There’s some special about traversing the country by motorcycle. Unlike a car, plane, or train, riding a motorcycle across the United States evokes a feeling of being completely free. Whether you are looking for a great weekend ride or planning you cross-country adventure, there are some rides you just don’t want to miss.
There are plenty of great places to ride in the US, but if you are looking for the very best that North America has to offer to you and your motorcycle, look no further. These are the top three motorcycle rides in the US, ranked by the scenery and the road itself.
3. Needles Highway in Black Hills, South Dakota This highway has, by far, the best scenery in the United States. Names for the needle-like mountains that surround the road like an ancient stone wall, the highway has plenty of great vistas. The forests that are sprinkled among the needles is green and lush, and plays home to hundreds of animals, many of whom can be seen from the road. Right from your bike, you can see bison, deer, antelope, and even the occasional wolf. No need to worry they know the dangers of the road and will give you your space. Besides the wildlife and the majestic granite needles, the road itself has two granite tunnels, created by dynamite, to take your right through the belly of the mountains.
2. Tail of the Dragon in Deal’s Gap, North Carolina This road is the self-proclaimed best motorcycle road, and for good reason. It touts eleven miles of curves, ridges, and valleys that make for one of the most exciting rides in the States. Plus, it’s got a cool name. The Tail of the Dragon takes you along a national park, and the deep, North Carolina woods creep up close to the road, making it a refreshing, as well as exhilarating ride. If you are looking for a little more intrigue, you can always check out the Tree of Shame; a collection of bike parts from those who were not equipped to handle the twists of the road, hung on a tree.
1. The Twisted Sisters in Texas It is difficult to pick just one ride in the US to hold the title of best motorcycle ride, but if you have ever ridden all 131 miles of this wicked highway, you know why it’s the best of the best. Though most of Texas is comprised straight roads across flat plains, the Twisted Sisters twist along rivers, through mountains, and give riders a great view of authentic cowboy-esque cattle ranches. The rivers are stocked with plenty of delicious fish if you want to skip the roadhouse. You might even spot an alligator while you’re picking up your dinner! The real draw of this road, however, is the meandering, twisty nature of the asphalt and the all-American views.
