Exploring Scenic Motorcycle Routes in the USA: Must-Visit Destinations for Adventure Seekers

For motorcycle enthusiasts, the United States offers a vast and diverse landscape of scenic routes that are perfect for those who crave adventure. From winding mountain roads to expansive coastal highways, there’s a route for every kind of rider. Whether you’re chasing mountain vistas or riding alongside rugged coastlines, the open road in the U.S. is your playground. Here are some must-visit scenic motorcycle routes in the USA.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is arguably one of the most iconic and scenic motorcycle routes in the country. Running along California’s coastline, this highway provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky cliffs, and serene beaches. The route spans from Dana Point in Southern California all the way to the northern town of Leggett, covering over 600 miles. One of the most picturesque sections is through Big Sur, where the road clings to cliffs and offers panoramic ocean views. With sweeping curves and a mixture of coastal and mountain scenery, it’s a must-ride for anyone who loves the open road.

Highlights:

- Big Sur’s dramatic coastline

- Bixby Creek Bridge

- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

- Santa Monica Pier

2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

Known as "America’s Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This ride is perfect for those who want to experience a blend of stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, and lush forests. The parkway is also known for its smooth, curving roads, making it a joy for motorcyclists. In the fall, the scenery becomes even more magical as the foliage bursts into vibrant autumn colors.

Highlights:

- Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

- Linn Cove Viaduct

- Pisgah National Forest

- Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern U.S.

3. Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee/North Carolina)

For thrill-seekers looking for a challenging ride, the **Tail of the Dragon** is the ultimate destination. Located on U.S. Route 129, this 11-mile stretch along the Tennessee-North Carolina border is famous for its 318 curves. The road winds through the Smoky Mountains, offering tight hairpin turns, steep drop-offs, and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. This route is not for the faint of heart but is a bucket-list ride for experienced motorcyclists.

Highlights:

- Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort (start or end point for the ride)

- Fontana Dam

- Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Located in the heart of Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a jaw-dropping ride that offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The 50-mile route climbs up and over the Continental Divide, offering panoramic views of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. As you ride along the winding road, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks and the wild beauty of Montana’s wilderness. Keep in mind that this road is only open during the summer months due to heavy snow the rest of the year.

Highlights:

- Logan Pass

- Saint Mary Lake

- Jackson Glacier Overlook

- Wild Goose Island

5. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)

Dubbed “the most beautiful drive in America” by many, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile stretch of U.S. Route 212 that takes riders through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the country. The road begins near the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and winds its way through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains. With its switchbacks, steep climbs, and high-altitude passes (nearly 11,000 feet at the summit), this route offers a thrilling ride along with breathtaking views of alpine lakes, meadows, and snow-capped peaks.

Highlights:

- Beartooth Pass (nearly 11,000 feet above sea level)

- Custer National Forest

- Red Lodge, a charming town perfect for a stop

- Yellowstone National Park

6. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)

For a more relaxed and historically rich ride, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic 444-mile route that stretches from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. This parkway follows an ancient Native American trail and passes through lush forests, rolling hills, and historic landmarks. The road is well-maintained and free of commercial traffic, making it a smooth and peaceful ride for motorcyclists who prefer to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Highlights:

- Historic Civil War sites

- The sunken Old Trace at milepost 41.5

- Cypress Swamp (a perfect spot for nature lovers)

- Jackson Falls

7. Route 66 (Illinois to California)

No list of motorcycle routes would be complete without mentioning **Route 66**, the historic “Main Street of America.” While much of the original road has been replaced by modern highways, large portions still remain intact, especially in states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Riding Route 66 is less about the scenic beauty and more about the nostalgia, the quirky roadside attractions, and the sense of stepping back in time. It’s a great ride for motorcyclists who want to experience Americana and the spirit of the open road.

Highlights:

- Cadillac Ranch (Texas)

- The Wigwam Motels (Arizona and California)

- Petrified Forest National Park

- Santa Monica Pier (the official end of Route 66)

8. Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee to North Carolina)

The Cherohala Skyway is a lesser-known but equally beautiful ride that stretches for 43 miles between Tennessee and North Carolina. The route offers a peaceful and scenic ride through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests, with long, sweeping curves and elevation changes that bring you up to over 5,400 feet. It’s a great alternative to the busier Tail of the Dragon, offering equally stunning views with fewer crowds.

Highlights:

- Bald River Falls

- Santeetlah Overlook (elevation 5,390 feet)

- Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center

Conclusion

The U.S. is home to some of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from coastal cliffs to towering mountains and expansive forests. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride through history or a thrilling adventure on winding mountain roads, there’s a route that’s perfect for every rider. So gear up, hit the road, and discover the beauty of America from the seat of your motorcycle. Safe travels!