When it comes to motorcycle rides, there are countless roads across the U.S. that make for a memorable journey. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the best motorcycle routes in USA, many of which have become favorites for seasoned riders like myself. The 50 selected routes are featured in a special anniversary issue, where the magazine shares the top motorcycle tours and must-ride roads.
These routes are spread across the vast 3.9 million miles of roads in the country, but we only cover a mere 13,467 miles. It’s just a tiny drop in the bucket compared to the thousands of great roads still waiting to be explored.
For anyone looking to take on these iconic rides, it’s important to know that they’re not ranked but listed alphabetically by state. Whether you’re cruising through a desert or winding along coastal cliffs, each of these routes offers a unique experience. The journey is about more than just the destination—it’s about the stories shared on the open road and the adventures that unfold with every turn.
1. Dalton Highway (Alaska / 414 miles)
The Dalton Highway in Alaska is a legendary route that spans 414 miles from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay, paralleling the famous Trans-Alaska Pipeline. This gravel road offers an epic adventure that takes riders across the Arctic Circle and the Continental Divide, making it a must-ride bucket list route for any motorcycle enthusiast.
2. Jasper Disaster Loop (Arkansas / 56 miles)
The Jasper Disaster Loop in the Ozark Mountains offers an exciting 56-mile route that starts and ends in Jasper, Arkansas. This ride takes you through AR 7, AR 43, and AR 74, with hundreds of tight curves along the way, making it perfect for those who enjoy a thrilling challenge. The route crosses the Buffalo National River twice, providing beautiful, scenic views. If you’re looking for a unique ride in Arkansas, this loop is a must-see!
3. Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas / 20 miles)
The Pig Trail Scenic Byway in Arkansas is a 20-mile route that offers a breathtaking ride through the Ozarks. This road winds its way through dense hardwood forests and over scenic ridges, providing stunning views of the landscape. As you ride along, you’ll find yourself passing by burbling rivers, making it the perfect route for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the region. Known as one of the best roads in the area, this scenic byway is a must-ride for motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy a smooth yet thrilling journey.
4. Talimena National Scenic Byway (Arkansas, Oklahoma / 54 miles)
The Talimena National Scenic Byway spans 54 miles between Mena, Arkansas (AR 88) and Talihina, Oklahoma (OK 1), offering one of the most scenic winding roads in the country. This stunning route takes riders through the Ouachita National Forest, where you’ll pass along the beautiful ridges of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain.
5. Coronado Trail (Arizona / 123 miles)
The Coronado Trail in Arizona is a 123-mile stretch of U.S. 191 that follows the path used in 1540 by Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado. This historic trail offers riders a unique journey through the eastern Arizona landscape, passing through high-alpine meadows, winding along ridges, and offering breathtaking views of open-pit copper mines. The route is famous for its hundreds of curves, making it a thrilling ride for any motorcycle enthusiast. If you’re looking for a ride that combines history with natural beauty, the Coronado Trail is a must.
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6. Arizona Routes 89/89A (Arizona / 131 miles)
The Arizona Routes 89/89A take riders on a 131-mile journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in central Arizona. Starting from the Colorado Plateau, the route winds through the iconic red rocks of Sedona and passes through historic towns like Jerome and Prescott. You’ll travel across beautiful valleys and over rugged mountains, experiencing the diverse terrain of the region. Known for being a greatest-hits tour, these sibling state routes offer the perfect motorcycle ride for anyone looking to see the best of what Arizona has to offer.
7. Pacific Coast Highway (California / 656 miles)
Rides along CA 1 have been a staple in rider travel since our first issue. This iconic route traces California’s dramatic coastline, providing breathtaking views and an unforgettable riding experience.
8. Serpent to the Sea (California / 140 miles)
Starting at U.S. 101 near Fortuna, this section of CA 36 heads east, passing through Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park before turning into an exhilarating, never-ending roller coaster ride.
9. Avenue of the Giants (California / 31 miles)
The Avenue of the Giants in California is a breathtaking 31-mile route that runs parallel to U.S. 101. This meandering route takes riders through towering groves of old-growth coast redwoods, some reaching hundreds of feet above the road. As you ride, you’ll follow the path of the wild and scenic Eel River, offering a truly immersive experience in nature. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful ride or a majestic view, the Avenue of the Giants never disappoints.
10. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado / 25 miles)
The Million Dollar Highway, part of U.S. 550, stretches for 25 miles between Ouray and Silverton in Colorado. Known for its scenic views, this road takes riders through the rugged San Juan Mountains, where they’ll experience breathtaking mountain vistas and high passes.
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11. Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (Colorado / 28 miles)
The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway in Colorado is a 28-mile stretch that offers riders a unique chance to climb up to 7,000 feet in elevation. The final elevation of 14,130 feet makes it one of the most scenic rides in North America, with a route that’s truly one for the books.
12. Georgia Triangle (Georgia / 35 miles)
The Georgia Triangle is a thrilling 35-mile loop in north Georgia that connects GA 60, GA 180, and U.S. 129. This route is known for its winding roads, with a stunning view as it circumnavigates Blood Mountain. A major highlight of the ride is the Two Wheels of Suches, a popular motorcycle resort where riders can relax and share their experiences.
13. Salmon River Scenic Byway (Idaho / 160 miles)
The Salmon River Scenic Byway in Idaho stretches for 160 miles, offering one of the most scenic rides in the state. This scenic byway follows the winding Salmon River through the rugged Sawtooth Mountains, providing riders with spectacular views of the river and surrounding peaks. As you ride, you’ll also cross the Continental Divide at the impressive 7,014-foot Lost Trail Pass, adding a touch of adventure to an already breathtaking route.
14. Route 66 (Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California / 2,448 miles)
Route 66, famously dubbed the “Mother Road” by John Steinbeck in The Grapes of Wrath, is one of the most iconic motorcycle routes in the USA. This historic highway spans 2,448 miles and runs through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, offering riders a blend of the shortest, fastest, and most scenic routes from Chicago to Los Angeles.
15. Kentucky Coal Route (Kentucky / 218 miles)
The Kentucky Coal Route is a 218-mile ride through the heart of coal country in Kentucky, offering motorcyclists a chance to explore the rich history of the region. This route follows Daniel Boone’s Wilderness Road and takes you over the impressive 4,145-foot Black Mountain. As you ride along U.S. 421, you’ll also pass through areas made famous by the 1958 Robert Mitchum movie Thunder Road, adding a touch of cinematic history to the journey.
16. Red River Gorge Scenic Byway (Kentucky / 46 miles)
The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway in Kentucky stretches for 46 miles, offering riders a chance to explore the wild and scenic beauty of the region. This byway follows the Red River, passing through a National Geologic Area that features stunning stone arches, caves, cliffs, and ravines. Along the way, you’ll also see beautiful waterfalls and the famous Nada Tunnel.
17. Park Loop Road (Maine / 27 miles)
Park Loop Road in Maine is a 27-mile scenic road that winds through the stunning Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island. This route takes you past beautiful woodlands, striking rocky beaches, and towering glacier-scoured granite peaks, including the famous Cadillac Mountain.
18. Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway (Maine / 52 miles)
The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway in Maine is a 52-mile ride through some of the most picturesque landscapes in New England. This scenic route takes riders through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, winding its way through lush woodlands and around tranquil lakes and peaceful ponds.
19. Copper Country Trail (Michigan / 47 miles)
The Copper Country Trail in Michigan offers a 47-mile ride through the stunning Keweenaw Peninsula, which extends into Lake Superior like a dorsal fin from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll ride past the charming town of Copper Harbor and experience the breathtaking views provided by Brockway Mountain Drive. This byway provides sweeping views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
20. Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route (Michigan / 20 miles)
The Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route in Michigan is a 20-mile stretch along M-119 that offers a truly unique riding experience. This narrow, curvy path runs along the edge of Lake Michigan, connecting Harbor Springs and Cross Village. As you ride, you’re immersed in a beautiful tunnel of foliage, with trees arching overhead to create a natural canopy.
21. Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway (Minnesota / 88 miles)
If you’re seeking a scenic motorcycle ride through southern Minnesota, the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway (also known as MN 16) is a must. This byway takes you on an 88-mile journey starting at the majestic Mississippi River and winding west through the stunning Root River Valley. As you ride, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of curving roads that snake through rolling hills and towering dolomite bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.
22. Great River Road National Scenic Byway (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana / 2,069 miles)
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway is a legendary road that stretches across 10 states, covering an impressive 2,069 miles. This route follows the mighty Mississippi River, beginning at its headwaters in Minnesota and winding its way south to the sprawling delta in Louisiana.
23. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee / 444 miles)
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a remarkable national parkway stretching 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. This road follows the historic Old Natchez Trace, which was once used by Native Americans, European settlers, traders, and soldiers. As you cruise through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, you’ll feel the legacy of the past and experience the serenity of this iconic route.
24. Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road (Montana / 50 miles)
The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is one of the most stunning motorcycle routes in the USA. This 50-mile stretch takes riders through Glacier National Park, offering views of the rugged Rocky Mountains and the iconic Logan Pass at an elevation of 6,646 feet. The road crosses the Continental Divide, providing an exhilarating experience as you ride through sharp turns and breathtaking landscapes.
25. North Carolina Route 28 (North Carolina / 81 miles)
If you’re craving a thrilling curvy road ride, North Carolina Route 28 offers just that. Stretching for 81 miles through the stunning landscapes of North Carolina, this route takes you through parts of the famous Moonshiner 28 and the picturesque Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. Starting at Deals Gap and heading to the Georgia state line, it’s a motorcyclist’s dream, with sharp twists and turns that make it both challenging and exciting.
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26. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina, Virginia / 469 miles)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is the quintessential scenic ride through the Appalachian highlands. Stretching 469 miles through North Carolina and Virginia, this national parkway is known for its perfectly shaped curves and well-maintained pavement, making it a smooth and enjoyable ride for motorcyclists. Along the way, you’ll encounter countless scenic overlooks, each offering breathtaking views of the mountains and forests.
27. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire / 35 miles)
The Kancamagus Highway (NH 112) is a spectacular road that twists through the stunning White Mountains in New Hampshire. Known for its breathtaking views, this 35-mile route is one of the best leaf-peeper routes in New England, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
28. Mount Washington Auto Road (New Hampshire / 8 miles)
The Mount Washington Auto Road in New Hampshire is a thrilling short toll road that takes you to the top of Mount Washington, standing at a towering 6,288 feet. This 8-mile ride is famous for its bad weather, making the journey both exciting and challenging. On the summit, you’ll find a recorded wind speed of 231 mph, a world record that stood until 1996.
29. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico / 84 miles)
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in New Mexico is an 84-mile route that circles the stunning 13,167-foot Wheeler Peak. This scenic loop takes you through beautiful valleys, towering mountains, and dramatic mesas, all while passing through national forests. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of New Mexico’s most culturally rich towns and villages, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and local history
30. Great Continental Divide Route (New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana / 2,767 miles)
The Great Continental Divide Route is a legendary off-road route that spans 2,767 miles across five states, from the U.S.-Mexico border all the way up to Banff, Canada. This journey is no small feat, making it a serious undertaking for any rider. As you pass through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, you’ll experience a mix of rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes.
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31. U.S. Route 50 in Nevada (Nevada / 409 miles)
Known as The Loneliest Road in America by Life magazine, U.S. Route 50 in Nevada spans 409 miles and offers a truly unique experience for motorcyclists. This stretch of the transcontinental Lincoln Highway takes you through the harsh yet beautiful basin-and-range topography and follows the historic Pony Express route.
32. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (New York / 70 miles)
The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway (NY 97) is a 70-mile ride that hugs the eastern shore of the Delaware River. As you cruise along this route, you’ll pass through protected parkland, offering a peaceful, nature-filled experience. One of the most exciting parts of this ride is the winding Hawk’s Nest, a portion of the road carved into the cliffside.
33. Triple Nickel (Ohio / 62 miles)
The Triple Nickel (OH 555) is one of the great motorcycle roads in Ohio, stretching over 62 miles. Known for its fun and challenging twists, this road ranks high among the best, especially the 21 miles between Chesterhill and Ringgold, where you’ll find plenty of thrills. As part of Ohio’s Windy 9, this route is in a target-rich environment, making it a top choice for riders seeking excitement and beautiful scenery.
34. Mount Hood Scenic Byway (Oregon / 105 miles)
The Mount Hood Scenic Byway in Oregon offers a 105-mile ride that begins at the Columbia River and winds its way around the namesake peak, the towering 11,249-foot active volcano of Mount Hood. As you ride, you’ll pass through gorges, lush rainforests, and pastoral valleys, each providing a unique view of the natural beauty of the region.
35. West Cascades Scenic Byway (Oregon / 220 miles)
The West Cascades Scenic Byway in Oregon spans 220 miles, following the contours of the Cascades range. This route offers motorcyclists a breathtaking journey through towering old-growth forests, with views of snowcapped volcanic peaks along the way. Riders are treated to the wild beauty of nature as they pass the scenic Clackamas River.
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36. PA Route 6 (Pennsylvania / 427 miles)
PA Route 6 (U.S. 6) is a stunning 427-mile ride across northern Pennsylvania, known for its picturesque landscapes. As you ride through lush forests and past charming small towns, you’ll be treated to highlights like the PA Wilds region, the iconic Kinzua Sky Walk, and the scenic Susquehanna River.
37. Iron Mountain Road (South Dakota / 17 miles)
Iron Mountain Road in South Dakota offers a thrilling 17-mile ride through the Black Hills, connecting Custer State Park to the iconic Mount Rushmore. This route features 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, and three wooden pigtail bridges, providing a unique and exciting challenge for motorcyclists.
38. Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee, North Carolina / 11 miles)
The Tail of the Dragon along U.S. 129 is an infamous section that stretches across Tennessee and North Carolina, bordering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 11-mile stretch is famous for its 318 curves, offering a wild ride that challenges even the most experienced motorcyclists.
39. Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee, North Carolina / 43 miles)
The Cherohala Skyway spans 43 miles through the stunning landscapes of Tennessee and North Carolina, passing through the beautiful Cherokee and Nantahala national forests. Completed in 1996 at a cost of $100M, this road is known for its perfectly radiused corners, smooth pavement, and stunning views.
40. Texas FM 170 (Texas / 50 miles)
Texas FM 170, stretching 50 miles from Lajitas to Presidio, is a scenic route that offers a thrilling roller coaster experience. This road runs along the Rio Grande, which marks the U.S.-Mexico border and the southern boundary of Big Bend Ranch State Park.
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41. Twisted Sisters (Texas / 132 miles)
The Twisted Sisters, a 132-mile route in Texas Hill Country, is one of the most scenic and challenging rides for motorcyclists. Connecting Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337, this ride is popular with bikers for its thrilling curves and beautiful landscapes. Along the way, you’ll find motorcycle-friendly bars and shops, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ride.
42. Utah Scenic Byway 12 (Utah / 123 miles)
Utah Scenic Byway 12 (UT 12), also known as the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, is a 123-mile route that connects some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the U.S. This route takes you through state parks, including Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef, as well as the stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and the lush Dixie National Forest.
43. Skyline Drive (Virginia / 105 miles)
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile ride through Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, beginning near the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This national parkway follows mountain ridges and offers stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.
44. Back of the Dragon (Virginia / 32 miles)
VA 16, also known as Back of the Dragon, stretches 32 miles from Marion to Tazewell in Virginia. This north-south route crosses three mountains and has a rolling humpbacked character that adds a unique twist to the ride. With over 400 curves, it’s a thrilling journey for motorcyclists looking for challenging roads and stunning mountain views.
45. Vermont Route 100 (Vermont / 217 miles)
Vermont Route 100 (VT 100) stretches 217 miles from Massachusetts up to the Canadian border. This scenic route runs parallel to the Green Mountains and takes you through lush woodlands, peaceful pristine farmland, and charming villages.
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46. North Cascades Scenic Highway (Washington / 140 miles)
The North Cascades Scenic Highway (WA 20) is a 140-mile stretch through the stunning Cascades Loop in Washington. This route is a paradise for motorcyclists, featuring old-growth forests, beautiful alpine lakes, and awe-inspiring cascading waterfalls. As you ride, you’ll encounter glaciers and rugged mountain scenery, making it a perfect road for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.
47. Door County Coastal Byway (Wisconsin / 66 miles)
The Door County Coastal Byway in Wisconsin is a 66-mile scenic loop that takes riders along the Door Peninsula. This route offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and the dramatic Niagara Escarpment bluffs. Along the way, you’ll pass through quaint shore-side towns and villages, making it a perfect ride for anyone who enjoys a relaxing yet picturesque journey.
48. Coal Heritage Trail (West Virginia / 97 miles)
The Coal Heritage Trail in West Virginia is a 97-mile National Scenic Byway that takes riders through the heart of the state’s historic coal country. This route offers a mix of twisty roads over ridges and easy valley riding, providing an exciting yet scenic ride. As you pass through small towns, you’ll get a glimpse of the region’s rich history, with the New River Gorge Bridge being one of the major highlights.
49. U.S. Route 33 in West Virginia (West Virginia / 248 miles)
U.S. Route 33 in West Virginia is one of the highest-rated motorcycle roads in the Mountain State, stretching 248 miles through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. The route passes through both George Washington and Monongahela national forests, offering motorcyclists stunning views of lush forests and rugged terrain. As you travel through this scenic ride, you’ll also experience the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley.
50. Beartooth Highway (Wyoming, Montana / 69 miles)
The Beartooth Highway, stretching 69 miles between Wyoming and Montana, is a breathtaking ride that takes you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the U.S. This route summits the 10,947-foot Bearfoot Pass, offering riders an exciting and challenging ride with spectacular views. Charles Kuralt once called it the most scenic highway in America, and it certainly lives up to that reputation with winding roads and jaw-dropping vistas.
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