Take a Motorcycle Road Trip Through the Stunning Landscapes of the North Western US
Are you looking for the ultimate riding destination in the North Western United States? Look no further! From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the Snake River Scenic Byway in Wyoming, this region is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic motorcycle routes in the country.
Whether you're looking to enjoy the beauty of the coastline or explore the rugged landscape of the mountains, the North Western United States has a route for you.
In this article, we'll take a look at the top 8 motorcycle destinations in the North Western United States, each offering its own unique riding experience. Get ready to hit the road and discover the beauty of the North Western US.
Which 8 Road Routes do we recommended?
The North Western United States is home to some of the best motorcycle routes in the country. From the rugged coastline of Oregon to the soaring mountain passes of Montana, this region has something for every type of rider.
Here are some of the best motorcycle routes in the North Western region:
- The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California
- The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina
- The Beartooth Highway in Montana
- The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana
- The Oregon Coast Highway (US 101)
- The White Rim Road in Utah
- The Snake River Scenic Byway in Wyoming
- The Lolo Motorway in Montana and Idaho
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California
Big Sur Bridge California Ocean Road
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California is a dream come true for any motorcycle enthusiast. This iconic highway stretches along the California coast from Los Angeles to San Francisco, passing through some of the most beautiful coastal towns and landscapes in the state.
As you ride along the PCH, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. You'll pass through charming towns like Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Half Moon Bay, each offering its own unique charm and character. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore the many state parks and beaches that dot the route.
One of the highlights of the PCH is Big Sur, a stretch of coastline known for its rugged beauty and stunning views. As you ride through this area, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the ocean and the rocky coastline. You'll also have the opportunity to stop and enjoy the many hiking trails and scenic overlooks that dot the route.
Another must-see stop along the PCH is the Bixby Bridge, a iconic landmark that spans a deep gorge in the coastal mountains. The bridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography.
The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina
Linn Cove Viaduct along Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. This 469-mile long parkway runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its stunning vistas and winding roads.
As you ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. The parkway is dotted with scenic overlooks and pull-offs, providing the perfect opportunity to stop and take in the views. You'll also have the chance to explore the many hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Linn Cove Viaduct, a iconic bridge that winds its way along the side of Grandfather Mountain. The viaduct offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography.
Another must-see stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Roanoke Valley Overlook, which offers stunning views of the Roanoke Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see for miles in every direction, making it the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Overall, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination for motorcycle riders looking to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. With its stunning vistas and winding roads, this iconic parkway offers a riding experience like no other.
The Beartooth Highway in Montana
The Beartooth Highway in Montana is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to explore the beauty of the mountains. This 68-mile stretch of road takes riders through the Beartooth Mountains and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the country.
As you ride along the Beartooth Highway, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The road winds its way through the mountains, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore the many hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the Beartooth Highway is the vista at the top of the pass, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see for miles in every direction, making it the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Another must-see stop along the Beartooth Highway is the Top of the World Store, a small shop located at the top of the pass. The store offers a variety of souvenirs and snacks, making it the perfect spot to rest and refuel before continuing on your journey.
Overall, the Beartooth Highway is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast visiting Montana. With its winding roads and breathtaking views, this iconic road offers a riding experience like no other.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road - Weeping Wall (Image Source: https://live.staticflickr.com/7365/16414463982_1b7e3b1fdb_b.jpg)
The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to explore the beauty of Glacier National Park. This 52-mile long road takes riders through the park and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country.
As you ride along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The road winds its way through the mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore the many hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is the vista at the top of the pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see for miles in every direction, making it the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Another must-see stop along the Going-to-the-Sun Road is the Many Glacier Hotel, a historic hotel located in the heart of the park. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant and gift shop, making it the perfect spot to rest and refuel before continuing on your journey.
Overall, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a popular destination for motorcycle riders and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the North Western United States.
The Oregon Coast Highway (US 101)
Highway 101 on Oregon Coast, several miles north of Florence, OR
The Oregon Coast Highway (US 101) is a 363-mile long highway that runs along the Oregon coast and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
As you ride along the Oregon Coast Highway, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged coastline. The highway passes through charming towns like Newport, Lincoln City, and Cannon Beach, each offering its own unique charm and character. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore the many state parks and beaches that dot the route.
One of the highlights of the Oregon Coast Highway is Cape Kiwanda, a scenic spot located just south of Pacific City. Here you'll find a beautiful sandy beach and a towering sand dune that is a popular spot for sandboarding. The area is also home to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, surfing, and hiking.
Another must-see stop along the Oregon Coast Highway is the Tillamook Cheese Factory, a popular tourist destination located in Tillamook. Here you can take a tour of the factory, sample a variety of cheeses, and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Overall, the Oregon Coast Highway is a popular destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the coastline. With its stunning views and charming coastal towns, this iconic highway offers a riding experience like no other.
The White Rim Road in Utah
White Rim Road in Utah
The White Rim Road in Utah is a 100-mile long road takes riders through the heart of Canyonlands National Park and offers stunning views of the park's rugged landscape.
As you ride along the White Rim Road, you're treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The road winds its way through the park, offering panoramic views of the towering red rock cliffs and deep canyons that make Canyonlands National Park famous. There is also the opportunity to stop and explore the hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the White Rim Road is the vista at the top of the Shafer Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you can see for miles in every direction, making it a great spot to take a break.
Another must-see stop along the White Rim Road is the Green River Overlook, which offers stunning views of the Green River and the surrounding landscape. The overlook is a popular spot for photography.
The Snake River Scenic Byway in Wyoming
Snake River Scenic Byway in Wyoming
The Snake River Scenic Byway in Wyoming is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to explore the beauty of the mountains. This 89-mile long road takes riders along the Snake River and offers stunning views of the Grand Tetons.
As you ride along the Snake River Scenic Byway, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The road winds its way along the Snake River, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. You'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore the many hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the Snake River Scenic Byway is the vista at the top of Teton Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Grand Tetons and the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see for miles in every direction, making it the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Another must-see stop along the Snake River Scenic Byway is the Jackson Lake Dam, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The dam is a popular spot for photography and is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the mountains.
Overall, the Snake River Scenic Byway is a popular destination for motorcycle riders looking to enjoy the beauty of the mountains. With its stunning views and winding roads, this iconic byway offers a riding experience like no other. So pack your bags, hop on your motorcycle, and hit the road on the Snake River Scenic Byway – you won't be disappointed!
The Lolo Motorway in Montana and Idaho
Magruder Corridor Road
The Lolo Motorway in Montana and Idaho is a 125-mile long road takes riders through the Bitterroot Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The road winds its way through the Bitterroot Mountains, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. There is opportunities along the way to stop and explore hiking trails and picnicking areas that are found along the route.
One of the highlights of the Lolo Motorway is the vista at the top of Lolo Pass, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see for miles in every direction. It's a great spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
Another must-see stop along the Lolo Motorway is the Lolo Hot Springs Resort, a popular destination located just off the road. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including hot springs pools and a restaurant. Rest and refuel before continuing on your journey.
Overall, the Lolo Motorway is a popular destination for motorcycle riders. This iconic road offers a riding experience like no other.
Recommended motorcycle-friendly accommodations along the routes
Whether you're looking for a hotel, motel, or cabin rental, you can find a motorcycle-friendly place to stay overnight. The options range from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, and some include amenities such as secure motorcycle parking, bike washing stations, and on-site repair services.
Remember to plan ahead and book in advance to ensure you have a place to rest and recharge during your ride.
The best stops for food and drink along the way
West Glacier Mercantile - Montana
One of the joys of long distance motorcycle riding is discovering new and interesting places.
An option is to research local restaurants and bars in advance and plan your stops accordingly. This can help you discover hidden gems and local favorites that you might not have found otherwise. Ask locals or other riders for recommendations, as they often have great insights into the best places to eat and drink.
In addition to seeking out local establishments, it's also a good idea to bring along some non-perishable snacks and drinks for the road. This can help you stay fueled and hydrated during long stretches of riding. It also gives you something to eat in case you can't find a suitable stop at any point.
Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal or just a quick drink, there are plenty of options for food and drink on a long distance motorcycle ride.
The cultural and historical significance of the areas visited on the motorcycle routes
Historical sites along a planned route offer unique and enlightening experiences. It's not hard to include in your plan, visits to areas with rich cultural and historical backgrounds.
For example, if you're riding along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, you have the opportunity to visit quaint coastal towns with rich histories dating back to the early days of the state. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, you can explore the cultural heritage of the Appalachian Mountains and learn about the region's rich history and traditions.
No matter where you're riding, there's always something new and interesting to discover.
Activities and attractions - hiking, fishing, and sightseeing.
A long distance motorcycle ride is more than just a way to get from point A to point B – it's also an opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities and attractions along the way. Depending on your route and interests, you may have the chance to enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and sightseeing.
For example, if you're riding along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, you may have the opportunity to stop and enjoy the beautiful beaches, go fishing in the ocean, or take a hike in the nearby hills. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, you can explore the region's natural beauty and enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking in the stunning mountain scenery.
No matter where you're riding, there's always something new and interesting to discover. So take the time to explore and enjoy the various activities and attractions that can be found along your route – you'll be glad you did!
In Conclusion
The North Western United States offers a wide range of exciting and beautiful motorcycle routes for riders to explore. From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, there are many stunning and diverse routes to choose from.
When preparing for a long distance motorcycle ride, it's important to consider factors such as physical and mental preparation, vehicle maintenance, planning and packing, and safety. By taking the time to properly prepare, you'll be better equipped to handle the demands of long distance riding and fully enjoy the rewards of hitting the open road on your motorcycle.
Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to discover a variety of activities and attractions, including hiking, fishing, and sightseeing. You'll also find a range of motorcycle-friendly accommodations to help you rest and recharge along the way. So rev your engines and hit the road – you won't be disappointed!
