There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road on two wheels—the wind in your face, the roar of the engine beneath you, and endless scenic highways stretching ahead. The U.S. is home to some of the most breathtaking motorcycle road trips, offering riders a mix of coastal beauty, rugged mountains, desert landscapes, and historic routes.
Whether you’re an experienced rider seeking thrilling curves or a casual cruiser looking for scenic serenity, this guide covers the best motorcycle road trips in the U.S. that every rider should experience at least once.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway – The Ultimate Scenic Ride
Location: Virginia to North Carolina
Distance: 469 miles
Best Time to Ride: Spring and Fall
The Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” and for good reason. This route offers smooth, winding roads that carve through the Appalachian Mountains, passing by lush forests, stunning overlooks, and historic sites. There are no stoplights or commercial vehicles, making it a peaceful ride where you can truly enjoy the scenery.
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Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains
- The famous Linn Cove Viaduct
- Plenty of twisties for an enjoyable ride
- Charming mountain towns like Asheville, NC
2. Pacific Coast Highway – A Ride Along the Ocean
Location: California (Highway 1)
Distance: ~655 miles (San Francisco to Los Angeles and beyond)
Best Time to Ride: Late Spring to Early Fall
For riders who love ocean views and coastal breezes, California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a dream come true. The winding roads hug the coastline, offering panoramic views of cliffs, beaches, and the endless Pacific Ocean.
Highlights:
- The iconic Bixby Bridge in Big Sur
- Stunning coastal views and oceanfront cliffs
- Riding through Monterey, Malibu, and Santa Barbara
- Incredible seafood stops along the way
3. Tail of the Dragon – The Ultimate Thrill Ride
Location: Tennessee/North Carolina border (US 129)
Distance: 11 miles
Best Time to Ride: Spring and Fall
If you’re looking for a challenge, Tail of the Dragon is the ultimate motorcycle road for adrenaline junkies. Though it's only 11 miles long, this stretch packs a whopping 318 curves, making it one of the most technical and exhilarating rides in the country.
Highlights:
- No intersections or driveways—just pure riding
- Legendary turns like “The Gravity Cavity” and “The Whip”
- Scenic, tree-lined roads through the Great Smoky Mountains
- A must-visit for riders looking to test their skills
4. Route 66 – The Classic American Road Trip
Location: Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA
Distance: ~2,400 miles
Best Time to Ride: Late Spring to Early Fall
Few roads in America carry the nostalgia and history of Route 66. This legendary highway takes riders through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and some of the most iconic landscapes in the U.S. It’s the ultimate ride for those who want to experience classic Americana on two wheels.
Highlights:
- The famous Cadillac Ranch in Texas
- The Painted Desert and Petrified Forest in Arizona
- The Route 66 Museum in Oklahoma
- Riding through ghost towns and historic diners
5. Beartooth Highway – A High-Altitude Adventure
Location: Montana/Wyoming (US 212)
Distance: 68 miles
Best Time to Ride: Summer (June – September)
For those who love high-altitude rides with breathtaking scenery, Beartooth Highway is a bucket-list destination. This road climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, offering switchbacks, alpine lakes, and panoramic mountain views. It’s one of the most thrilling and scenic motorcycle routes in the U.S.
Highlights:
- Sweeping mountain vistas at every turn
- Numerous switchbacks and elevation changes
- Access to Yellowstone National Park
- A true test of riding skill in high-altitude conditions
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Ride Through a National Park
Location: Glacier National Park, Montana
Distance: 50 miles
Best Time to Ride: Summer (July – September)
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking journey through Glacier National Park, featuring towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a seasonal road, open only in the warmer months, making it a special ride for those lucky enough to experience it.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of Logan Pass
- Waterfalls cascading from mountain cliffs
- Stunning wildlife sightings, including bighorn sheep and mountain goats
- A true immersion in nature
7. Natchez Trace Parkway – A Ride Through History
Location: Tennessee to Mississippi
Distance: 444 miles
Best Time to Ride: Spring and Fall
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic and historic ride that follows an ancient Native American trail. With smooth pavement, minimal traffic, and beautiful scenery, it’s a relaxed and enjoyable trip for riders who love history and peaceful roads.
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Highlights:
- Historic landmarks and Civil War sites
- Smooth, well-maintained roads with minimal stops
- Beautiful forests, rivers, and open countryside
- Ideal for a laid-back, scenic ride
Conclusion: Pick Your Perfect Road Trip
The U.S. offers some of the best motorcycle road trips in the world, catering to all types of riders. Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of the Tail of the Dragon, the coastal beauty of Pacific Coast Highway, or the nostalgia of Route 66, there’s an unforgettable journey waiting for you.
Before heading out, remember to check road conditions, pack appropriately, and always ride safely. Now, gear up, hit the road, and experience the freedom that only a motorcycle adventure can provide!