Top 7 Best Motorcycle Rides In & Around Seattle, Washington

Jun 18, 2024

Seattle, known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts. The city and its surrounding areas offer some of the best motorcycle rides in the Pacific Northwest. Here are seven Seattle motorcycle rides you shouldn't miss if you’re in the area.

1. Mount Rainier Scenic Route

Start Location: Enumclaw, WA

End Location: Ashford, WA

Approximate Miles: 109 miles

The Mount Rainier Scenic Route is a must for any rider looking for motorcycle routes near Seattle. Starting in Enumclaw, this ride takes you through forests and up winding roads with views of Mount Rainier. The route passes through the towns of Greenwater and Crystal Mountain, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Riders can enjoy a mix of curves and turns, making it a perfect ride for those who love a bit of a challenge. The journey ends in Ashford, near the entrance to Mount Rainier National Park.

2. Snoqualmie Falls Loop

Start Location: North Bend, WA

End Location: North Bend, WA

Approximate Miles: 21.5 miles

The Snoqualmie Falls Loop is a short but rewarding ride. Starting in North Bend, this route takes you through forests and along the Snoqualmie River. A highlight of this ride is the stop at Snoqualmie Falls, where you can take in the waterfall. The loop continues through locations like Spring Glen, Fall City, and Upper Preston, offering smooth roads and gentle curves. This ride is ideal for those who want a quick escape into nature with minimal time on the road.

3. Whidbey Island Loop

Start Location: Mukilteo, WA to Clinton, WA

End Location: Mukilteo, WA

Approximate Miles: 115 miles

The Whidbey Island Loop offers a relaxing and scenic ride. Starting by taking a ferry ride from Mukilteo to Clinton, you’ll be able to experience 115 miles of pure riding as you wind through this loop. Stops in the towns of Greenbank and Coupeville provide opportunities to explore local shops and restaurants. The ride ends when you make it all around back to Mulkiteo.  This ride is perfect for those looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the bike with plenty of scenic stops.

4. Olympic Peninsula Loop

Start Location: Belfair, WA

End Location: Belfair, WA

Approximate Miles: 347 miles

The Olympic Peninsula Loop is an epic journey that starts and ends in Belfair, WA. This ride takes you through the different landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, including forests, coastline, and lakes. Key highlights include views along Highway 101, the Hoh Rainforest, and the beaches of La Push. This ride is best suited for experienced riders looking for a full-day adventure with a mix of road conditions and scenery.

Want a Local to Show You the Best of the Pacific Northwest?

Seattle's riding options range from quick loops to multi-day adventures, and knowing which routes to combine and when to ride them takes local knowledge. Riders Share offers motorcycle experiences near Seattle led by riders who know the mountain passes, the coastal roads, and the timing to avoid the rain. If you'd rather follow someone who's done these routes than navigate unfamiliar terrain on your own, a guided experience is a great way to see more of what Washington has to offer.

5. HWY 12 Ride

Start Location: Yakima, WA

End Location: Packwood, WA

Approximate Miles: 75 miles

Highway 12 offers a beautiful ride through the heart of Washington State. Starting in Yakima, the route takes you westward through the Yakima Valley and into the Cascade Range. The ride features a mix of straight stretches and curvy mountain roads, with views of Mount Adams and Mount Rainier. The ride ends in Packwood, a small town that’s typically used as a gateway to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This ride is perfect for those who enjoy diverse landscapes and a mix of road types.

6. Leavenworth Ride

Start Location: Monroe, WA

End Location: Leavenworth, WA

Approximate Miles: 85 miles

The ride to Leavenworth is a favorite among motorcyclists looking for motorcycle routes near Seattle. Starting in Monroe, the route takes you along Highway 2 through the Skykomish Valley and over Stevens Pass. As you travel toward the eastern side of the Cascades, the landscape changes from forest to open terrain. The ride concludes in Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style village known for its architecture and festive atmosphere. This ride offers a blend of mountain scenery and cultural charm, making it a great choice for a day trip.

7. Puget Sound Day Ride

Start Location: Seattle, WA

End Location: Tacoma, WA

Approximate Miles: 50 miles

The Puget Sound Day Ride offers an eye-catching journey along the waterfront. Starting in Seattle, the route heads south along the Puget Sound, offering views of the water and the Olympic Mountains. Key stops include the town of Gig Harbor, where you can enjoy waterfront dining and shopping. The ride continues to Tacoma, where you can explore the Museum of Glass and other attractions. This ride is perfect for those who want a scenic, relaxing ride with plenty of opportunities to explore.

Bonus Ride: Cascade Loop

Start Location: Winthrop, WA

End Location: Winthrop, WA

Approximate Miles: 431 miles

Seattle has so much to offer, and we felt we couldn’t leave out one of our favorite routes: the Cascade Loop. Starting and ending in Monroe, this loop takes you through some of Washington’s most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Highlights include the farmlands of Skagit Valley, the peaks of the North Cascades, and the beauty of Lake Chelan. This ride offers everything from tight mountain curves to open highway stretches, making it ideal for experienced riders looking for a multi-day adventure.

Explore the Best Motorcycle Rides in Seattle with Riders Share

Ready to hit the road and explore these fantastic routes? With Riders Share, you can easily find the perfect bike for your adventure. Whether you're a local or visiting, our motorcycle rental Seattle options offer a wide range of motorcycles to suit your needs. Book your ride with Riders Share today and experience the beauty of Seattle's best motorcycle rides.

End of the Road

Discovering the scenic motorcycle routes in and around Seattle is an experience every rider should enjoy. Each route provides unique scenery and experiences for all riders. So, grab your helmet, hit the open road, and explore the beauty and adventure that awaits you around every turn.