Three destinations offer some of the best scenic motorcycle rides in Pacific Northwest states. When diversity in landscapes, challenging roadways, and back road beauty are on your agenda for Pacific Northwest motorcycle trips, consider heading to Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
1. The Lolo Pass
Location: Idaho
Distance: 175 miles
Time to Ride: Full Day
For one of the best motorcycle rides in Idaho this 175-mile route along the Lewis & Clark Trail offers riders some of the most beautiful landscapes and mountain vistas to experience. The lengthy pass has motorcyclists weaving their way through the twists and turns provided by the expanse of the Rocky Mountains running through Montana and Idaho. Take your time while traveling through the Lolo National Forest, Nez Perce Reservation, and Nez Perce – Clearwater National Forest to enjoy the natural beauty of the forest, which includes natural hot springs. The Selway and Lochsa rivers running through the area have become popular destinations for whitewater rafting.
For those looking for a great place to stop over for a night or two, the Lochsa Lodge is situated along the Lochsa River and offers cozy cabins, a restaurant, and a tavern.
2. St. Joe River Scenic Byway
Location: Idaho
Distance: 100 miles
Time to Ride: Full Day
Rider enthusiasts who are always on the hunt for back roads traveling through a quiet and scenic landscape will find all those features along the St. Joe River Scenic Byway. The 100+ miles of natural scenery is filled with forest and mountain views and rushing rivers while navigating the many twists, curves, and elevation changes along the byway.
The road is not heavily trafficked, and it is not unusual for the road to be deserted. Expect high elevations, high drop-offs over road edges, tight corners, and a hardpack gravel surface when driving through the Montana portion.
3. The Idaho/Montana Scenic Triangle Loop
Location: Idaho & Montana
Distance: 314 miles
Time to Ride: Full Day
Enjoy the best of two states with this 314-mile loop that touches on areas of the Flathead National Forest and the Kootenai National Forest. From beginning to end, the loop is a visual smorgasbord that is sure to please avid motorcyclists. Throughout the area, there are different eco-systems, from wetlands and mountains to canyons and rivers.
While traveling the twisting road, there are a variety of things to see, such as unforgettable views of the Panhandle National Forest, breathtaking views from Thompsons Pass, mountain valleys and peaks, and views of the Clark Fork and Kootenai rivers and Lake Pend Oreille. Be aware of wildlife, such as deer, moose, and elk, which cross the route. There are plenty of places to stop along the loop for good food and drink, such as the Sprag Pole in Murray.
4. The Devil’s Tail
Location: Oregon
Distance: 22 miles
Time to Ride: One Hour
One of the best motorcycle rides in Oregon is the 22-mile Devil’s Tail located in Hells Canyon. The canyon has the distinction as being the deepest in North America, even when compared to the Grand Canyon. The road is impressive as it forms one wall of Hells Canyon and serves as the base for the Seven Devils Mountains. It is a scenic wonder and a challenge to ride, with hundreds of turns and twists to navigate along with rises and dips in elevation. The Hells Canyon Visitor Center is available after passing the Hells Canyon Dam, where you can take a break and get a soda. Before heading out, fill up the tank. There are no gas stations along the way.
5. Portland to Sumpter
Location: Oregon
Distance: 350 miles
Time to Ride: Full Day
The Portland to Sumpter ride is like a scenic postcard with Mt. Hood standing majestically in the background while motorcyclists meander through the many picturesque landscapes. Over the estimated 350-mile trek, you’ll travel through farmland, canyons, and mountain roads, past gurgling rivers, and mining towns searching for gold while making your way to the small town of Sumpter.
6. Columbia River Highway Scenic Route
Location: Oregon
Distance: 95 miles
Time to Ride: Half Day
Enjoy 95 miles of world-class highway along this scenic route that laces its way around Mt. Hood, along the Columbia River, and through Mt. Hood National Forest. The historical route has ties to the explorer’s Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trail. While driving through the forest, keep an eye out for resident wildlife, crystal clear waterfalls, and colorful wildflowers in the spring.
The route includes the Mount Hood information center, Wildwood Recreation Site, Rhododendron Gardens, and Timberline Lodge at the base of Mount Hood. The historical building was constructed during the Great Depression. Park your bike and take the chairlift to the top. The ride also takes you past the Columbia, Hood, and Salmon rivers, and the historical town of The Dalles, Panorama Point for excellent views, the Mount Hood Railroad in the town of Hood River and take a 44-mile journey through the scenic valley. There are also photo opportunities at Maltnomah Falls, and a stop at Crown Point State Park to see views from atop the 700-foot volcanic rock.
7. McKenzie Highway
Location: Oregon
Distance: 37 miles
Time to Ride: One Hour
Your ride over 37 miles along the McKenzie Highway is a treat for outdoor enthusiasts. Pass evergreen forests thick with statuesque trees, then continue through the mountain pass where the horizon is dotted with volcanoes. The mountain pass also takes you through a lava flow field for a unique riding experience. The ride is scenic and offers plenty of distractions, but speed limits are set between 35 mph to 45 mph. Be on the lookout for gravel from the hillside interacting with the highway surface.
Once you reach the top, you can see the many mountain peaks via the observation wall. It is also possible from this location to take a hike through a field of lava. Be sure to fuel up both yourself and your bike before accessing the highway, as there are no stops for food or gas along the way.
8. The Klickitat Loop
Location: Washington
Distance: 80 miles
Time to Ride: Few Hours
The 80-mile jaunt around the Klickitat Loop is ideal for motorcyclists who just want to ride, free as a breeze, without a lot of distractions, which includes traffic. The loop has straightaways for cruising, plenty of switchbacks, and areas with tight twists to keep you engaged. Like many areas, there is resident wildlife and other animals with access to the open range loop.
9. Whidbey Island Wonder
Location: Washington
Distance: 54 miles
Time to Ride: Half Day
Combine two modes of transportation on this 54-mile excursion, which includes a 20-minute ferry ride, with your bike, across Possession Sound to reach the island.
Once you arrive on the island, enjoy the ride, which includes plenty of twists and curves. From Whidbey Island heading north to Anacortes, there are small towns along the way. Some of the things to see and do include South Whidbey Island State Park, Deception Pass State Park, and Whidbey Island Vineyards and Winery for a little rest and refreshment.
10. Spirit Lake Highway
Location: Washington
Distance: 51 miles
Time to Ride: One Hour
For water lovers, the Spirit Lake Highway offers plenty of refreshing views of lakes and rivers along the 51-mile highway. Along with Spirit Lake, there’s also Coldwater Lake and Silver Lake. The ride begins in Castle Rock, where there are plenty of choices to dine and fuel up before heading out.
The highway offers a nice day’s ride with clear views and an open road to travel. At the end of the highway, plan to stop and visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory if you are riding in the area anytime from mid-May to October and check out the views of Mount St. Helens, listen to interpretive talks and programs, and walk along one of the trails.
Some of the best scenic motorcycle rides in Pacific Northwest states offer routes for all skill levels and experience. Whether new to extended riding adventures or a seasoned cyclist with years of experience. Before taking to one of these scenic and often remote highways, be prepared to be challenged with the unexpected, such as sharp curves, steep drop offs, different road surfaces, hills to climb and descend, rockslides, changing elevations, and wildlife crossings.