Three Best U.S. Routes by Motorcycle
“A motorcycle is not just a machine. It’s an escape, a rebellion, a rhythm of your soul.” – Unknown
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is one of America’s most iconic motorcycle routes, tracing the edge of the California coastline with sweeping ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and a sense of freedom that’s hard to match. Stretching from Malibu to Monterey, this legendary stretch of road delivers a cinematic ride through coastal towns, redwood forests, and rugged shorelines. Riders lean into smooth curves overlooking the Pacific, with must-see stops like McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and the artsy village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Every mile hums with the rhythm of the waves and the pulse of the engine, making this ride not just a route—but a journey into California’s soul. Whether you're chasing the horizon or just clearing your mind, the Pacific Coast Highway is a road that speaks to the rider’s spirit.
Route: Malibu → Big Sur → Monterey
Distance: ~140 miles
Ride Time: ~5 hours (plus stops)
Highlights:
Sweeping coastal cliffs and ocean vistas along Highway 1
Stops at Bixby Bridge, Nepenthe, McWay Falls
Charming towns like Carmel, Big Sur, and Cambria
Rider Tips:
Ride northbound for ocean views on your right
Fog common in mornings—aim for a mid-morning start
Fuel up before Big Sur; limited stations
Part of Highway 1 is currently closed year-round between Monterey and Big Sur due to ongoing geological instability, forcing Google Maps to reroute via inland highways like CA‑46 and US‑101 for a complete Malibu to Monterey run.
2. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)
The Beartooth Highway (US 212) is a legendary high-mountain pass that slices through the wild heart of Montana and Wyoming, often hailed as “America’s most beautiful highway.” Winding between Red Lodge, MT and Cooke City, MT, just outside Yellowstone’s northeast entrance, the route climbs to a breathtaking 10,947 feet at Beartooth Pass. With every twist and hairpin, the scenery transforms—alpine lakes, snow-dusted peaks, sweeping valleys, and endless sky. For motorcyclists, it’s a technical and thrilling ride, demanding focus while rewarding with surreal views. The road’s ever-changing weather, elevation shifts, and sense of raw remoteness make it feel like a journey to the edge of the world. It’s not just a ride—it’s a rite of passage for any serious rider chasing beauty at altitude.
Route: Red Lodge, MT → Beartooth Pass → Cooke City, MT
Distance: ~68 miles
Ride Time: ~2.5 hours (loop options available)
Highlights:
Often called “America’s most beautiful road”
Beartooth Pass (10,947 ft) offers sweeping alpine views
Connects to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone
Photos: Visit Gardiner Montana
Rider Tips:
Best in late June to early September (seasonal snow closure)
Bring layers; elevation = cold even in summer
Watch for wildlife, especially bighorn sheep and bears
3. The Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee/North Carolina)
The Tail of the Dragon is one of the most infamous motorcycle roads in the United States—a serpentine stretch of US 129 that twists through the Appalachian borderlands between Tennessee and North Carolina. In just 11 miles, it packs a staggering 318 curves, each one testing a rider’s precision, focus, and nerve. Flanked by dense forest and steep mountain terrain, the Dragon offers no cross streets, no driveways, and no room for error—just pure, uninterrupted pavement. It's a pilgrimage route for motorcyclists and sport car enthusiasts alike, drawing thrill-seekers from around the world. From iconic landmarks like the Tree of Shame to the camaraderie at Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, the Tail of the Dragon isn’t just a road—it’s a challenge, a community, and a badge of honor for those who conquer it.
Route: Deals Gap → Tabcat Bridge (US-129)
Distance: 11 miles (318 curves)
Ride Time: ~30 minutes (pair with other roads for a full-day ride)
Highlights:
America’s twistiest stretch of pavement
Loop options include Cherohala Skyway, Foothills Parkway, and Moonshiner 28
Notable rider landmarks like the Tail of the Dragon Store and the Tree of Shame
Rider Tips:
Ride early to avoid crowds and traffic
Stay within your skill level—this road is unforgiving
Ideal for combining with picnic or scenic detours nearby
