Top Scenic Fall Motorcycle Rides to Plan Right Now

Aug 23, 2024

For some, autumn brings to mind pumpkin spice, pumpkin picking, and classic fall festivities. But for us, it also marks some of the best weather for hitting the road (though we enjoy those other autumn traditions too—no judgment here!). Here are some of the best fall motorcycle rides to see the beautiful foliage this year. 

While we can’t cover every state (or this blog would be well… impossibly long or not descriptive), we were able to cover over 16+ states in this article. Grab your helmet, and let’s go.

First Things First- Be Careful of Leaves!

The autumn is typically one of the best and most scenic times to ride your bike, especially with the cooler weather and colorful foliage. With that said, riding can be especially dangerous during the fall when leaves are on the road. Wet leaves can cause slippery and dangerous conditions while riding. Avoid riding over piles of leaves at all costs, since it’s possible you can lose your traction. 

Best Time to See the Fall Foliage in the United States

For the best fall colors, timing depends on the region. In the Northeast, peak colors typically show from late September to early October, especially in states like Maine and Vermont. The Midwest reaches its colorful best around mid-October, while the South peaks in late October to early November. In the West, autumn colors can be enjoyed from September in the mountains to November in coastal areas.

Did you know that you could actually Google “fall foliage reports near me” to discover what the leaves are doing in your area (or somewhere you want to travel)? 

Summary of Fall Foliage Motorcycle Rides in this Article: 

And no, before you read this, we did not include every state. We do have a lot of different articles specifically written for individual states, like New York, Pennsylvania, California, Washington, Colorado, and more! You can find them all at the link below.

Eastern USA:

• Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
• Tail of the Dragon (North Carolina to Tennessee)
• Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts)
• Hawk’s Nest (New York)
• Acadia National Park Loop Road (Maine)

Western USA:

• Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
• San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
• Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
• Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Other Honorable Mentions:

• Tunnel of Trees (Michigan)
• Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive (Wisconsin)
• Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas)
• Lolo Pass (Idaho to Montana)
• Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)
• Twisted Sisters (Texas)
• Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee to North Carolina)
• Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

The Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469 miles from Rockfish Gap, Virginia, to Oconaluftee, North Carolina, offers an iconic American driving experience. Renowned for its scenic beauty, the Parkway passes through a diverse array of Appalachian landscapes, including dense forests, open meadows, and high mountain peaks.

The Parkway is divided into four regions—Ridge, Plateau, Highlands, and Pisgah—each offering unique attractions and experiences. For instance, the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park at Milepost 294 and the Linn Cove Viaduct at Milepost 304 are standout destinations. The Parkway also features several visitor centers and hiking trails, such as the rigorous trails at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and the picturesque pathway under the Linn Cove Viaduct.

Tail of the Dragon (North Carolina to Tennessee)

The Tail of the Dragon, stretching along US-129 at the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, offers a great autumn ride when foliage adds a vivid backdrop to its famed 318 curves. This 11-mile stretch is a popular destination for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts seeking a challenging ride through the mountainous terrain. The autumn period brings cooler temperatures and vibrant leaf colors, enhancing the scenic beauty and making it a prime time for a memorable ride. While the road is open year-round, the best time for experiencing the fall colors is typically from late September to October.

Safety is important on the Tail of the Dragon because of its sharp curves and elevation changes. Always ride within speed limits and stay alert because of the road's popularity and potential congestion, especially on weekends. Nearby attractions like the Little River Road and the scenic views around Gatlinburg provide additional reasons to explore the area during your visit

Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts)

The Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts stretches 62 miles through the picturesque Berkshire Mountains, providing stunning views, especially in the fall. As the leaves turn, the route becomes a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. This scenic ride offers travelers a perfect way to experience the brilliant autumn colors that New England is famous for, making it an essential trip for those who appreciate nature's seasonal artistry.

Hawk's Nest (New York)

Hawk's Nest in New York, situated on State Route 97, is celebrated for its dramatic, winding road that offers great views of the Delaware River and vibrant fall foliage. Named after the birds of prey that inhabit the area, this scenic stretch is particularly breathtaking in autumn when the surrounding landscape is painted in gold, orange, and red hues. The road, originally a one-lane dirt path built in 1859 and paved in the early 1930s, curves along the river's edge, flanked by a stone wall and a dense forest on the opposite side, making it a favorite for both driving and motorcycle enthusiasts. It’s also a part of the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, recognized for its historical and aesthetic importance.

This route is not just a haven for nature lovers but also attracts photographers and film makers, having been featured in movies and numerous car commercials. Its popularity peaks during the fall, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a picturesque ride through one of New York's most iconic landscapes.

Acadia National Park Loop Road (Maine)

Acadia National Park's Loop Road in Maine is a spectacular ride for experiencing the beauty of autumn at varying elevations. This scenic route winds through the park, offering expansive views of the vibrant autumn colors that blanket the landscape. From the fiery reds to the bright yellows, the foliage along this road makes it a prime destination for leaf peepers and nature lovers each fall. The ride also offers various points to stop and enjoy the serene beauty of one of America's most beloved national parks.

Chase the Colors with a Local Lead

Fall foliage doesn't stick to a schedule, and the best stretches shift week to week. Riders Share offers motorcycle tours led by locals who know when the leaves are peaking and which roads give you the best views without the traffic. If you'd rather ride than research, a guided trip keeps you on the good roads while the colors are still worth chasing.

Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)

The Beartooth Highway, stretching 68 miles through Montana and Wyoming. This high-elevation route offers some beautiful autumn hues in a rugged mountain setting, making it a great destination for scenic rides. The landscape transforms, peaking from late September to early October. Because of its elevation, the weather along Beartooth Highway can be unpredictable, so it's essential to come prepared for varying conditions.

Driving the highway offers stunning views and a passage through significant historical and geological sites. It connects Red Lodge, Montana, to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, near Cooke City, Montana. For those planning a trip, including stops at local towns and exploring nearby trails can enrich the experience. However, travelers should be aware that the road typically closes with the first heavy snowfall of the season, which can occur in October.

San Juan Skyway (Colorado)

The San Juan Skyway in Colorado is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, providing an array of colors along the 230-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains. This route includes the famous Million Dollar Highway (see below for more info!), known for its breathtaking views and rich history tied to Colorado's mining past. The best time to see the leaves changing color along this byway is from late September to early October, when the aspens turn a vibrant gold, offering picturesque scenes that are especially dramatic against the backdrop of rugged mountain peaks and historic towns like Silverton and Ouray.

The entire loop can take about seven hours to ride without stops, but many visitors choose to spend a weekend exploring the numerous scenic points, historical sites, and outdoor activities available along the way. Whether it's taking in the alpine views from Molas Pass, soaking in the hot springs in Ouray, or exploring the mining-era charm of Silverton, the San Juan Skyway offers a rich and varied autumn experience.

Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)

The Million Dollar Highway, part of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado, runs approximately 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray. Known for its breathtaking views, this road traverses the rugged San Juan Mountains, offering a striking display of fall colors. 

Constructed in the 1880s and later paved in the 1920s, it winds through historically rich mining areas, featuring steep grades and sharp curves without guardrails, particularly at Red Mountain Pass. The highway is not only a test of driving skill but also a gateway to exploring the historic towns of Silverton and Ouray, often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" with their scenic alpine setting.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is a stunning 50-mile route that cuts across Glacier National Park, providing awe-inspiring views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes. Completed in 1932, the road goes through the park from east to west, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, which stands at 6,646 feet. This historic road, recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, offers motorists a unique journey through diverse park terrains—from lush cedar forests and vast glacial lakes at lower elevations to rugged, windswept alpine tundra atop the pass.

The road is typically open from June through early fall, depending on snow conditions. It's important for you to check current road statuses and weather forecasts, since sudden changes can quickly affect travel plans. If you’re looking to explore deeper into the park, hiking trails and visitor centers like the one at Logan Pass provide further opportunities to experience Glacier National Park's natural beauty​.

Tunnel of Trees (Michigan)

The Tunnel of Trees in Michigan, located on the M-119 route, is a 20-mile scenic route that stretches from Harbor Springs to Cross Village. It’s known for its dense canopy of trees that arch over the road, creating a tunnel-like effect that is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors. The narrow roads provide unique peaks to Lake Michigan and passing through charming small towns and historical sites along the way.

Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive (Wisconsin)

The Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive in Wisconsin is a 115-mile motorcycle route with views of the region's unique glacial landscapes and vibrant autumn colors. Stretching from Elkhart Lake in the north to Whitewater Lake in the south, this ride takes you through rolling hills and past numerous natural and historical sites. It's an ideal route for experiencing Wisconsin's fall foliage, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking along the way. The ride is marked with signs, so it’s easy to follow as you explore the beautiful Kettle Moraine State Forest and the charming small towns along the route.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway (Arkansas)

The Pig Trail Scenic Byway in Arkansas is a 19-mile motorcycle ride through the Ozark Mountains, offering a captivating glimpse into the area's natural beauty. This route features winding roads surrounded by lush forests that showcase vibrant leaves in the fall. The drive connects Ozark to Fayetteville, and winds past different outdoor recreation spots and overlooks, making it a popular area in the Ozark National Forest to enjoy the colorful seasonal changes.

Lolo Pass (Idaho to Montana)

Lolo Pass follows the scenic border between Montana and Idaho along U.S. Highway 12, offers a stunning 53-mile route through the Bitterroot and Clearwater National Forests. Positioned at an elevation of 5,233 feet within the Bitterroot Range, Lolo Pass provides breathtaking views of expansive meadows, towering mountain peaks, and densely forested hillsides, especially vibrant during the fall when the foliage turns to a rich palette of colors.

This area is not only a visual treat but also rich in history, having been traversed by Lewis and Clark on their historic expedition. The pass is accessible for various recreational activities including hiking, biking, and in the winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The Lolo Pass Visitor Center offers interpretive displays that highlight the area's historical significance and natural features. For those looking to extend their journey, the drive from Missoula to the pass is filled with beautiful landscapes and is an essential experience for those visiting the region​.

Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that winds through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, following ancient trails used by Native Americans and early settlers. It offers a journey through beautifully varied landscapes, including dense forests and rolling hills.

Best stops along the way include historical sites like the Meriwether Lewis Monument and the Emerald Mound, as well as natural attractions like the Cypress Swamp. This parkway not only showcases the South's rich history and natural beauty but also provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Twisted Sisters (Texas)

The Twisted Sisters route in Texas is a renowned 100-mile loop through the Hill Country that provides one of the best fall motorcycle rides for seeing vibrant foliage. Known for its challenging terrain, the route includes Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337, offering stunning views through steep climbs, sharp turns, and deep valleys. This area is particularly noted for its scenic beauty during the fall when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vivid display of colors, making it a runner-up for the best fall motorcycle ride in the United States.

Riders are drawn to the Twisted Sisters for both the riding experience and the spectacular scenery. The roads twist through some of the most rugged terrain in Texas, including areas with significant elevation changes and tight curves that require careful navigation. Along the way, enjoy some local attractions and pit stops, enhancing the overall experience of the journey through Texas Hill Country.

Cherohala Skyway (Tennessee to North Carolina)

The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile scenic drive connecting Tellico Plains, Tennessee, to Robbinsville, North Carolina, through the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its breathtaking views and vibrant fall colors, the drive reaches elevations over 5,000 feet, providing expansive vistas from multiple overlooks. Along the way, explore pitstops such as the Hooper Bald and Huckleberry Knob for hikes and picnics.The Skyway is also an access point to the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, a preserved area of old-growth forest​

Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

Utah's Scenic Byway 12, a pretty great 124-mile drive that winds through some of the state's most beautiful landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and deserts. This byway, known as "A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway," connects Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. The route passes through diverse environments, from towering sandstone cliffs and rolling slickrock hills to dense forests and panoramic vistas, making it one of the most visually striking drives in the world- especially in autumn with its yellow leaves and cooler temperatures. 

Rent a Motorcycle for Your Fall Motorcycle Ride with Riders Share

Planning a fall motorcycle ride? Rent the perfect bike for your adventure through Riders Share. With a wide selection of motorcycles to choose from, Riders Share makes it easy to find a ride that suits your style and the terrain you’ll be exploring. Whether you're cruising through vibrant fall landscapes or winding along scenic mountain roads, renting through Riders Share ensures you have a reliable and exciting ride to enhance your autumn journey. Experience the open road and the beauty of the season in a whole new way with Riders Share.