6 Motorcycle Road Trips You Can’t Miss in the U.S.
Riding a motorcycle across the U.S. is the ultimate way to see the country, but it’s not just about the scenery. On a bike, you’re exposed to everything: the wind, the temperature shifts, and the raw condition of the pavement. While these routes offer some of the best views in America, they also demand respect. From high-altitude mountain passes to fog-drenched coastal cliffs, here are six road trips that every rider should have on their bucket list—if they have the skill to handle them.
| Quick Trip Facts | |
|---|---|
| Main Hazards | Sudden weather shifts, loose gravel, and wildlife |
| Technical Skills | Heavy engine braking and precision cornering |
| Must-Haves | Full protective gear and offline maps (service is spotty) |
1. Northwest Passage Scenic Byway (Idaho)
This 202-mile stretch follows the historic path of Lewis & Clark. It’s a mountain ride through and through, crossing lush forests and deep canyons. The challenge here is endurance; the road winds constantly, and the weather between Montana and Washington can change from bright sun to a soaking rain in less than thirty minutes.
2. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
If you want elevation, this is it. Climbing to nearly 11,000 feet, the Beartooth Highway is famous for its relentless switchbacks. Expect loose rocks on the road and potential ice, even in the middle of summer. At this altitude, your bike will lose some power and you’ll tire out faster. Keep your eyes on the road, not just the peaks.
3. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The legendary PCH. Riding along the ocean sounds relaxing, but the Pacific fog can roll in and blind you in seconds. The salt and moisture in the air often leave a slick film on the asphalt. In the Big Sur sections where guardrails are scarce, you’ll want to be very careful with your entry speeds.
4. The Twisted Sisters (Texas)
State Highways 335, 336, and 337 in the Texas Hill Country make up this 100-mile loop. The name says it all: these are tight, jagged curves with sudden "blind" crests. It’s a favorite for Texas riders, but it requires total concentration to avoid overshooting a corner or hitting localized debris.
5. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi/Tennessee)
This 450-mile historic trail is a different kind of challenge. There are no jagged peaks, but the wildlife risk is massive. Deer are everywhere, and because the road is so quiet and unlit, they can jump out in front of you without warning. It’s a great ride for finding your rhythm, but never drop your guard.
6. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina/Virginia)
Spanning nearly 500 miles through the Appalachians, this road is a non-stop series of curves. The main issue here is the "micro-climate." You can start a climb in 80-degree sunshine and find yourself shivering in thick fog and 60-degree temperatures at the top of the ridge. Always pack extra layers.
Pro Tips for the Ride
- Don't trust your phone: You will lose service in the mountains. Download your maps for offline use or carry a paper backup.
- Pre-ride check: Inspect your tires, brakes, and fluids every morning. A breakdown in the middle of nowhere is more than just an inconvenience.
- Manage your fatigue: Riding a bike is physically demanding. Stop every 90 minutes to stretch and keep your mind sharp for the road ahead.
Conclusion
These six routes represent some of the most iconic pavement in the U.S. By keeping your bike maintained and your head in the game, you can tackle the best the American landscape has to offer. Just remember: on these roads, your skill is the only thing that matters.