Getting ready to plan out your next motorcycle adventure? The US has plenty to explore. You’ve likely traveled locally and maybe even across the country, but there are a lot of nooks and crannies that go unnoticed. Here are five scenic roadways to explore by bike that are well worth the trip.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway extends from Virginia into North Carolina. At 469 miles long, there’s a lot to explore, including the focal point: Cumberland Knob. The breathtaking scenery is perfect for both driver and rider, and there are plenty of stops and extra routes to take along the way.
The views from Waynesboro start you off. Enjoy the meandering parkway as the Blue Ridge Mountains and plateaus of the Appalachian Highlands connect. Check out destinations like Luray Caverns and the Shenandoah Caverns, offering a refreshing break when you need one. Wildlife is in abundance, including black bear and hawk migrations, giving you an added visual treat.
2. Beartooth Highway
Explore the wild side of Yellowstone on the Beartooth Highway. Your memorable biking experience begins in southwest Montana and ends up right at the door of Yellowstone National Park.
The cool part about taking a trip down Beartooth is the distinct ecosystem that resides there. If you’re looking for a remote forest landscape dotted with alpine plateaus and glacial lakes, the views won’t disappoint. The area is rugged, but there are plenty of places to camp and stay along the way. It’s perfect for the biker and outdoor enthusiast!
3. Going-To-The-Sun Road
In the heart of Glacier National Park in Montana, Going-To-The-Sun Road is the perfect getaway for the motorcycle lover who enjoys a challenge. This is an intense scenic route and has everything a remote wilderness trail should have:
- Guided tours
- An abundance of wildlife
- Glaciers and waterfalls
- Mountain passes and deep valleys
There are plenty of rest stops along the way as well as campgrounds. Going-To-The-Sun Road has a lot of ebb and flow to it, but is truly a bucket list experience. Watch out for the mountain goats and bighorn sheep that call the area home.
4. Northwest Passage Scenic Byway
Idaho’s longest byway, the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway, is a memorable motorcycle route that offers a historical experience. Ride through the exact route that Lewis and Clark took and enjoy the flawless natural beauty along the way. Check out things like:
- The distinct Tsceminicum sculpture
- Highlighted Lewis and Clark stopping points
- Hells Gate State Park
- Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center
For the history buff and heritage lover, this is the perfect motorcycle trip.
5. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
If a visual masterpiece is something you’ve been in search of on the road, this one will blow everything else out of the water. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah is truly a one-of-a-kind experience!
On your bike, wind through the back roads surrounding the sedimentary erosion of animals, minerals and vegetables 200 million years in the making. Explore the outskirts of the Grand Staircase via two wheels and rest easy in the cozy cabins at the base. Then get out and enjoy the area on foot.
There are many scenic roadways that are perfect experienced both on and off the bike. Get your map out and dart off to a few locations. The open road awaits you!
