There is something truly iconic about riding a motorcycle across America. Whether it’s the wind blowing through your hair, the roar of the engine beneath you, or the amazing sights you see, it just seems magical. So, it is easy to see why many people add this experience to their Adventure Activities and Experiences Bucket List. But, where are the best motorcycle rides for your bucket list in America?

In doing our research and talking to our motorcycle riding friends, we found that there are plenty of thrilling motorcycle routes in the United States, but there are 11 specific Motorcycle rides that are bucket list worthy.

So grab your helmet, put on your riding gloves, and let’s hit the open road!

1) The Tail of the Dragon – U.S. Route 129

There is no doubt that the Tail of the Dragon is one of the top motorcycle rides in America. This is because most Gen X-ers may remember it from the movie, The Fugitive. But you may want to stock up on gear from Cycle Parts Nation before tackling the 318 wild curves over it’s 11 miles! This motorcycle ride is known to be a bit harrowing, especially near the “Tree of Shame” where you will see the remnants of former crashes.

2) The Beartooth Highway – U.S. Highway 212

Ever since we read the Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig, the idea of cruising around Wyoming and Montana has intrigued us. Perhaps, that is why the Beartooth Highway has become a sort of rite of passage for many Gen X motorcyclists! In reality, the 68 mile stretch, starting in Red Lodge, Montana, offers amazing mountain views and wide open plains. To boot, you will end this bucket list motorcycle ride near the north gate of Yellowstone National Park!

3) The Pacific Coast Highway – California Route 1

At just over 655 miles long, there is no doubt that the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as the PCH, is one of the top motorcycle routes in America. But it’s the Big Sur section of the PCH that truly makes it bucket list worthy. Within these 200 miles of the entire PCH, you will be greeted with tall redwood trees, warm beaches packed with surfers, and small, fun communities with numerous local restaurants and shops. You can even see a real American castle if you stop at the former home of William Randolph Hearst.

4) The Blue Ridge Parkway

Considered America’s Favorite Drive, it is easy to see why the Blue Ridge Parkway would make the top 11 best motorcycle rides for your bucket list! The scenery alone make this 469 mile ride a dream to any outdoor lover. But this mountain motorcycle route also holds a plethora of historic civil war and cultural sites that will fit any traveler. Plus, there are tons of fun Parkway outdoor events or festivals held by many of the communities along the way. So make sure you check out the Blue Ridge Parkway Events calendar here.

Hot Tip: From surfing & hiking along the Pacific Coast Highway in California to taking an adventure motorcycle trip in Utah, WorldNomads.com covers a range of adventure activities, giving you peace of mind to get the most from your travels.

5) The Natchez Trace Parkway

Very few motorcycle routes have received national recognition, but the Natchez Trace Parkway was given the title, National Scenic Byway. Perhaps, this is because this 444 mile ride is packed with not only amazing scenery, but also sites important to America’s culture and history. Thus, you will be able to explore several amazing civil war sights, eat great southern food at countless bed and breakfasts, or even visit the ghost town of Rocky Springs, Mississippi.

6) Going to the Sun Road

“Hello Boys, I’m Baaack!” This quote was made famous in the movie The Shining. But did you know that the opening scenes of that movie showcases views from one of the most sacred motorcycle rides in America? The Going to the Sun Road is a 55 mile route that cuts right through Glacier National Park. It not only offers amazing mountain views but riding the curves and switchbacks ultimately takes you to the top of Logan’s Pass. Make sure you wear your warm weather gear from Cycle Parts Nation because even though it is only open during the summer, it can get a little chilly!

7) Coastal Route 1 in Maine

Perhaps the longest motorcycle ride for your bucket list, the Coastal Route 1 in Maine cruises some 525 miles from Portsmouth, New Hampshire all the way up to the Canadian Border. However, for most riders, the best views are found in the 150 miles from Brunswick to Machias. Along this section, you will greeted with typical New England fishing villages, amazing seafood, and beautiful lighthouses. Make sure you take some time to stop off and see the famous Nubble Lighthouse built in the late 1800s!

8) Grand Staircase – Utah’s Scenic Byway 12

Utah is an amazing state for anyone who loves the American Southwest. So, if you’re someone that enjoys that landscape, then adding the Grand Staircase to your motorcycle ride bucket list is a must. Along this ride you will pass through the Capitol Reef National Parks and the Petrified Forest State Park. This will offer you amazing views of colorful canyons, tall mesas, and historic Native American sights.

9) River Road in Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas. But the River Road may actually be one of the smaller rides to add to your motorcycle bucket list. However, this short ride offers very big views! For about 115 miles, following along the famous Rio Grande River, you will be greeted with beautiful cliffs and an assortment of colors only found in Texas. One of the biggest highlights of the route is to see the ancient lava flows.

10) Cherohala Skyway

If you are looking for a wonderful day trip to add to your motorcycle riding bucket list, then the Cherohala Skyway won’t disappoint. This 120 mile loop is filled with fantastic views as you cruise through the forests of North Carolina and Tennessee. Plus, with all the fun activities along the Tellico River, you are bound to find a reason to stop. Consider going in early fall to take in all the changing colors of the leaves.

11) Peak to Peak Highway in Colorado

With the Rocky Mountains in the background, this 60 mile ride offers amazing views to say the least. As you cross several valleys and ride through scenic meadows, you will see a plethora of animals roaming about. For an added bonus, you will zig zag your way to the top of the Continental Divide offering you breath taking views of the entire Rocky Mountain region.

So there you have it! Which of the best Motorcycle Rides is on your bucket list? Have you ever found a destination in America that you believe needs to be added to these top 11 Motorcycle Rides? Or have you ever ridden one of these bucket list rides before? Tell us all about it in the comments below & help inspire someone else’s bucket list!

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