We know, we know: you’ve heard of Route 66, you know that the Rocky Mountains have some seriously awesome routes, and that riding in Arizona is a dream. But what about scenic motorcycle roads in the USA that aren’t as widely known? If you’re planning a motorcycle adventure in the States, here are six of our favorite bike routes to enjoy:
1. Pacific Coast Highway - CA
No matter what type of bike you ride – road, cruiser, or an adventure motorcycle – Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket list route when it comes to California scenery. Covering over 760 km from Los Angeles to San Francisco, this is a road made for motorcycling: it meanders along the Pacific Ocean revealing stunning vistas of wild cliffs plunging into the water, mountains meeting the sea, and hidden little coves and beaches that seem so pristine it’s hard to believe they’re real.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
There are plenty of big, sweeping curves, jaw-dropping lookout points, and that open horizon enticing you to keep eating up the miles. Big Sur is probably the most scenic stretch of the Pacific Highway with its dramatic mountain scenery and few traces of human activity, and once you hit San Francisco, there’s the iconic ride over the Golden Bridge (pro tip – get there early and on a weekday to avoid tourist crowds!).
It's best to ride the Pacific Coast Highway in two or three days to truly appreciate the magnificence of this road, and there’s no shortage of biker-friendly places to stay at and find a meal along the way.
calimotour Pacific Coast Highway
2. Monument Valley Ride, AZ & UT
You’ve seen those classic images of a long and lonesome road stretching into the distance, giant red rock towers rising above the ground on either side… That’s Monument Valley in Arizona, easily one of the most spectacular places in the US.
To get the best out of this ride, start in Flagstaff, Arizona, and head towards Kayenta where the Monument Valley landscapes begin. From here, you can keep riding North toward Mexican Hat, Utah for more awe-inspiring red rock formations. If you happen to be traveling on an adventure or dual sport motorcycle, it’s worth checking out Valley of the Gods and Goosenecks area where remote dirt trails take you across some of Utah’s most incredible and rugged country.
Monument Valley Road, Arizona
Pro tip: if you’re hoping to get that iconic photo riding the Monument Valley road, wait until the sun begins to set – the “golden hour” just before dusk sets the red rock formations ablaze, making the colors pop against the blue skies.
calimotour Monument Valley Ride
3. The Million Dollar Highway - CO
The hundred kilometers between Ridgway and Durango in Colorado aren’t called The Million Dollar Highway for nothing. Locals say the name originates from the million-dollar views that await around every corner, and we’re not going to be the ones to argue with that: this route twists and turns across Colorado’s most beautiful range of mountains – the San Juans. The Million Dollar highway offers serious thrills as it winds in steep switchbacks and turns, clinging to the face of the mountain. And the views are nothing short of awe-inspiring – especially between Ouray and Silverton. Speaking of Silverton: if you love the Wild West, stop at the saloon in Silverton where you’ll be greeted by a bartender wearing sleeve garters and playing piano like it’s 1858.
The Wild West is alive and well in Silverton, Colorado
Don’t forget: The Million Dollar Highway is best ridden during summer. In early spring, fall, and winter, some of the mountain passes may be snowed in.
calimotour The Million Dollar Highway
4. Tail of the Dragon - TN
Is it worth noting a route in the Smoky Mountains that’s merely fifteen kilometers long? Yes, when it’s the Tail of the Dragon – America’s curviest road boasting 318 turns in eleven miles. Located in Tennessee at Deals Gap, Tail of the Dragon is one of American riders' favorite motorcycling roads, and you’re guaranteed to meet plenty of like-minded souls along the way.
The Smoky Mountains
5. Blue Ridge Parkway, TN & VA
If Tail of the Dragon isn’t enough, head on over to the Blue Ridge Parkway stretching for 600 kilometers between Tennessee and West Virginia. When it comes to the most scenic motorcycle roads in the USA, Blue Ridge Parkway has few rivals. This road is as curvy and twisty as a route in the Rocky Mountain, and the scenery here is simply out of this world: imagine blue, dreamy mountain slopes shrouded in mist (this is what gives the Smoky Mountains its name) with all the stunning beauty of the Appalachia unfolding in front of you, wildlife like black bears often crossing the road, and perfect solitude. Don’t forget that there is a 45 mph speed limit on the Blue Ridge, so go easy on that throttle – this road is about scenery as much as it is about those inviting curves.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachia
6. Florida Keys Highway - FL
Longing for sun, sea, and Technicolor-blue sky? Florida awaits: the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is a dream ride, especially if you’re on a cruiser. Running from Key Largo to Key West, the Florida Keys Highway connects 43 islands with long bridges, so you’re often riding right over the water as if suspended above the sea.
Florida Keys Scenic Highway
It’s a spectacular and sunny ride, and if you have the time, be sure to stop and spend a night in one of the Keys for Cuban food, Bahamian vibes, and the Hog Heaven bar offering food and drinks from dusk till dawn.
calimotour Florida Keys Highway
Eglé Gerulaityté is a motorcycle journalist and author. She works with calimoto's partner MOTOURISMO, the world's largest booking portal and online travel agency for motorcycle tours, training, and shipping. Looking to find your own USA ride? Check out the latest motorcycle tours and trips in the States on MOTOURISMO.
