10 Most Memorable Self-Guided Motorcycle Tours in the USA

Oct 12, 2024

Explore the 10 best self-guided motorcycle tours in the USA with our guide. Ride the famous Pacific Coast Highway, cruise down Route 66, and see everything in between. These tours take you through America's beautiful landscapes and rich history. Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting out, these trips offer adventure and freedom. Grab your helmet, start your engine, and get ready to discover what makes these motorcycle routes truly special.

Top 10 Self-Guided Motorcycle Tours

Keep reading below this top ten list for more information on each tour. 

1. Route 66, Illinois to California
2. Pacific Coast Highway, San Diego to San Francisco
3. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee
4. The Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
5. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
6. Grand Circle Tour, See the National Parks
7. Atlantic Coast Highway, Maine to Florida
8. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire to Maine
9. The Overseas Highway, Florida
10. The Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming

Route 66, Illinois to California

Length: 2,293 miles, 36 hours of straight riding time

Start: Chicago, Illinois - Begin at Grant Park. 

Must-Stops:

• Springfield, IL: Lincoln Home National Historic Site
• St. Louis, MO: Gateway Arch, historic sites
• Tulsa, OK: Philbrook Museum, Greenwood District
• Amarillo, TX: Cadillac Ranch, Big Texan Steak Ranch
• Santa Fe, NM: Pueblo-style architecture
• Flagstaff, AZ: Gateway to the Grand Canyon
• Las Vegas, NV: Nightlife and entertainment
• San Bernardino, CA: Original McDonald's museum
• End at Santa Monica Pier, CA: Beach and local attractions

Tips for Route 66:

• Road Conditions: Expect a mix of modern highways and segments of the original Route 66 pavement, which can be uneven and narrow.
• Weather Variability: Temperatures can vary significantly between the Midwest and the Californian coast, making it essential to wear layers for warmth in cooler areas and for adaptability in desert heat.
• Accommodations: Options vary from classic motels rich in Route 66 history to more contemporary hotels. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially in smaller towns.
• Must-See Sites: Blue Whale of Catoosa (OK), Meteor Crater (AZ), The Painted Desert (AZ).

Pacific Coast Highway, San Diego to San Francisco

Length: 680 miles, approximately 14.5 hours of straight riding time

Start: San Diego, CA - Begin your journey in downtown San Diego. 

Note: A stretch of PCH near Big Sur is still currently under construction as of 9/25/24. You can view up-to-date information here. 

Must-Stops:

• La Jolla, CA: Explore La Jolla Cove and its sea lions.
• Los Angeles, CA: Visit Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
• Santa Barbara, CA: Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
• Big Sur, CA: Experience breathtaking cliffside views and McWay Falls.
• Monterey, CA: Discover the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row.
• Santa Cruz, CA: Have fun at the beach boardwalk.
• End at San Francisco, CA: Conclude at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Tips for Pacific Coast Highway:

• Road Conditions: Mainly smooth highways with some winding stretches, especially through Big Sur.
• Weather Variability: Expect cooler temperatures and possible coastal fog; dressing in layers is advisable for comfort and adaptability. Generally, the weather will be significantly hotter towards San Diego, and cooler the further north. You can expect temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees, which is a big jump. 
• Accommodations: From beachside campgrounds to upscale hotels, options are varied; booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel times.
• Must-See Sites: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for wildlife and scuba diving, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, and the uniquely beautiful Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur.

Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi to Tennessee

Length: 519 miles, approximately 10 hours of straight riding time

Start: Natchez, MS - Begin your journey in historic Natchez. 

Must-Stops:

• Jackson, MS: Explore the Mississippi State Capitol and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.
• Tupelo, MS: Visit the birthplace of Elvis Presley.
• Florence, AL: Check out the Rosenbaum House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
• Muscle Shoals, AL: Dive into music history at the Fame Recording Studios.
• Franklin, TN: Enjoy the charm of this historic town.
• End at Nashville, TN: Conclude your tour in the music capital, Nashville, with visits to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Tips for Natchez Trace Parkway:

• Road Conditions: Expect well-maintained roads with gentle curves and minimal elevation changes, making for an easy and scenic ride.
• Weather Variability: Temperatures vary from the high 60s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 20°C to 33°C) depending on the season. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable riding weather.
• Accommodations: Options range from campgrounds along the Parkway to comfortable inns and hotels in the nearby towns; advance booking is a good idea, especially in smaller towns.
• Must-See Sites: Visit the Meriwether Lewis Monument in Hohenwald, TN to pay respects at the explorer's grave site, explore the picturesque Fall Hollow Waterfall nearby, perfect for a short hike, and experience the historic Witch Dance near Houston, MS, reputed to have been a gathering place for witches.

The Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

Length: Approximately 1,729 miles, roughly 30 hours of straight riding time

Start: Itasca State Park, MN - Begin your self-guided tour at the headwaters of the Mississippi River. 

Must-Stops:

• Minneapolis, MN: Explore the vibrant arts scene and the historic Mill City Museum.
• La Crosse, WI: Enjoy the scenic views from Grandad Bluff.
• Dubuque, IA: Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
• St. Louis, MO: See the iconic Gateway Arch and explore the city’s rich musical heritage.
• Memphis, TN: Dive into the music history at Beale Street and the Sun Studio.
• Vicksburg, MS: Explore the Vicksburg National Military Park.
• Baton Rouge, LA: Visit the historic plantations and the state capitol.
• End at New Orleans, LA: Finish your tour in the vibrant French Quarter.

Tips for Great River Road:

• Road Conditions: Well-paved roads with some winding sections near the river; watch for varying conditions in different states.
• Weather Variability: Expect a range from cooler northern climates in Minnesota to warmer, humid conditions as you approach Louisiana. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain, particularly in southern sections.
• Accommodations: Range from riverside campsites to boutique hotels in major cities; booking in advance is recommended during festival seasons and summer months.
• Must-See Sites: Visit the Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa to explore ancient Native American ceremonial mounds, see the remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north of Mexico at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Illinois, and immerse yourself in the deep roots of the blues music tradition at the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Length: Approximately 469 miles, about 10 hours of straight riding time

Start: Waynesboro, VA - Begin your self-guided journey at the northern entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Must-Stops:

• Humpback Rocks, VA: Enjoy panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains.
• Roanoke, VA: Dive into Blue Ridge culture at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
• Mabry Mill, VA: Visit one of the most photographed spots on the Parkway.
• Blue Ridge Music Center, NC: Experience live mountain music.
• Asheville, NC: Tour the historic Biltmore Estate.
• Great Smoky Mountains, NC: Conclude your tour with incredible views and hiking opportunities.

Tips for Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Road Conditions: Expect winding roads with some sharp turns and varying elevations; well-maintained throughout.
• Weather Variability: Prepare for a range of temperatures; cooler at higher elevations and during morning/evening hours. Dress in layers and carry rain gear.
• Accommodations: From campgrounds with stunning views to cozy mountain lodges; it’s best to book in advance, especially in peak fall season.
• Must-See Sites: Explore the panoramic views at Humpback Rocks in Virginia, delve into history at Mabry Mill, and enjoy vibrant cultural scenes with live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center in North Carolina.

Want Someone to Handle the Route While You Handle the Ride?

Self-guided tours give you total control, but sometimes you just want to show up, follow a local, and enjoy the road without the planning. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours and experiences across the country, led by riders who know these routes and can help you get the most out of every mile. Whether it's the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Pacific Coast Highway, a guided ride takes the logistics off your plate.

Grand Circle Tour, See the National Parks (Utah’s Mighty Five PLUS)

Length: Approximately 1,175 miles, about 20 hours of straight riding time

Start: Las Vegas, NV - Kick off your epic self-guided tour in Las Vegas.

Must-Stops:

• Zion National Park, UT: Marvel at the towering cliffs and hike the challenging trails.
• Bryce Canyon National Park, UT: Experience the unique hoodoo rock formations and breathtaking vistas.
• Capitol Reef National Park, UT: Explore the orchards and the historic Fruita area.
• Arches National Park, UT: Walk beneath the famed Delicate Arch.
• Canyonlands National Park, UT: Witness the dramatic desert landscape of the Island in the Sky.
• Monument Valley, AZ/UT: Ride through the iconic landscapes used in numerous films.
• Grand Canyon National Park, AZ: End your tour with awe-inspiring views of the canyon’s vast expanse.

Tips for Grand Circle Tour:

• Road Conditions: Mostly paved roads, with some areas requiring careful navigation due to rough patches and dirt roads.
• Weather Variability: Expect hot and dry conditions, particularly in summer. Early spring or late fall may offer more temperate weather. Always carry plenty of water and wear sun protection.
• Accommodations: Options range from campgrounds within the national parks to hotels in nearby towns. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Atlantic Coast Route, Maine to Florida

Length: Approximately 2,000 miles, around 30 hours of straight riding time

Start: Fort Kent, ME - Begin your self-guided coastal journey in Fort Kent, Maine. 

Must-Stops:

• Acadia National Park, ME: Explore rugged coastlines and mountain landscapes.
• Boston, MA: Dive into history with a visit to the Freedom Trail.
• New York City, NY: Experience the bustling streets and landmarks like Times Square.
• Philadelphia, PA: Discover the historical treasures of the City of Brotherly Love.
• Washington, D.C.: Tour the capital’s iconic monuments and museums.
• Richmond, VA: Enjoy the rich history and vibrant arts scene.
• Myrtle Beach, SC: Relax on the beaches or explore the boardwalk.
• Savannah, GA: Wander through the historic districts and enjoy southern charm.
• Miami, FL: Conclude your tour in the vibrant atmosphere of Miami.

Tips for Atlantic Coast Route:

• Road Conditions: Expect a mix of urban settings and scenic coastal roads with varying traffic levels.
• Weather Variability: Prepare for diverse weather conditions from the cooler climates in Maine to the tropical warmth of Florida. Layered clothing and waterproof gear are essential.
• Accommodations: Options range from quaint seaside inns to urban hotels. Booking ahead is advisable, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
• Must-See Sites: Visit Acadia National Park for its stunning landscapes, explore historical sites along Boston's Freedom Trail, experience the vibrant urban life of New York City, delve into the rich history of Philadelphia, tour the iconic monuments of Washington, D.C., enjoy the arts in Richmond, relax at Myrtle Beach, soak up the southern charm of Savannah, and revel in Miami's dynamic culture.

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire to Maine

Length: Approximately 105 miles, about 2.5 hours of straight riding time

Start: Lincoln, NH - Begin your self-guided tour in Conway, New Hampshire.

Must-Stops:

• Kancamagus Scenic Byway, NH: Ride this renowned 34-mile stretch with stunning views of the White Mountains.
• Lincoln, NH: Stop for hikes and possibly a scenic gondola ride at Loon Mountain.
• North Conway, NH: Explore local shops and the historic train station.
• Portland, ME: Conclude your tour in Portland, Maine, with its vibrant waterfront, excellent seafood, and historic Old Port district.

Tips for Kancamagus Highway:

• Road Conditions: The road is famously winding and undulating, offering an engaging ride through the mountains.
• Weather Variability: Prepare for cool temperatures, especially at higher elevations, and sudden weather changes. Waterproof gear and layers are advisable.
• Accommodations: Along the route, options range from rustic lodges to charming bed and breakfasts in small towns. Early booking is recommended, especially during the fall foliage season.
• Must-See Sites: Experience the breathtaking mountain vistas along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway, explore the outdoor adventures in Lincoln, NH, enjoy the charm and shopping in North Conway, and delve into the maritime culture of Portland, ME.

The Overseas Highway, Florida

Length: Approximately 100 miles, about 2 hours of straight riding time

Start: Key Largo, FL - Kick off your tropical journey in Key Largo, the first of the Florida Keys.

Must-Stops:

• Islamorada, FL: Known for its coral reefs and sport fishing. Take a break for some snorkeling or fishing.
• Marathon, FL: Visit the Turtle Hospital to learn about sea turtle rehabilitation.
• Big Pine Key, FL: Look for the endangered Key deer, and enjoy quieter, natural surroundings.
• Key West, FL: Conclude your tour at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Enjoy historic sites, lively street performances, and the famous sunset at Mallory Square.

Tips for Overseas Highway:

• Road Conditions: Mostly a straight and narrow route that crosses numerous bridges over the stunning turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Weather Variability: Typically warm and sunny, but be prepared for quick tropical showers. Sunscreen and light, breathable clothing are essential.
• Accommodations: Options range from luxurious resorts to cozy guesthouses. It’s wise to book in advance, especially during the peak season from December to April.
• Must-See Sites: Dive into the aquatic activities in Islamorada, tour the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for a unique wildlife experience, spot the tiny Key deer in Big Pine Key, and soak up the vibrant culture and historic landmarks of Key West.

The Beartooth Highway, Montana & Wyoming

Length: Approximately 64 miles, about 1.75 hours of straight riding time

Start: Red Lodge, MT - Begin your mountain adventure in Red Lodge, Montana. 

Must-Stops:

• Top of the World Store, MT: A unique stop offering supplies and souvenirs at high elevation.
• Beartooth Pass, MT/WY: Reach the highway's highest point at nearly 11,000 feet for panoramic views.
• Cooke City, MT: Explore this small gateway community to Yellowstone National Park.

Tips for Beartooth Highway:

• Road Conditions: Expect sharp curves, steep climbs, and descents. The road is well-maintained but can be challenging, especially in snowy or wet conditions.
• Weather Variability: Temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations, even in summer. Snow is possible year-round. Dress in warm layers and bring weatherproof gear.
• Accommodations: Limited along the highway itself. Plan for stays in Red Lodge, Cooke City, or extend your trip into Yellowstone for a broader range of options.
• Must-See Sites: Visit the high-altitude Top of the World Store for unique finds, experience breathtaking views from Beartooth Pass, and discover the rustic charm of Cooke City.

More helpful touring guides:

• How to choose a guided motorcycle tour
• Beginner-friendly motorcycle tours
• What nobody tells you about motorcycle travel. 
• Guided vs. Self-Guided Tours: Which would you choose?
• Complete Motorcycle Touring Guide for Beginners
• Motorcycle trip packing list

Looking to rent your dream motorcycle? 

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Our platform features a straightforward booking process, comprehensive insurance coverage, and helpful customer support, ensuring a smooth and secure rental experience. Start your journey today by visiting Riders Share and selecting a motorcycle that turns your dream ride into reality.

Enjoy the EXPERIENCE. Motorcycle tours, classes, & more

Riders Share introduces "Experiences," a new feature that allows owners to go beyond motorcycle rentals by offering tours, classes, and more directly on the platform. This exciting addition enables riders to not only rent their dream bike but also to engage in unique riding experiences curated by local experts. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills with a riding class, enjoy a guided tour along scenic routes, or participate in special motorcycle events, 

Riders Share Experiences connects you with a variety of opportunities. Dive into a more immersive riding adventure tailored to your interests and skill level, all facilitated by the reliable and user-friendly Riders Share platform.