What’s Your Dream Motorcycle Road Trip?

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There’s something about the freedom of the open road, the roar of an engine beneath you, and the endless horizon ahead that makes motorcycle road trips special. From coastal seascapes to lush mountain passes, there is a dream trip for every rider out there just waiting to be embarked on. Cycle Trader recently asked motorcycle riders on Facebook to find out what their dream routes are. Below are just a few of the responses we received.

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The Routes

Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most stunning destinations in the US. From Northern California to Washington state, this picturesque location offers riders everything from redwood forests to coastal views. There are a few noteworthy stretches of roads that are particularly popular for riders.

The Devil’s Trail, a 22-mile highway in Oregon’s Hells Canyon, offers thrill-seeking riders hundreds of twists and turns. For the biker looking for a leisurely free ride, Washington state’s 80-mile jaunt around the Klickitat Loop is the perfect ride to take in the beauty of the region.

Other notable routes to check out: Portland to Sumpter; Columbia River Highway Scenic Route; McKenzie Highway; Whidbey Island Wonder; and Spirit Lake Highway.

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

With a journey on one of the best coastal motorcycle rides in the country, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is another route on the West Coast that provides countless ocean views, winding cliffside roads, and memorable attractions along the way so you can stop and snap pictures. The 1,650-mile stretch from San Diego up to Big Sur offers absolutely stunning scenery.

You’ll want to make sure that you stop in Monterey for the scenic 17-Mile Drive and fresh seafood. As your trip takes you further north, you’ll get to experience the towering redwoods of the Avenue of the Giants. As you continue into Oregon and then Washington state, the landscapes and crisp air of the Pacific Northwest will greet you on your way to the final destination of Port Townsend, near the Canada border.

A few spots that you definitely don’t want to miss on your trip: Big Sur and Bixby Bridge; McWay Falls; 17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach; The Golden Gate Bridge; and Redwood National and State Parks.

Route 66

Made forever famous by the popular song “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66,” this iconic highway spanning from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California is a dream destination for many riders. Stretching across eight states, including Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, Route 66 offers riders plenty of attractions and historic landmarks to check out. 

Starting with the historic sign at the corner of South Michigan Avenue and Adams Street in Chicago, Route 66 is composed of three portions: the Lone Star Route, the Ozark Trail System, and the National Old Trails Road. The famous route concludes at the Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find the Route 66 sign denoting the end of the road.

There are a few stand-out roadside attractions for motorcycle riders to discover along the way, including: Cadillac Ranch; La Posada Winslow; Gateway Arch National Park; National Route 66 Museum; Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In; and the 1932 Standard Oil Gas Station.

Alaska Highway

One of the most popular states riders expressed interest in visiting is America’s Last Frontier—Alaska. Riding a motorcycle on the Alaska Highway is an unforgettable adventure through breathtaking wilderness. The 1,390-mile route from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska offers stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and rugged road conditions. The Highway has a little bit of everything to make your ride unforgettable. You’ll experience long stretches of open road, towering mountains, and crystal clear lakes. Note: Because of the distance between fuel stops, be sure to fuel up before you hit the road. 

Weather changes rapidly, bringing rain, wind, or even snow in the summer, so you’ll want to be prepared with riding gear just to be safe. While encounters with wildlife like moose, bears, and bison add to the once-in-a-lifetime experience, be safe and keep your distance. 

The best time of year to experience the Alaska Highway and avoid icy conditions is May through September. There are a few key attractions that you do not want to miss on your ride, including Kiskatinaw Bridge, Rancheria Falls, and Kluane National Park.

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Consider this a bucket list of routes to experience on your bike. From sunny coastlines to mountain passes and everything in between, the open road is waiting for you, so get out there and enjoy the ride!

Anna Cecilia Tozzi

Anna Cecilia is a freelance writer with a passion for learning new things. With over five years of experience working as the business manager for a successful custom motorcycle and auto-rebuilding business, she specializes in creating engaging content that resonates with readers who have a passion for everything on wheels. When she's not typing away, you’ll find this Jaqueline of all trades working as a personal trainer or performing with a dinner theater.

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