Top Motorcycle Rides In California
California’s diverse landscapes offer some of the most spectacular motorcycle riding experiences in the United States, sharing borders with Oregon’s scenic routes to the north, Nevada’s desert highways to the east, and Arizona’s stunning roads to the southeast. Each neighboring state adds its own unique flavor to the regional riding experience.
1. Riding the Iconic Pacific Coast Highway
The crown jewel of California’s motorcycle routes stretches 656 miles along the Pacific coastline. This legendary highway offers:
- Breathtaking ocean vistas
- Iconic Golden Gate Bridge crossing
- Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs
- Access to Redwoods National Park
- Historic coastal towns and landmarks
2. Taking on the Adventures of Joshua Tree
Experience the desert’s majesty through:
- Otherworldly Joshua tree forests
- Dramatic rock formations
- Desert oasis stops
- Pristine federal highways
- Stunning sunrise/sunset rides
3. Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2)
- This 66-mile technical marvel through the San Gabriel Mountains showcases:
- Professional-grade riding conditions
- Challenging switchbacks
- Dramatic elevation changes
- Mount Wilson Observatory access
- Newcomb’s Ranch – popular rider meetup
4. California Route 33
A 70-mile stretch from Ventura into Los Padres National Forest featuring:
- Minimal traffic on weekdays
- Sweeping mountain curves
- Pristine chaparral landscapes
- Pine Mountain Saddle views
- Cuyama Valley vistas
6. Palomar Mountain Road
This 30-mile technical route in San Diego County offers:
- Access to Palomar Observatory
- Famous “South Grade” twisties
- Lake Henshaw panoramas
- Dense mountain forests
- Technical riding challenges
Must-Ride California Routes
1. Big Sur Coast Ride
The iconic 127-mile coastal journey includes:
- Dramatic Pacific cliffs
- Hidden beaches and coves
- Redwood groves
- Historic bridges
- Whale watching opportunities
2. Redwood Highway Loop
This 192-mile northern California adventure features:
- Ancient redwood forests
- Avenue of the Giants
- Coastal fog-shrouded roads
- Small-town charm
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
3. Klamath River Highway (CA-96)
This 62-mile northern California gem offers:
- Riverside twisties
- Pristine wilderness views
- Native American cultural sites
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Well-maintained pavement
For riders venturing beyond California’s borders, Washington state offers remarkable Pacific Northwest scenery, while Utah’s red rock country provides dramatic desert landscapes. Moving south, Arizona’s motorcycle routes through the Grand Canyon state complement California’s diverse riding opportunities. Before heading out, be sure to familiarize yourself with California’s motorcycle laws to ensure a safe and legal riding experience.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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