Picture this: you’re out on a gorgeous sunny, Florida summer day with not a cloud in the sky. The temperature is absolutely perfect; not too humid, has a little heat to it but there’s a cool breeze. Any road, any route is one that must be ridden and they’re calling your name! It’s time to explore routes outside of Florida.
Have you ever been to North Carolina, Canada, or California? All three of these destinations are included in the “top five” bucket list motorcycle rides on ridenow.com.
First on the list is the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. This route is 469 miles of gorgeous land that stretches from the Great Smoky Mountains to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It is known for its remarkable views and its long, winding curves that go through various tunnels and across the contours of the mountainous land. Not only are the views a plus, but there is so much to do along the trail! There are so many historic sites, hiking trails, and hidden oasis’ that are to be found along the way.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Second place is won by the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada. This trail stretches 185 miles and goes through Cape Breton Island and its National Highland Parks. There is a gorgeous river of road that works its way through the highs and lows of the mountains. Also present is a strong biker community who provide tips and tricks and places to stay and see once you’re there.
Cabot Trail Motorcycle Ride
California’s State Route 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway) takes the cake for third place. This trail is 655 miles long and runs through Mendocino County a little north of San Francisco to Dana Point in Orange County hitting iconic places like San Fran, SoCal, Monterey Bay, and Big Sur. An absolutely iconic adventure!
Pacific Coast Highway
On the other coast, we have New England’s Coastal Route 1 which takes the spot at number 4. A 526-mile drive starts in Plymouth, New Hampshire and makes its way all the way to Fort Kent in Maine. You’ll follow the gorgeous coastline of Maine and New Hampshire seeing shipwrecks, historic homes, and iconic “lobstah”.
New England’s Coastal Route
Last but least, we have the great Beartooth Highway that makes its way through parts of Montana and Wyoming. The peak (in my opinion and literally) is crossing the Beartooth pass which sits at a high 10,947 feet above sea level. As a native Floridian, I would definitely geek out over those views and also need to adjust to altitude, but it would be SO worth it.
Beartooth Highway
There are so, so many trails and possibilities out there for adventures! It’s the hidden gems that are the best and most memorable. If you ever check any of these out, or you have ridden them before, let us know what you loved most and any advice for future riders!
