Your 2025 Summer Motorcycle Travel Guide: Destinations, Tours, Routes, & More

May 29, 2025

Picture this: it’s the middle of summer, the sun’s out, and you're finally heading out on the kind of motorcycle trip you've been thinking about for months. Maybe you're renting a bike in a new state or checking off a route that’s been sitting on your bucket list for a while. Whether you’ve got one weekend free or a few weeks mapped out, summer is one of the best times to plan a ride. Below, we’ve pulled together a full guide to help you make the most of motorcycle travel in 2025, from destinations and tours to planning tips and must-know routes.

How to Start Planning a Motorcycle Trip This Summer

Planning ahead is one of the easiest ways to make your summer motorcycle trip go smoothly. Since summer is such a popular season for riders, rentals and routes can book up quickly, especially around holidays or major events. It helps to start by figuring out how much time you actually have for the trip. Once that’s set, you can decide how far you want to go and what kind of route makes sense. Some riders prefer staying in one state and exploring nearby towns, while others build multi-day routes that cover hundreds of miles.

From there, choosing travel dates and booking your rental early should be next on your list. Bikes with gear included tend to get picked first, and certain locations fill up faster than others. It’s also worth mapping out gas stops, overnight stays, and any major attractions you want to check out. Even a loose plan can save you from scrambling once you’re on the road. To help get you started, here’s a quick checklist of what to cover before the trip begins:

Summer Motorcycle Trip Planning Checklist

☐ Pick your travel dates

☐ Choose your route or general area

☐ Decide how many miles you want to cover each day

☐ Search rentals in your starting location

☐ Book your bike early, especially if gear is included

☐ Look into lodging or campsites ahead of time

☐ Mark down rest stops, fuel stations, and key attractions

What to Pack for Warm-Weather Motorcycle Travel

Summer riding means packing smart. You’ll want gear that keeps you cool but still offers protection, plus a few add-ons that help you handle heat, sun, and long hours on the road. Even short rides can wear you down fast in hot weather if you’re not prepared, so it’s worth having the essentials covered before you leave. Here are a few warm-weather must-haves to keep in mind:

• Ventilated Riding Gear: Look for mesh or lightweight jackets and pants that offer airflow without sacrificing safety.
• Hydration Pack: Staying hydrated is key in the heat, especially if you’re riding through dry or high-temperature areas.
• Moisture-Wicking Layers: These help regulate body temperature and reduce sweat buildup during long rides.
• Tank or Tail Bag: Perfect for holding sunscreen, snacks, chargers, or anything you’ll want easy access to.
• Sunscreen & Sunglasses: A high-SPF sunscreen and a pair of riding-friendly sunglasses can help protect you from sun exposure over long stretches.
• Compact Rain Layer: Even in summer, pop-up storms happen. A light, packable layer can keep you dry without taking up space.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Your Summer Ride

When you're planning a summer ride, the type of motorcycle you pick should match the kind of trip you’re taking. For longer rides that cover more ground, it helps to go with something built for comfort and distance. Touring bikes and cruisers are solid options for multi-day trips because they offer more stability, better seating support, and extra storage for your gear. Bikes like the Yamaha Star Venture or the Indian Challenger are made to keep you comfortable during long hours on the road without giving up performance.

For shorter rides, you might want something lighter and more responsive. Standard and naked bikes are easier to maneuver, especially in stop-and-go traffic or when you're spending more time exploring one area. A Triumph Trident 660 or a Moto Guzzi V7 can give you the control and ride feel you're looking for without the bulk of a full touring setup.

Thinking through where you’re going and how long you’ll be out helps you find a bike that fits your plans. Comfort, size, and features all play a part, but what matters most is having a motorcycle that works with your ride, not against it.

Rent a Motorcycle with Riders Share

Here at Riders Share, we offer the largest selection of motorcycle rentals across the country, with thousands of listings available in all 50 states. You can browse bikes by location, travel dates, or type of ride, with options from brands like BMW, Honda, Harley-Davidson, and 25 others. Whether you're planning a weekend ride or a multi-state trip this summer, we’ve got the selection to match your plans. From gear-included rentals to touring-ready options, Riders Share makes it easy to find the bike that works for you.

Top Motorcycle Destinations to Ride in 2025

Some states just make more sense for summer rides, especially when you're looking for variety, solid weather, and memorable roads. If you're trying to narrow down where to go this year, these four destinations should be on your radar.

1. California

California is a top pick for a reason. Between the inland deserts, mountain roads, and coastal highways, it gives riders a little bit of everything. Northern California offers cooler temps and winding forest roads near places like Shasta-Trinity and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Down south, the area around Malibu Canyon and Angeles Crest Highway is great for day rides that still feel remote.

2. Arizona

Arizona brings the heat, literally, but it's also full of wide-open desert roads and elevation changes that break up the landscape. Northern Arizona tends to be more summer-friendly, with routes that take you through Flagstaff, Sedona, and parts of the Coconino National Forest. It’s a great way to explore the state without riding through the hottest parts.

3. Texas

Texas is massive, and while summer can get hot, it’s still packed with ride-worthy destinations. The Hill Country around Austin and San Antonio is one of the more comfortable regions for summer trips, especially early in the morning or toward the end of the day. Small towns like Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Bandera make for solid stops along the way.

4. New Mexico

New Mexico often gets overlooked, but it’s one of the best states to ride through if you like open roads, high desert views, and less traffic. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway near Taos is a solid summer loop, and you’ll find plenty of cooler air once you get into the higher elevations.

Self-Guided Motorcycle Tours You Can Try This Year

If you’re not looking to ride in a group or sign up for a formal tour, there are still plenty of routes you can take on your own with a little prep. These self-guided rides are known for being straightforward, easy to follow, and packed with good stops along the way.

Tour 1: Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

Stretching nearly 470 miles, this is one of the most well-known self-guided rides on the East Coast. It runs from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. With no commercial traffic and a speed limit that stays around 45 mph, it’s designed for scenic travel. Riders can hop on or off at multiple points, making it easy to break up into shorter rides if needed.

Tour 2: Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)

This one’s for riders who want big elevation changes and cooler summer weather. The Beartooth Highway runs for about 68 miles between Red Lodge, Montana and the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The road climbs to nearly 11,000 feet and includes tight turns, sweeping views, and several spots to stop and take in the landscape. It's fully paved and only open seasonally, so summer is the best time to ride it.

Tour 3: Coastal Route from Astoria to Brookings (Oregon Coast)

If you’ve got a few days and want to ride along the Pacific without heading into California, Oregon’s coastal route is a solid option. Starting in Astoria and ending in Brookings, this stretch of Highway 101 covers about 360 miles. It’s easy to follow and has regular pull-offs, gas stations, and small towns to explore. It also stays cooler during the summer compared to inland routes.

Prefer to Have a Local Lead the Way?

Self-guided rides are great if you like planning every detail, but sometimes it's easier to follow someone who already knows the roads. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across the country, led by locals who can show you the best routes, timing, and stops in regions like California, the Blue Ridge, and the Southwest. If you want to spend less time mapping and more time riding, a guided tour is a solid way to experience a new area this summer.

Best Routes to Explore During Summer

Summer is when some of the most iconic motorcycle routes really come to life. These rides are known for their views, road quality, and the kind of stops that make them worth the trip. Here’s a look at some of the top routes to explore when the weather’s warm and the roads are clear.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

This is one of the most well-known summer rides in the U.S., especially between San Luis Obispo and Monterey.

• Approx. Mileage: 120 miles (San Luis Obispo to Monterey section)
• Popular Stops: Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Why Ride It in Summer: Clear coastal views, good weather, and a stretch that feels built for motorcycles

2. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

This seasonal route through Glacier National Park is only open during the warmer months and offers views you won’t find anywhere else.

• Approx. Mileage: 50 miles
• Popular Stops: Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake
• Why Ride It in Summer: Road is closed most of the year due to snow; summer is the only time it’s fully accessible

3. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)

This stretch between Ouray and Silverton is short but packed with views, tight turns, and high-altitude riding.

• Approx. Mileage: 25 miles
• Popular Stops: Red Mountain Pass, Silverton, Ouray
• Why Ride It in Summer: Clear roads, cooler temps, and fewer weather-related closures

4. Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee to North Carolina)

Often paired with the Tail of the Dragon, this route offers sweeping curves and overlooks through the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests.

• Approx. Mileage: 43 miles
• Popular Stops: Bald River Falls, Santeetlah Overlook, Tellico Plains
• Why Ride It in Summer: Less traffic than nearby routes, with smooth elevation changes and mountain air

What It Costs to Travel by Motorcycle This Summer

Traveling by motorcycle can be more budget-friendly than many other options, but costs can still add up depending on how far you’re going and what you need along the way. Daily rental rates typically range from $60 to $100, while weekly bookings often bring the price down to around $50 per day. On Riders Share, multi-day discounts are applied automatically and appear alongside each motorcycle listing as you browse.

Fuel is another cost to keep in mind, though most motorcycles get between 40 and 60 miles per gallon, which helps keep gas expenses lower compared to cars. Riders who don’t own gear may also need to factor in rental costs, with helmets, jackets, and gloves usually priced around $10 to $20 per item, per day. Some rentals include gear or offer bundled pricing, while owners hitting the road should still double-check their gear setup to avoid any last-minute purchases. If you're bringing your own bike, it's also worth budgeting for routine maintenance or a quick pre-trip inspection to avoid surprises once you're already on the road.

Tips for Keeping Your Motorcycle Secure on the Road

Tip 1: Use a Lock That Matches Your Parking Situation. Disc locks and heavy-duty chain locks are two of the most effective ways to secure your motorcycle, but the one you choose should depend on where you're parking. Disc locks work well for short stops or hotel parking lots with some visibility, while chain locks are better for longer stops when you can secure your bike to a fixed object like a pole or rack.

Tip 2: Don’t Leave Gear Behind. It might be tempting to leave your helmet or jacket strapped to the bike, but that makes them easy targets, especially in areas with a lot of foot traffic. Use a helmet lock if you have one or bring your gear with you when stepping away for longer periods. If you're traveling with saddlebags or a tank bag, make sure they're lockable or easy to carry.

Tip 3: Be Smart About Where You Park. Whenever possible, park in well-lit areas with plenty of visibility. If you're staying overnight, try to keep the bike near your hotel room or within sight of security cameras. Thieves are less likely to go after a bike that’s in a busy or well-monitored space. Even during the day, choosing spots with more foot traffic can act as a deterrent.

Don’t Miss Out on This Summer’s Best Motorcycle Destinations

Summer doesn’t stick around forever, and neither do the best travel windows for a great ride. Taking a little time now to figure out where you want to go, how long you’ll be out, and what you’ll need on the road can make the whole experience more enjoyable. A solid plan gives you more room to enjoy each stop, explore new places, and make the most of every mile.