America's Most Scenic Motorcycle Routes: Epic Rides You Can't Miss

The United States offers some of the world's most spectacular motorcycle touring opportunities. From coastal highways to mountain passes, desert vistas to forest canopies, these legendary routes provide unforgettable experiences for riders seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1)

Overview

Perhaps America's most famous scenic drive, Highway 1 stretches 656 miles along California's coastline from Dana Point to Leggett. Best Sections for Motorcycles:

• Monterey to San Simeon: Big Sur's dramatic cliffs and redwood forests
• Morro Bay to San Luis Obispo: Coastal beauty with manageable curves
• Mendocino to Fort Bragg: Rugged northern California coastline

Riding Tips:

• Watch for fog, especially in summer mornings
• Be cautious of gravel and sand on corners
• Plan fuel stops - services can be sparse in Big Sur
• Best weather: late spring through early fall

Must-See Stops:

• McWay Falls
• Bixby Creek Bridge
• Hearst Castle
• Point Sur Lighthouse

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia/North Carolina)

Overview

This 469-mile scenic highway connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering incredible mountain vistas and Appalachian culture. Highlights:

• Skyline Drive through Shenandoah (105 miles)
• Blue Ridge Parkway proper (469 miles)
• Numerous overlooks and hiking opportunities

Best Riding Seasons:

• Spring: Wildflowers and mild temperatures
• Fall: Spectacular autumn colors (peak varies by elevation)
• Avoid winter due to potential closures

Notable Features:

• Mabry Mill (mile marker 176)
• Grandfather Mountain
• Craggy Pinnacle
• Mount Mitchell (highest peak east of Mississippi)

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Overview

This spectacular 50-mile mountain road crosses Glacier National Park, climbing to 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. Riding Considerations:

• Open typically July through October
• Vehicle length restrictions (check current limits)
• Narrow road with steep drop-offs
• Weather can change rapidly

Scenic Highlights:

• Lake McDonald
• The Loop (hairpin turn with mountain views)
• Logan Pass visitor center
• Hidden Lake overlook

Planning Notes:

• Reservations required for park entry
• Fuel up before entering the park
• Carry warm gear even in summer

Tail of the Dragon (North Carolina/Tennessee)

Overview

US Route 129 through the Smoky Mountains features 318 curves in just 11 miles, making it a mecca for sport touring riders. The Challenge:

• Technical riding through dense forest
• Elevation changes and blind corners
• Heavy motorcycle traffic on weekends
• Photography opportunities at Deals Gap

Safety Considerations:

• Watch for car drivers unfamiliar with the road
• Respect speed limits and local traffic laws
• Stay in your lane - oncoming traffic can't see around curves
• Best times: weekday mornings

Route 66 (Illinois to California)

Overview

The legendary "Mother Road" spans 2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a journey through American history and diverse landscapes. Modern Route Considerations:

• Original route replaced by interstates in many sections
• Historic alignments still rideable in many areas
• Plan stops at historic attractions and Route 66 museums

Must-Experience Sections:

• Illinois farmland to Missouri
• Oklahoma's preserved Route 66 segments
• New Mexico's high desert
• Arizona's painted desert and petrified forest

Cultural Highlights:

• Route 66 museums in multiple states
• Historic gas stations and diners
• Native American trading posts
• Cadillac Ranch (Texas)

Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)

Overview

US Highway 550 between Durango and Ouray offers some of Colorado's most dramatic mountain scenery through the San Juan Mountains. Riding Challenges:

• High altitude (over 11,000 feet at passes)
• Steep grades and switchbacks
• Potential for sudden weather changes
• No guardrails in many sections

Scenic Rewards:

• Red Mountain Pass
• Historic mining towns
• Alpine meadows and waterfalls
• Views of 14,000-foot peaks

Best Timing:

• Late spring through early fall
• Early morning for best lighting
• Watch weather forecasts carefully

Regional Favorites

Northeast

Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire): 34 miles through White Mountain National Forest with spectacular fall colors. Acadia Loop Road (Maine): Coastal and mountain views in Acadia National Park.

Southeast

Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee/North Carolina): 43 miles of mountain vistas with less traffic than nearby routes. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi/Alabama/Tennessee): Historic 444-mile route through diverse landscapes.

Southwest

Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming): High-altitude route to Yellowstone with alpine scenery. Apache Trail (Arizona): Desert mountain route with Superstition Mountain views.

West Coast

Olympic Peninsula Loop (Washington): Diverse ecosystems from rainforests to coastal beaches. Avenue of the Giants (California): 31 miles through ancient redwood groves.

Planning Your Scenic Route Adventure

Research and Preparation

• Check road conditions and seasonal closures
• Plan fuel stops and accommodations
• Understand local weather patterns
• Research points of interest and photo opportunities

Safety Considerations

• Inform others of your route and timeline
• Carry emergency communication devices
• Check motorcycle insurance coverage for long trips
• Plan for varying weather conditions

Photography and Documentation

• Bring proper camera equipment
• Stop safely for photos - don't photograph while riding
• Respect private property and environmental regulations
• Share experiences responsibly on social media

Weather and Timing

• Mountain routes: avoid early spring and late fall
• Coastal routes: watch for fog and wind
• Desert routes: avoid extreme summer heat
• Fall foliage: research peak timing for specific areas

Gear Recommendations for Scenic Tours

Essential Equipment

• GPS with offline maps
• Extra fuel capacity or range calculator
• All-weather riding gear
• Emergency communication device
• Tool kit and tire repair supplies

Comfort Items

• Comfortable seat or padding
• Luggage systems for extended tours
• Hydration systems
• Sun protection

Conclusion

America's scenic motorcycle routes offer incredible diversity and beauty. Whether you prefer coastal curves, mountain passes, or historic highways, there's a perfect route waiting for your next adventure. Plan carefully, ride safely, and take time to appreciate the spectacular scenery that makes these routes legendary among motorcyclists worldwide. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.