Best End of Summer Motorcycle Destinations to Plan ASAP

Aug 24, 2024

Summer is coming to an end, but there’s still time to hit the road for some great motorcycle adventures before winter arrives. This is the perfect season to enjoy the open road, with its warm weather and beautiful views all around. Before it gets too cold, make the most of the remaining summer days by checking out some must-see motorcycle destinations. Here are eight great places you should ride to before the season ends.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park | Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is a great spot for a motorcycle trip before summer ends. The park offers stunning mountain views and fresh air that's perfect for riding. One of the highlights here is Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the U.S., which climbs over 12,000 feet and offers spectacular views of the Rockies. Late summer is an ideal time to visit, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.

As you ride through the park, you might spot elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. The park is also home to beautiful alpine lakes and varied landscapes. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping spots if you want to extend your stay and explore more.

Rocky Mountain National Park combines adventure and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for a late summer ride. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the incredible views and wildlife. Add this park to your list of must-see places before the season ends.

2. The Adirondacks | New York

The Adirondacks in New York is a great spot for a late summer motorcycle trip. This region is known for its large forests, peaceful lakes, and scenic roads that offer a relaxing ride. One of the highlights is Adirondack Park, the largest protected area in the contiguous United States. With over six million acres to explore, there’s plenty of room for adventure.

Riders can enjoy routes like the Adirondack Northway, which provides views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. Lake Placid, a village within the Adirondacks, is a great stop for its Olympic history, local shops, and nice dining spots. You can also ride around Lake George, which is perfect for a leisurely cruise and offers activities like boating and fishing.

Late summer weather in the Adirondacks is ideal for riding, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The region also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring small towns with local charm. Be sure to visit the High Peaks region for some of the best mountain views and to experience the true beauty of the Adirondacks.

The Adirondacks provide a mix of natural scenery and relaxing rides, making it an excellent destination to visit before the end of summer. This area is perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful escape while soaking in the views and outdoor activities.

3. The Great Lakes Circle Tour | Michigan and Wisconsin

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a great late-summer motorcycle trip route. It takes you through Michigan and Wisconsin along the shores of the Great Lakes, offering amazing water views and plenty of cool stops along the way.

Starting in Michigan, you can ride around Lake Michigan, going through towns like Traverse City and Mackinaw City. In Traverse City, you can check out local wineries and enjoy the views of the bay, while in Mackinaw City you can catch a ferry to Mackinac Island, where you’ll have a chance to explore historic sites and experience the island’s unique atmosphere.

As you continue into Wisconsin, you'll pass through small towns and scenic countryside. Door County is a must-see, known for its lighthouses, cherry orchards, and parks along the shore. There are plenty of spots to stop, stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or just enjoy the view.

The late summer weather around the Great Lakes is usually perfect for riding, and it's the best time to go before the harsh winters of Michigan and Wisconsin set in. The route combines great scenery and interesting places to visit, making it an ideal ride before winter arrives. Bring your camera to capture the lake views and memorable moments. The Great Lakes Circle Tour is an awesome way to wrap up your summer riding season with a mix of adventure and relaxation.

4. The Black Hills | South Dakota

Riding through the Black Hills in South Dakota is an experience you don't want to miss before summer ends. This area offers some of the best motorcycle routes, combining stunning natural landscapes with a sense of freedom and adventure. The weather is perfect for riding, and the roads are in great condition, making for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

One of the top highlights is the famous Needles Highway, a 14-mile stretch that winds through granite spires, pine forests, and narrow tunnels. This road offers an exciting ride with plenty of twists and turns. Another must-ride route is the Iron Mountain Road, known for its pigtail bridges, tunnels, and incredible views of Mount Rushmore.

The Black Hills are also home to Sturgis, a town known for its annual motorcycle rally. Even if you visit outside of rally time, the town has a rich motorcycle culture and plenty of spots to check out, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame.

You’ll also find plenty of places to stop and explore, like Custer State Park, where you can see bison and other wildlife up close. The park has great picnic spots and hiking trails if you want to take a break from riding.

Riding through the Black Hills offers a mix of scenic views, thrilling roads, and interesting stops. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your summer riding season before the winter chill sets in. Make sure to add this destination to your must-ride list.

Want a Local to Show You Around When You Arrive?

These destinations have more riding than most visitors can plan on their own, and knowing which routes to combine and where to stop takes local knowledge. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across the country, led by riders who know the roads in places like Colorado, the Blue Ridge, and beyond. If you'd rather follow someone who's done these routes than spend your first day figuring out directions, a guided tour is a great way to see more of what each destination has to offer.

5. White Mountains | New Hampshire

Next on the list are the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This region is known for its incredible landscapes and great roads, making it a fantastic place to ride.

One of the best routes is the Kancamagus Highway, a 34-mile byway that offers amazing views of the mountains, rivers, and forests. The road has plenty of twists and turns, which definitely helps in making it an exciting ride. Along the way, you can stop at the many overlooks and take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you.

Another highlight is the Mount Washington Auto Road, a ride that takes you up to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. The views from the top are incredible, and the ride up is an adventure in itself.

There are also plenty of towns to explore in the White Mountains, like North Conway, which has great dining options, local shops, and places to stay. You can also find hiking trails and picnic spots throughout the region, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the area.

Late summer is the ideal time to visit the White Mountains, as the weather is comfortable and the fall foliage is just starting to turn. This area provides a perfect mix of great rides, interesting stops, and outdoor activities, making it a great destination before the colder months arrive.

6. Acadia National Park | Maine

For an unforgettable ride, check out Acadia National Park in Maine. This park has a mix of coastal and mountain views that are perfect for a motorcycle trip.

One of the top routes to explore is the Park Loop Road, a 27-mile ride that takes you through some of the most amazing parts of the park. You'll ride along the coastline, through forests, and past lakes. The road is well-maintained and has plenty of spots where you can stop and enjoy the view.

Acadia is also home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. You can ride up to the top for a great view of the park and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a perfect spot to catch the sunrise or sunset.

Don’t miss Bar Harbor, a nearby town with great restaurants, shops, and places to stay. You can also take a boat tour to see the coastline from a different perspective.

Late summer is a great time to visit Acadia because the weather is still warm and the park isn’t as crowded as in peak season. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the early signs of fall color. Make sure to add Acadia National Park to your list for an incredible ride before the colder weather sets in.

7. Lake Champlain Byway | Vermont

If you’re looking for a great ride before summer ends, check out the Lake Champlain Byway in Vermont. This route has awesome lake views, rolling hills, and cool small towns that make for a relaxing and fun trip.

The byway runs along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, so you get plenty of chances to stop and take in the scenery. You’ll pass through Burlington, a town with local shops to explore, good spots to eat, and a nice waterfront area. And if you’re interested in great breweries and a vibrant arts scene, you’d be in the right place.

Further along the route, you'll hit Shelburne, a historic town worth a stop. You can visit the Shelburne Museum, which has a mix of old buildings and cool exhibits, or check out Shelburne Farms, where you can learn about sustainable farming and enjoy the landscape.

The roads are in good shape, with smooth surfaces and gentle curves, making for an easy and enjoyable ride. Late summer is the best time to visit because the weather is perfect, and you might even see some early fall colors starting to show.

There are plenty of places to stop for a break, whether it’s for a picnic by the lake or a short hike to stretch your legs. The Lake Champlain Byway offers a great mix of beautiful views and interesting places to check out, so make sure to add this to your list of locations to visit before the summer ends!

8. Blue Ridge Parkway | North Carolina and Virginia

Known as America’s Favorite Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia is a ride you don't want to miss before summer ends. This route has over 400 miles of beautiful views and winding roads—music to a motorcyclist’s ears.

Starting in Virginia, you’ll ride through the Blue Ridge Mountains, with lots of overlooks and picnic spots to enjoy. You’ll see rolling hills, forests, and open meadows. One great stop in this area is the Blue Ridge Music Center, where you can catch live music and learn about the region’s musical roots.

As you continue into North Carolina, the scenery gets even better. Don’t miss the Linn Cove Viaduct, a road that curves around the mountainside. You can also take a side trip to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, for some amazing views.

Along the parkway, you’ll find visitor centers, hiking trails, and small towns with good places to eat and chat with other travelers. The speed limit is lower here, making it a relaxing ride where you can really enjoy the sights.

Late summer is the perfect time to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway. The weather is great, and you might start to see some early fall colors. It’s an awesome way to wrap up your summer riding season with some of the best views and roads in the country.

Plan One Last Summer Ride with a Motorcycle Rental from Riders Share

Don’t let summer slip away without one last epic ride. With Riders Share, you can easily find the perfect motorcycle rental for your next adventure. Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway or an extended road trip, we offer a wide variety of bikes to suit any motorcycle trip. Explore new destinations and make unforgettable memories by booking your motorcycle rental today.