California isn’t just another place to ride. It’s the stage.
Every mile is a prompt, whether buzzing around Los Angeles or San Diego,. The coastline dares you to slow down. The desert dares you to keep going. The mountains whisper that you’re small and then reward you for showing up.
This isn’t about checking boxes on a map. It’s about the story you’ll tell when you’re back home. The kind of story that starts with “I rode through Big Sur at sunrise” or “I leaned into the switchbacks above LA" or "I conquered Death Valley." It's no wonder riders travel here from around the globe to rent motorcycles and experience the Golden State.
Riders don’t come here for roads. They come here for transformation. And California, more than anywhere else, delivers it—ten routes at a time.
1. Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway, which runs 790 miles from San Diego all the way to the Oregon border, is the ultimate California motorcycle road trip.
It's a bucket-list ride for a reason. Imagine cruising along the Pacific coastline, the ocean breeze in your face. Winding through beach towns and rugged cliffs. Stopping at lookouts over the crashing surf.
The stretch through Big Sur is particularly breathtaking, regardless if you’re riding a Harley cruiser or a Ducati Multistrada. The highway clings to the cliffs, with the Santa Lucia mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. It's a challenging ride, with hairpin turns and narrow shoulders.
But the views are worth it.
You'll see waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, towering redwoods, and pristine beaches. Take your time and soak it all in. Stop at the iconic Bixby Bridge for a photo op.
Grab lunch at the cliffside Nepenthe Restaurant for stunning views. The PCH is a ride you'll never forget. It's the quintessential California motorcycle experience.
2. Angeles Crest Highway
If you're looking for a technical ride with endless twists and turns, look no further than the Angeles Crest Highway. This 66-mile stretch of asphalt snakes through the San Gabriel Mountains, reaching elevations of over 7,000 feet. It's a favorite among sport bike riders for its challenging curves and sweeping vistas.
The road starts in La Cañada Flintridge, just outside of Los Angeles where some of our top renters are located, such as Ari Henning and MotoCalifornia. From there, it climbs into the Angeles National Forest, offering stunning views of the LA basin and the Mojave Desert.
The first 30 miles are the most technical, with tight switchbacks and hairpin turns. It's not for the faint of heart. But if you've got the skills, it's an adrenaline rush like no other. Stop at Newcomb's Ranch for a break and a bite to eat.
It's a popular spot for motorcyclists to swap stories and admire each other's bikes. The Angeles Crest Highway is a test of your riding abilities. But the views and the thrill of the ride make it all worth it.
3. Palomar Mountain
Palomar Mountain is a hidden gem in Southern California. It's a favorite among local riders but often overlooked by tourists.
The ride up the mountain is a series of tight curves and switchbacks, climbing over 5,000 feet in elevation. The road is well-maintained, and the turns are predictable, making it a joy to ride. At the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the ocean.
Take a break at the Palomar Mountain State Park and hike some of the trails. The park is home to the Palomar Observatory, which houses the famous Hale Telescope.
The ride down the mountain is just as fun as the ride up. The curves seem to flow together effortlessly, allowing you to find your rhythm.
Palomar Mountain is a must-ride for any motorcyclist in Southern California. It's a hidden treasure that's worth seeking out.
4. Sacramento River Delta
If you're looking for a more relaxed ride with plenty of scenery, check out the Sacramento River Delta. This network of waterways and levee roads is a favorite among cruiser riders. The roads are flat and straight, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the view.
The delta is home to numerous small towns and marinas, each with its own unique character. Stop at one of the many restaurants along the water for some fresh seafood and a cold drink. Take a detour to the Brannan Island State Recreation Area for a picnic and a swim. The park offers stunning views of the delta and the surrounding farmland.
The Sacramento River Delta is a great place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of motorcycling. It reminds us that sometimes the best rides are the ones where you can relax and take in the scenery.
5. June Lake Loop
The June Lake Loop is a scenic ride in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a popular destination for motorcyclists looking to escape the heat of the summer. The loop takes you past four pristine alpine lakes, each with its own unique character.
June Lake is the largest and most developed, with plenty of restaurants and lodging options. The ride itself is a mix of sweeping curves and tight turns, with stunning views of the mountains and the lakes.
The road is well-maintained, and traffic is usually light. Take a detour to June Lake Beach for a swim and a picnic. The beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
The June Lake Loop is a hidden gem that's often overlooked by riders heading to more popular destinations like Yosemite. But trust me, it's worth the detour.
6. Yuba Pass to Sierra Valley
The ride from Yuba Pass to Sierra Valley takes motorcyclists through the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering stunning views of the rugged landscape and a chance to experience the region's rich history and natural beauty.
As you wind your way through the Sierra Nevada on Highway 49, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The road itself is a joy to ride, with plenty of twists and turns to keep things interesting.
One of the highlights of this route is the chance to stop and explore some of the historic towns along the way, like Downieville and Sierra City.
These charming communities offer a glimpse into the region's gold rush past, with well-preserved buildings and friendly locals who are always happy to share a story or two.
7. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park, located in Eastern California, offers a unique and challenging riding experience with its vast desert landscapes, winding roads, and extreme temperatures.
This route is best suited for experienced riders looking for an adventure off the beaten path. We'd recommend an ADV like the BMW R 1250 GS or a Honda Africa Twin.
One of the most iconic rides in Death Valley is the trip to Dante's View, which offers panoramic views of the park from an elevation of over 5,000 feet.
The road to the viewpoint is a thrilling climb, with hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that will get your heart racing. Another must-see destination in the park is Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level.
The ride to the basin takes you through some of the most desolate and otherworldly landscapes you'll ever see, with towering salt flats and jagged rock formations stretching out as far as the eye can see.
8. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, located in Southern California, is known for its unique desert landscape and winding roads that offer a challenging and scenic ride. This route is perfect for those looking to escape the city and experience the beauty of the high desert.
As you ride through Joshua Tree National Park, you'll be surrounded by the park's namesake trees, which are actually a type of yucca plant that can grow up to 40 feet tall. The twisting roads that wind through the park are a motorcyclist's dream, with plenty of opportunities to lean into the curves and open up the throttle.
One of the best times to visit Joshua Tree is in the spring, when the desert comes alive with wildflowers and the temperatures are mild.
But no matter when you go, you'll find plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the park's hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and scenic viewpoints.
9. Rock Creek Road to Mammoth Lakes
The ride from Rock Creek Road to Mammoth Lakes takes motorcyclists through the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. It offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and a chance to experience the region's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
As you head out on Rock Creek Road, you'll quickly leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and find yourself immersed in the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra. The road winds its way through towering pine forests and along babbling mountain streams, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
One of the highlights of this route is the chance to visit Mammoth Lakes, a year-round outdoor paradise that offers everything from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
The town itself is a charming mountain community with plenty of great restaurants, shops, and lodging options.
10. Lake Berryessa to Napa Valley
The ride from Lake Berryessa to Napa Valley offers a perfect blend of winding roads, stunning scenery, and world-class wineries. This route is ideal for those looking to combine their love of motorcycling with a taste of California's famous wine country, so make sure to book a hotel and enjoy!
As you set out from Lake Berryessa, you'll be treated to stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes.
The road eventually leads you into the heart of Napa Valley, where you'll find yourself surrounded by rolling vineyards and picturesque wineries.
One of the best things about this route is the chance to stop and sample some of the region's famous wines, with many wineries offering tastings and tours for visitors. When you're ready to take a break from the saddle, you'll find plenty of great restaurants and lodging options in the charming towns of Napa and Sonoma.
Whether you're a wine aficionado or just looking for a scenic ride through some of California's most beautiful countryside, the route from Lake Berryessa to Napa Valley is sure to satisfy you. So grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and get ready to raise a glass to the open road.
FAQs
What is the best motorcycle ride in California?
The Pacific Coast Highway tops the list. Stretching nearly 800 miles, it delivers cliffside views, ocean breezes, and world-famous Big Sur scenery.
When is the best time to ride in California?
Spring and fall are ideal. The weather is mild, the mountain passes are open, and the desert heat is manageable. Winter can limit access to high elevations.
Is lane splitting legal in California?
Yes. California is the only U.S. state where lane splitting is legal. Riders must practice it safely and follow CHP guidelines.
Do I need a specific type of bike for California routes?
Not always. Cruisers excel on coastal roads, while ADV bikes are better for Death Valley and mountain passes. Rentals are available statewide.
Why do riders travel to California from around the world?
California offers an unmatched variety—coast, desert, forests, and mountains—all accessible in a single trip. The mix of iconic scenery and technical roads is unique.
