The western United States offers some of the most dramatic and rewarding motorcycle rides in North America. From high mountain passes in the Rockies to coastal highways overlooking the Pacific Ocean, riders can experience a wide range of landscapes and riding conditions.
Many of the region’s best routes combine sweeping curves, scenic overlooks, and long stretches of open road that make them ideal for motorcycle touring. Whether you’re planning a multi-day trip or simply looking for a memorable weekend ride, the western states offer some of the most iconic motorcycle roads in the country.
Below are several of the most notable motorcycle routes across the western United States.
Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Running through Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road is widely considered one of the most spectacular mountain drives in North America. The road climbs high into the Rocky Mountains, offering sweeping views of alpine valleys, glaciers, and rugged peaks.
With dramatic elevation changes and tight curves, the route provides a memorable riding experience for motorcyclists exploring the northern Rockies.
👉 Read the full Going-to-the-Sun Road Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Beartooth Highway (Montana / Wyoming)
The Beartooth Highway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet as it crosses the Beartooth Mountains, making it one of the highest paved roads in the United States.
The route features dramatic switchbacks, alpine lakes, and expansive views that attract riders from across the country.
👉 Read the full Beartooth Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway is famous for its cliffs, tight curves, and dramatic mountain scenery.
This section of U.S. Route 550 runs between Ouray and Silverton, creating one of the most thrilling rides in the Rocky Mountain region.
👉 Read the full Million Dollar Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
California’s Pacific Coast Highway offers a completely different riding experience. Instead of mountain passes, riders travel along dramatic ocean cliffs with views of the Pacific Ocean.
The section through Big Sur is especially popular for its winding curves and famous coastal bridges.
👉 Read the full Pacific Coast Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Angeles Crest Highway (California)
Just outside Los Angeles, the Angeles Crest Highway climbs high into the San Gabriel Mountains. This scenic mountain road features sweeping curves and long stretches of smooth pavement.
Because of its proximity to a major city, the route is a favorite weekend ride for Southern California motorcyclists.
👉 Read the full Angeles Crest Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
US-12 Lewis and Clark Highway (Idaho / Montana)
Following the historic path of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, this scenic section of U.S. Route 12 winds through the forests of the northern Rockies.
Riders enjoy more than 100 miles of flowing curves along the Lochsa River, making it one of the most enjoyable touring roads in the Pacific Northwest.
👉 Read the full US-12 Lewis & Clark Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Needles Highway (South Dakota)
Located in Custer State Park, the Needles Highway is a short but unforgettable ride through the granite spires of the Black Hills.
Narrow tunnels carved through rock formations and tight curves give this road a unique character that many riders remember long after visiting the region.
👉 Read the full Needles Highway Motorcycle Ride Guide.
US Route 50 – The Loneliest Road in America (Nevada)
Crossing the deserts of Nevada, this section of U.S. Route 50 offers one of the most remote motorcycle rides in the United States.
Long stretches of open highway pass through mountain ranges and desert valleys, giving riders a rare sense of solitude on the road.
👉 Read the full Loneliest Road in America Motorcycle Ride Guide.
Final Thoughts
The western United States offers an incredible variety of motorcycle riding experiences. From high alpine passes to rugged desert highways and scenic coastal routes, riders can explore some of the most memorable roads in the country.
Many of these destinations are frequently included in riders’ bucket lists, and each offers a unique combination of scenery, curves, and adventure.