Epic Harley Routes in the USA — Beyond Route 66
Route 66 gets all the attention, but America's best Harley riding roads are scattered across the continent. Here are the routes every American rider should ride.
America's Greatest Harley Roads
Route 66 is iconic, and every Harley rider should ride at least part of it. But America's road network is 4 million miles long, and some of the greatest motorcycle roads on earth are hiding across 50 states.
Pacific Coast Highway (US-1) — California
The Pacific Coast Highway between Los Angeles and San Francisco is America's most spectacular coastal road. The Big Sur section — between San Simeon and Carmel — clings to cliffs above the Pacific and achieves something close to perfection.
Key stops: Morro Bay, San Simeon, Big Sur, Pfeiffer Beach, Carmel, Monterey.
Allow three days for the full LA-SF route. Riding north from LA means the cliffs are on your left and the ocean in full view.
Blue Ridge Parkway — Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway runs 469 miles along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains. No traffic lights, no commercial vehicles, no billboards — just ridge-top road through ancient forest.
The Parkway maintains a 45 mph speed limit throughout. This is not a road for covering miles; it is a road for savouring them.
Best in October — fall foliage on the Appalachians is extraordinary.
The Tail of the Dragon — US-129
Eleven miles. 318 curves. The Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap is the most concentrated motorcycle road in America — a technical challenge that attracts riders from across the country.
Going-to-the-Sun Road — Glacier National Park, Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (2,026 metres) through Glacier National Park — open approximately June to mid-October.
Finding Riding Companions
Whatever state you are riding in, there is a local H.O.G. chapter that knows the best roads. Use Global Rider's chapter directory to find chapters along your route.
America's roads reward curiosity. Get off the interstate and go looking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best motorcycle road in the USA?
The Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur and the Blue Ridge Parkway are regularly cited as America's greatest riding roads. The Tail of the Dragon is the most technically celebrated.
When is the best time to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway?
October for fall foliage (book accommodation months ahead), or May-June for spring flowers and lower traffic.
Is the Tail of the Dragon suitable for Harley touring bikes?
Manageable but challenging on larger touring bikes. Approach at a steady pace and be wary of low ground clearance on tight corners.
How do I find H.O.G. chapters along a US road trip route?
Use Global Rider's chapter directory, searchable by US state and region. Most chapters are happy to meet visiting riders and share local route knowledge.