heart, but the views are unparalleled. You’ll climb 6,715 feet in elevation, passing through diverse ecosystems before reaching the 14,115-foot summit.
The hairpin turns and steep drop-offs add to the thrill. Remember to dress warmly – it can be 30 degrees cooler at the top than at the base.
Apache Trail, Arizona
This 40-mile partially unpaved road through the Superstition Mountains offers a taste of the Wild West. You’ll navigate hairpin turns and steep climbs, passing by desert landscapes, canyon lakes, and old mining towns.
The road can be challenging, especially the unpaved section, but the views of the Sonoran Desert are worth it. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the cliffs.
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Plan a Motorcycle Ride through a Scenic Route
From coast to coast, America’s roads offer an incredible diversity of scenery and riding experiences. These 20 scenic roads are just the beginning of what the U.S. has to offer motorcycle enthusiasts.
So, plan your route, pack your saddlebags, and hit the open road. The adventure of a lifetime is waiting around the next bend. Remember to ride safely, respect the environment, and take the time to soak in the incredible beauty of America’s landscapes.
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