Top motorcycle destinations…..So here’s the thing: I’ve always been kind of a wanderer. Not in the poetic “Kerouac soul-searching” way—more like the “I got lost again but I found an amazing roadside BBQ shack so who’s really winning?” way.
Anyway, I hit the road a lot. And if there’s one thing that never gets old, it’s hunting down top motorcycle destinations that make you feel like a main character in some cinematic road movie—minus the dramatic slow-mo explosions. (Though I did once blow a tire near Moab, so… close enough.)
If you’re planning your next two-wheeled escape in 2025, buckle that helmet because I’ve got opinions—and probably a few emotional tangents—about the most epic motorcycle rides across the U.S. this year.
🛣️ 1. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
Oh man. This one? Chef’s kiss.
I rode it last fall, during peak foliage season, and honestly—I almost forgot to breathe. You know when a view is so ridiculous you just wanna punch the sky? That.
Why it rocks:
- 469 miles of twisties, elevation changes, and “pull over and stare” scenery
- No commercial traffic (YES, thank you universe)
- Every turn feels like a Bob Ross painting come to life
Pro tip: Stop at Mabry Mill. Eat the pancakes. Just do it.
🌵 2. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
A.k.a. Highway 1. A.k.a. That road where you yell “HOLY CRAP” every five minutes.
I did this one solo in late spring and let me tell you—there’s nothing quite like riding along the edge of a cliff with ocean spray on your visor and sea lions yelling at you from a rock below.
Why it’s iconic:
- Epic coastal views (obviously)
- Bixby Bridge feels like a movie set
- Pit stops include Big Sur, Santa Cruz, and fancy coffee
Random memory: I stopped for gas and a seagull tried to steal my sandwich. Still mad.
🏜️ 3. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
Okay, this one’s kind of underrated but should not be missed.
You ever ride through terrain that looks like Mars had a baby with a western movie set? That’s Byway 12.
Why you’ll love it:
- Red rock canyons, pine forests, random cows on the road
- Switchbacks that feel like roller coasters
- Tiny towns with oddly good pie
I got stuck behind a slow-moving RV caravan and STILL had the best ride of my life. That’s saying something.
🏞️ 4. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
I cried on this ride. Not, like, full sobbing. Just a tiny tear under the visor.
It’s that good.
Stats:
- 68 miles long
- Elevation: over 10,000 feet
- Weather: unpredictable like my ex
Best part: The moment you hit the summit and the world just opens up like BOOM. Snow-capped peaks, endless sky, and you suddenly understand what country songs are whining about.
Bring layers. And snacks. And a second pair of socks. Trust me.
🎢 5. Tail of the Dragon (North Carolina/Tennessee)
I mean, duh.
318 curves in 11 miles. Yes, it’s as insane as it sounds. Yes, your shoulders will be sore. No, you should not try to be a hero on your first ride.
My advice: Ride it early in the morning or mid-week to avoid the… let’s call them “overly ambitious” speed demons.
Also, stop at Deals Gap and get the obligatory photo. Because if you don’t post it, did it even happen?
🌲 6. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Sounds like a mythical place. And honestly? Kinda feels like one.
It’s tucked inside Glacier National Park and only open during the warm months (translation: get there while you can).
Highlights:
- Jaw-dropping alpine views
- Waterfalls that just appear out of cliffs like, “Hey.”
- Hairpin turns that make you question physics
I saw mountain goats, got hailed on, and still didn’t want the ride to end.
🌉 7. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
If Colorado had a mixtape, this would be the lead track.
It loops through the Rockies with stops in cool old mining towns like Durango, Silverton, and Telluride—aka the land of fancy hot chocolate and equally fancy beards.
Bonus: The “Million Dollar Highway” portion. Not sure if it costs a million or feels like a million-dollar view. Probably both.
🌾 8. Flint Hills Scenic Byway (Kansas)
Okay, okay—Kansas? Hear me out.
The Flint Hills are like the Bob Ross background you never paid attention to in middle school. Rolling prairie, subtle curves, and a weirdly relaxing vibe.
I rode this after three days of twisty mountain roads and it felt like a warm bath for my brain.
Also: No traffic. No stress. No distractions—unless you count cows, and honestly? Mood.
🚦 9. Route 66 (Do Any Part of It)
I mean… it’s Route freaking 66.
Pick any stretch. Doesn’t matter. You’ll find weird diners, vintage signs, odd roadside museums, and some of the most delightfully weird Americana ever created.
I once saw a giant rocking chair. Just sitting there. No explanation.
I was like, “Same.”
Suggested stretch: Arizona into New Mexico. Great riding, dramatic desert skies, and probably a few ghost towns.
🏁 Bonus Round: My Random Favorites about top motorcycle destinations
Because I can’t help myself…
- Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway (Arkansas): twisty, quiet, and weirdly romantic
- Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire): Fall foliage? You’ll cry.
- Big Bend National Park (Texas): Heatstroke danger = high, beauty level = higher
- The Lolo Pass (Idaho): 99 miles of curves and trees that whisper secrets
🧳 Quick Tips Before You Ride and top motorcycle destinations
Because adventure is fun. Being stranded in flip-flops is not.
- Check the weather. Like, really check it.
- Book places early if you’re going during peak seasons (especially Glacier & Colorado).
- Layer like your grandma told you. It’s 80 degrees until it isn’t.
- Don’t forget sunscreen. Helmet tan lines are real, and they are not cute.
- Pack extra socks. You know the drill.
🛠 Helpful Links to Tinker With:
- Roadtrippers – Plot weird and wonderful stops
- MotorcycleRoads.com – For finding that secret back road locals don’t tell you about
