5 of the Most Difficult Motorcycle Routes to Master Around the U.S.
Getting on a motorcycle and hitting the open road is among the greatest reasons to ride, and many have a stretch of highway that is a particular favorite. While some might offer a leisurely roll through gentle hills and valleys, others look forward to roads with twists, turns, and surprises beyond each bend. For the rider looking for a new challenge or something fun to experience on your bike, Cycle Trader has five of the most difficult routes to master in the U.S.
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1. Tail of the Dragon
Traversing through the Great Smoky Mountains of both North Carolina and Tennessee, the Tail of the Dragon offers riders an impressive 318 curves over just 11 miles of road. This stretch of highway along US Route 129 is a hotspot for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a challenging ride and for thrill seekers who love tight turns and elevation changes.
Surrounded by the lush forests and picturesque rivers along the mountain route, riders can stop off at Deal’s Gap Motorcycle Resort to grab lunch and enjoy the company of fellow riders. Make sure you pay a visit to The Same Tree surrounded by parts of crashed bikes from riders who took on the twists of the Tail of the Dragon. And don’t forget to get a picture at the “318 Curves in 11 Miles” sign, a fun roadside attraction to commemorate your trip along this challenging route.
2. The Twisted Sisters
If you’re looking for a route that lives up to its name, look no further than the Twisted Sisters in the heart of the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Also known as the Three Sisters, this exhilarating ride is made up of three farm-to-market roads: FM’s 335, 336, and 337. Located in an inverted mountain range, this area offers riders a system of steep hills, open canyons, and lazy rivers. While the roads are generally in good condition, riders can expect sharp turns and should be mindful of loose gravel. Although traffic is lighter, riders need to also keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. Because options for fuel are also few and far between, it’s recommended that you gas up in Madina or Leaky before hitting the route.
Mid-April is the perfect time to visit the Twisted Sisters if you want to experience the fields of Texas Bluebonnets along the landscape. And while you’re visiting the Texas Hill Country, don’t forget to pay a visit to the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum for some ice cream and to see bikes dating as far back as 1910, including a 1954 AJS 7R.
3. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is home to a 10-mile canyon along the border of eastern Oregon and western Idaho, and is part of the Hells Canyon Recreation Area, which also includes the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. With the deepest gorge in the U.S., reaching a depth of 7,993 feet, this canyon created by the Snake River is actually deeper than the Grand Canyon. While much of Hells Canyon is inaccessible, the 218-mile Scenic Byway that’s designated an All-American Road offers bikers one of the most beautiful rides in the western U.S.
Traversing the Wallowa Mountains, riders who are looking to experience the route through the mountain passes can complete the loop in as fast as five hours, but many dedicate two days to the trip so that they can enjoy the many attractions along the way as they travel through the eleven cities that make up the byway.
4. Beartooth Highway
Beartooth Highway through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness is celebrated as one of the most beautiful drives in America. Passing through Montana and Wyoming, this breathtaking route known as an All-American Road offers hairpin turns and elevation changes. Riders make their way along a 68-mile stretch of Route 212, connecting the cities of Red Lodge and Cooke City. Along this winding mountain ride, you’ll be surrounded by several national forests, experience views of the tallest mountain peaks in Montana, and pass by several alpine lakes.
Ending at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this ride takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country and provides a challenging climb with ample rewards.
5. San Juan Skyway
Looping and winding through the stunning San Juan Mountains of Colorado, this scenic, 236-mile route passes through historic towns like Durango, Telluride, and Ouray. San Juan Skyway offers riders a mix of bending roads, high mountain passes, and breathtaking vistas. Steep drop-offs without guardrails add to the challenge of this route, which is why it’s best to take things under the best possible weather conditions with ample visibility. That being said, you’ll get some of the most incredible views along the ride, and the climb through areas like Coal Bank Pass will provide a challenge while you take in the beautiful natural backdrop.
While traversing the Skyway, don’t forget to stop off at one of the many historic hotspots like the Old Hundred Gold Mine, or relax in the natural hot springs in Ouray.
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If you’re looking for a route that offers you a challenge but rewards you with the views of a lifetime, give one of these rides a try. As always, prioritize safety and riding experience to eliminate risks on the road. When you’re ready to roll, visit Cycle Trader for the nation’s largest selection of new and used motorcycles for sale.
Anna Cecilia Tozzi
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