5 Best Motorcycle Routes In The US

Touring the country on a motorcycle is an experience like no other — your mind and bodywork as one to balance your bike, which heightens your sense of freedom and excitement. Then there’s the stunning backdrop of every place you pass through, inviting you to slow down and linger for a little while. You can never get the same experience if you’re inside a car. For all our avid bikers out there, here are 5 of the best motorcycle routes in the United States.

Peak to Peak Highway — Colorado

Although only 60 miles long, this ride features some of the most dizzying twists you will ever encounter. Top that up with some of the finest views on planet Earth and you’re in for one heck of a visceral experience. Immerse yourself in the impressive Rocky Mountain panoramas as you cut through glacier-blanketed valleys and bend along a trail of lush forests toward alpine meadows. If you want to make the most out of this trip, bring your hiking boots and stop for a scenic walk. Or better yet, camp overnight under a sea of stars.

Pacific Coast Highway, Carmel to Morro Bay — California

If seal-filled beaches, crashing waves, towering redwood trees, and endless curves are what you live for, head to the Big Sur section of California’s coastal highway. It’s a cliff-lined stretch of road that lasts for a good 120 miles and boasts a scenery like no other. One thing to note is to avoid summer weekends as it can get pretty busy and dangerous. Big Sur is known for thick fogs so be sure to wear something warm.

Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument Ride — Utah

Scenic Byway 12 features a show-stopping 124 miles of eroded backdrops as it meanders along Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. It’s well-known for its colorful cliffs, mesas, buttes, and canyons that are nothing short of fantastic. Here, you can experience history as you interact with Native American peoples and plunge into their way of life. This entire trip will last you 2 days, so don’t be in a hurry if you want to get the full experience. 

River Road — Texas

Beyond the butter-smooth Highway 170 between Candelaria and Presidio is a 17-mile off-road path that scythes the Valley of the Gods. River Road is a winding 115-mile trail that brags a variety of colors, from reds to purples. It also features the Fort Leaton State Historic Site. Just make sure you avoid this path during the summer because between the heat of the sun and ancient lava flows, you’d most certainly not want to come back… unless, of course, Danger is your middle name.

Natchez Trace Parkway — Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi

In the 1930s, this was a migratory track for Native Americans and buffalo. This ride stretches a good 444 miles, spanning across Nashville and Natchez. Its cultural, historic, and scenic appeal earned it the nickname the National Scenic Byway. Saturated in Civil War battle history as well as segments of the original Natchez Trace Indian Trail, we can vouch that this route won’t leave you bored. If you ever need a break, spend the night in one of its biker-friendly B&Bs and just breathe in the kaleidoscope views.

What a ride! We at American Legend Rider want to keep writing about the things that excite you, such as the 5 biker routes mentioned above. If you have any suggestions for us, feel free to share them in the comment section below!