Best Motorcycle Roads and Destinations in California USA

With a lot of motorcycle riding comes the urge to explore the best routes, roads and destinations that one can experience.

That’s why we present the best motorcycle roads and destinations in the Golden Bear State, i.e. California.

Table of Contents

1. Why California?
2. State Laws for Motorcycle Riding in California

2.1 Helmet Mandate
2.2 Mechanical and Equipment Fines
2.3 Insurance
2.4 Lane Splitting

3. Best Motorcycle Luggage Options
4. Best Motorcycle Roads and Destinations in California

4.1 Highway 1 Pacific Coast
4.2 Mulholland Highway (The Snake to The Rock Store in LA)
4.3 Mount Baldy
4.4 Decker Canyon Road
4.5 Out to Route 66 Classic Grill
4.6 Malibu Canyon
4.7 Carrizo Plain
4.8 Joshua Tree
4.9 Griffith Park
4.10 Ventura County Loop
4.11 Palomar Mountain Loop
4.12 Highway 74 (Ortega Highway)
4.13 Montezuma Valley Road
4.14 Death Valley
4.15 Los Angeles Crest Highway
4.16 Woodlake into Sequoia National Forest
4.17 Big Bear
4.18 Redwood Ride
4.19 Conzelman Road
4.20 San Gabriel Canyon Road
4.21 Paso Robles to Big Sur Coastline
4.22 Highway 94
4.23 Idyllwild
4.24 Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway (CA - 168)
4.25 California Route 33
4.26 Rim of the World Scenic Byway

1. Why California?

Best Motorcycle Roads and Destinations in California USA

With almost a million on-road registered motorcycles in the state, there’s a motorcycle for every 47 people in California.

This totals to almost 1 million motorcycles that are ridden daily in the state. And who knows how many people pass through or visit California on their motorcycles every day?

As motorcyclists, we understand that a motorcycle ride isn’t just to get from one place to another. There’s so much to be experienced on a motorcycle adventure that daily commuters just can’t relate to.

Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of high speeds, the gorgeous beauty of the Golden Bear State or just a pristine, peaceful experience that you’re looking for, read on below to find the best roads and destinations in California!

We understand that not all roads are the best for motorcycles. If you go to a place in your car, it will never be the same as going to it on your motorcycle.

On that note, the Golden State has some of the most iconic motorcycle roads and destinations that are recognized around the world as must-visits.

That’s why we’ve taken the time out to mention all the best motorcycle roads and destinations in California for our readers to enjoy.

However, before we get into the trips, there are some basics you need to know before you hop on that beast and travel around.

This includes tips for making sure that you’re carrying the right motorcycle luggage bags and the laws you need to follow when in the state.

So, let’s start by taking a look at the state laws you need to abide by while in California:

2. State Laws for Motorcycle Riding in California

California laws clearly state that no unregistered motorcycle can be driven in the state.

Moreover, riders under the age of 21 can’t carry passengers, drive on the freeway and can’t drive at night.

2.1 Helmet Mandate

You might not require a helmet in other states or you might be the type to not prefer a helmet. Either way, in California, everyone needs to wear one.

That includes passengers as well. This also includes people who might claim their windshields or goggles are enough. Along with those who claim helmets take away peripheral vision.

As per the law, you’re required to wear a helmet that meets the safety requirements and is endorsed by the Department of Transportation.

You need the helmet with a DOT verification sticker on its back that ensures your helmet is safe and reliable.

Riders wearing helmets that are not compliant with the DOT’s regulations and safety standards will be fined as such.

(California Vehicle Code, VC, 27803)

2.2 Mechanical and Equipment Fines

You need to make sure that the following parts of your motorcycle are in perfect condition at all times:

Headlights and Taillights (mandated)
Front and Rear Turn Signals (mandated)
Muffler (mandated)
Brake Light (mandated)
Mirrors on Each Side (mandated)
Horn (mandated)
Brakes (recommended)
Clutch and Throttle (recommended)
Kick-Stand (recommended)
Tires (recommended)
Fluids (recommended)

California takes motorcycle modifications seriously. For example, you can’t have handlebars that elevate your hands six inches above your shoulders.

Your motorcycle’s emission limiters can’t be tampered with. These include your bike’s tailpipes, exhaust systems, fuel tanks and lines in sensitive areas.

Your motorcycle should contain at least one but not more than 2 headlamps. Additionally, you can’t have headlamp modulators.

Lastly, you can’t have a seat position that makes it difficult for your feet to touch the ground.

2.3 Insurance

The state of California is also strict when it comes to insurance. Since accidents happen all the time, the law states that the driver must carry at least:

$5,000 for property damage coverage
$15,000 for bodily injury coverage for individuals
$30,000 for bodily injuries for multiple people.

This basically translates into a year-long suspension of your license for not having insurance.

2.4 Lane Splitting

We all believe it logical that a motorcyclist doesn’t necessarily have to behave like a car in a traffic jam.

This is where motorcyclists hate the states that don’t allow lane splitting, i.e. going in between lanes.

Well, California has declared lane splitting legal. Moreover, the law also states that it’s illegal to intentionally block or impede a motorcyclist in a way that could cause them harm.

This includes opening a door to block a motorcyclist’s way.

Moreover, drivers are required to move to the far-left side of their lane whenever a motorcyclist is behind them and needs room.

However, this doesn’t mean you can just waltz on through, even in usual traffic. As per the law:

Motorcyclists can’t lane split when the traffic is moving at 30mph or above.
They are required to signal their intentions to all drivers before making a move.
Motorcyclists can’t ride on the shoulder of a road or freeway.
Can’t travel at a speed that’s more than 10 mph higher/faster than other traffic.

3. Best Motorcycle Luggage Options

It’s almost impossible to overestimate the importance of motorcycle luggage bags.

Whether you’re a daily adventurer or a traveler through the state, it’s best that you consider having sufficient luggage bags for the trips below.

That’s because some of them can even take days and you wouldn’t want to carry everything on your back all the time.

For this purpose, we recommend trying out the following motorcycle luggage options:

4. Best Motorcycle Roads and Destinations in California

4.1 Highway 1 Pacific Coast

Distance: 135 miles.

Time: Almost 3 hours.

Every motorcyclist in the US will recommend going down Highway 1 for at least 100 miles if not the whole 1200-mile route just to get a glimpse of the mesmerizing horizons.

While it offers glorious views spread across the picturesque coastline, the route is also ideal for motorcyclists looking for a riding experience.

Keep following the famous Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast and experience some of the most breathtaking sceneries from the edge of the world.

4.2 Mulholland Highway (The Snake to The Rock Store in LA)

Distance: 26 miles.

Time: Almost 40 minutes.

One of the most famous rides of the state, Mulholland Highway has earned its reputation in the motorcycle world.

The road comprises some of the sharpest turns and twists that keep a rider preoccupied.

Needless to say, even though the scenery is worth taking in, riders seldom go for the serenity.

Everyone wants to ride the Snake to the Rock Store.

Also known as the Rock Store Run, the Mulholland Highway takes you to the only ‘roadside amenity’ in the area, i.e., the Rock Store.

This store is made entirely out of volcanic rock and was a grocery store before motorcyclists came around.

Now, this place is the only one in the area you’ll find every biker hanging out in.

You can find pictures of celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger who also visit whenever they’re riding.

4.3 Mount Baldy

Distance: 27 miles.

Time: 52 minutes.

Who doesn’t like roller coaster rides? That’s exactly what Mount Baldy is for motorcyclists.

Promising elevations up to 6500 ft, just take the mountains above Pasadena and you’ll be done in under an hour.

Enjoy the crazy twisties winding up and down the mountain as you take in the mesmerizing beauty of the natural scene.

You can find eateries and cafes in Mount Baldy, the town. We recommend taking the Glendora Mountain Road.

4.4 Decker Canyon Road

Distance: 10.7 miles.

Time: 20 minutes.

Decker Canyon is a ride you’ll never forget. Whether you have two wheels or four, you won’t be able to resist the urge to tackle those turns and twists.

CA Highway 23 or Decker Canyon Road spans almost 5 miles between the Pacific Coast Highway and Mulholland Highway.

While the speed limit is 30mph, don’t think you have to keep going that fast. Believe riders when they tell you that it’s dangerous to go fast.

Besides, you wouldn’t want to ruin your experience of enjoying the smooth curves, half-mile straights, radius sweepers that decrease constantly, and the elevation changes to make you change the throttle.

4.5 Out to Route 66 Classic Grill

Distance: 51 miles.

Time: Almost 75 minutes.

The Route 66 Classic Grill is a classic diner that resembles a style from the 1950s.

This venue has been the center of attention for motorcyclists around the country. It’s almost impossible for a biker to be on Soledad Canyon Road and not visit the Route 66 Classic Grill.

The motorcycle route in this area of Santa Clarita blasts you down Little Tujunga Road and through the Angeles National Forest all the way to the San Gabriel Mountains.

4.6 Malibu Canyon

Distance: 110 miles.

Time: 3h 10 minutes.

The Malibu Canyon is popular because of the Malibu Creek state park that offers great motorcycle camping opportunities.

For riders, this canyon comes with ocean views far and wide along with lush green landscapes.

Although it’s hard to resist the urge to speed through the canyons, be careful because the areas heavily patrolled.

We recommend taking in the scenery and following the speed limits to have the best experience.

Let the ride take you through the twists and turns as the scenery unravels before you.

4.7 Carrizo Plain

Distance: 171 miles.

Time: 3h 15 minutes.

The Carrizo Plain is a gorgeous destination that demands a little effort.

You will have to take Highway 33 located near Ojai and ride up all the way to the Carrizo Plain.

Make sure to stop at Ojai Valley if you don’t want to miss out on the amazing views that it is famous for.

Carrizo Plain is one of the last remaining undeveloped (or untouched) natural sights in the state.

We also recommend packing camping gear in your motorcycle luggage to spend a night under the stars.

4.8 Joshua Tree

Distance: 141 miles.

Time: 3h 1 minutes.

Starting from Los Angeles, you can head over to Joshua Tree in 3 hours if you take the freeway right up till you slide off the CA 62.

After that, you can take the 29 Palms Highway that will consist of a thin road that has low speed limits.

Once you’re here, make sure to take in the unending and overwhelming desert wilderness.

It is said that it spans almost 800,000 acres. This means that you have more than enough space to camp anywhere you want.

While Joshua Tree will still be a bit far away, the route to the place is what you’re aiming to experience.

4.9 Griffith Park

Distance: 15 miles.

Time: 45 minutes.

Head over to Los Angeles and experience one of the smoothest and scenic rides in the city.

Make your way to the Griffith Observatory and enjoy the mountainous scenery along the way. Once you’re there, you’ll find the motorcycle bays (they’ll be marked right next to the car park)

Bikers are always in disagreement as to whether the route from the North or the South is better.

The ones in favor of the Northern route claim the leafy green stretch is the best.

Once you pass the abandoned zoo and turn right into Crystal Springs Drive, you’ll reach Hillhurst Boulevard.

The observatory hosts the most spectacular view you’ll ever witness in the area. So, make sure you have plenty of time to sit back and relax.

4.10 Ventura County Loop

Distance: 343 miles.

Time: 7 hours.

This is another long trip that will require hours of riding as you circle one of the most gorgeous counties in the Golden Bear State.

Although some shorter variants of the ride involve only 200 miles, we’ve added an extra feat.

This will allow you to explore more than just the mesmerizing sceneries of Los Padres National Forest and the breathtaking ocean views of Santa Maria.

While the trip covers a lot of distance, you can be sure that it’s more than just the views that you’re riding for.

You’ll find Highway 33 to contain some of the best turns and twists that will demand expertise from even the most experienced bikers.

We recommend going slow and taking motorcycle camping luggagewith you to minimize exhaustion and fatigue chances.

4.11 Palomar Mountain Loop

Distance: 35 miles.

Time: 1h 33 minutes.

Right off the bat, this road is deemed one of the most technical roads in Southern California.

This is why it is only recommended for the experienced bunch. Each year, almost 30 riders are either critically injured or killed on this road.

Even professional bikers won’t have the chance to take in the jaw-dropping scenes that surround them.

The route will take you through the San Diego County Road 6 which is by far the most favorite part of every biker.

Those who want to look at the pristine sky and gorgeous sceneries should make a stop along the side to do so.

Once you make it through the Cleveland National Forest, you’ll also pass by the Palomar Mountain Observatory.

Expect consecutive hairpin turns followed by decreasing radius turns and a few smooth ones along with some long sweepers.

4.12 Highway 74 (Ortega Highway)

Distance: 118 miles.

Time: 2h 33 minutes.

Starting from Hemet, the Ortega Highway (74) offers scenic views of the pine forest as you transition towards the desert landscape near Indian Wells.

As soon as you head East from Hemet, you’ll notice the road twisting and turning into circles.

This will eventually lead to an elevated climb mixed with turns and twists as the road passes 371 and 74 intersections from Hemet.

You can expect the road to take you to a place many movie scenes have been recorded.

The only thing that a rider doesn’t want in their way after those twists is traffic because there’s nothing else that will hinder your way to the top.

While it may not all be smooth sailing, you can be sure that most of it will have you smiling through the turns.

Suffice it to say, 100 miles down the Ortega Highway is nothing less than pure ecstasy, to quote a friend.

4.13 Montezuma Valley Road

Distance: 168 miles.

Time: 3h 49 minutes.

Another long ride that suits all those who have had years on the road and are looking for awesome thrills with rewarding sceneries to remember is the Montezuma Valley Road.

This route promises a challenge for intermediate riders whereas, novices are encouraged not to try until and unless accompanied by a guide.

Make the most of the straight paths that you encounter near areas like Julian. Don’t make the mistake of throttling through the turns right after though.

The whole route is filled with crazy twists and turns with the terrain elevating and descending at each turn.

Whether you prefer a challenging ride, a naturally rehabilitating adventure or a combination of both, Montezuma Valley Run is the ride you want.

From La Mesa to Borrego Springs, you can choose to take any of the two routes to the destination if you’re not up for a round trip.

4.14 Death Valley

Distance: 349 miles.

Time: 7h 51 minutes.

Death Valley is by far one of the most anticipated rides in the life of every motorcyclist.

Nearly every American motorcyclist, regardless of whether they’ve ridden it or not, will definitely recommend Death Valley.

It’s one of the most common bucket list items that almost everyone wants to cross off.

While this trip is very long, we promise you it’ll be worth it if you take the right motorcycle luggage with you.

Experienced riders recommend taking the route during Spring.

The rugged mountains cape will be blooming with a plethora of wildflowers that will inevitably enhance an already amazing experience.

4.15 Los Angeles Crest Highway

Distance: 60 miles.

Time: Almost 90 minutes.

Take in the charming skylines and gorgeous greenery along the Los Angeles Crest Highway as it takes you through the San Gabriel Mountains.

It’s recommended that you don’t try it out unless you’re an experienced rider. This road comprises 66 of the most difficult miles a rider can drive through in the country.

A lot of people have lost their lives at various turns and twists. But that doesn’t stop riders from going up and down the highway every now and then.

Considered one of the most beautiful roads in America, the Crest Highway is definitely worth the trip.

4.16 Woodlake into Sequoia National Forest

Distance: 64 miles.

Time: 2h 14 minutes.

Sequoia National Forest is a gorgeous tourist attraction that is loved by locals. But not as much as it’s loved by motorcyclists.

Regarded as one of the most scenic roads in the country, traveling from Woodlake into the Sequoia National Forest will take you a little over 2 hours.

However, we recommend taking more time if you need to take in the scenic horizons and the green landscape you’ll be surrounded by.

Although you won’t be able to speed through the forest, it’s better this way as it’ll allow you a chance to focus on what’s around you.

4.17 Big Bear

Distance: 115 miles.

Time: 3h 22 minutes.

Big Bear is a name that is shared by the lake, the town around it, as well as the area that comprises it all.

However, when a motorcyclist says they’re going to Big Bear, you can be sure that they’re going all around it.

There are two routes that can take you to the top. Both these routes offer the most thrilling adventure you can experience.

Consisting of twists and turns that take you up to almost 6000 ft, you’ll have ample passing lanes to overtake slow traffic.

Make sure to not go during peak hours as the place attracts a massive number of tourists.

4.18 Redwood Ride

Distance: 133 miles.

Time: 2h 55 minutes.

These 133 miles will become 3 hours of an adventure that you’ll never be able to forget.

The Redwood Ride will take you from Highway 101 to the junction where you’ll take Highway 1.

Since there’s no way else to go but West, make your way there to find the beginning of your adventure.

You’ll experience twists and turns that come with jam-packed doses of awesome forest sceneries and if you’re out at the right time, gorgeous rays of the golden sun.

Some people prefer going to Hardy, CA and then making their way back the same way.

Whereas, others recommend going to Leggett, Hardy, Ford Brag all the way to Willits and back to Leggett via Highway 101.

In either case, this ride is recommended to everyone who wants an adventure of a lifetime.

4.19 Conzelman Road

Distance: 60 miles.

Time: 1h 28 minutes.

Conzelman Road has been referred to as a heavenly drive that takes you on a dreamy ride towards the coast.

Get ready for countless turns and twists that limit your speeds to an average of 20mph at max.

But that’s okay because you’re not doing it for the thrills. You’re doing it to ride through heaven and make the most of every gorgeous turn this route offers.

You don’t have a lot of traffic danger but the route demands ultimate control. We recommend inexperienced riders have a guide the first time around.

4.20 San Gabriel Canyon Road

Distance: 20 miles.

Time: Almost 40 minutes.

San Gabriel Canyon Road or CA39 is a flowing freeway that will take you through the Angeles National Forest all the way to the Crystal Lake Recreation Area.

Another name for this area is Azusa Canyon. These Rocky Mountains with paved roads that garnered a reputation make up one of the best rides in the state.

Just like other tourist traps, this route will also be swarming with traffic jams if you don’t time your trip right.

The raw mountain scenery available at the Crystal Lake Cafe is something you will probably never witness anywhere else. So, make the most of it while you’re there.

4.21 Paso Robles to Big Sur Coastline

Distance: 127 miles.

Time: 2h 51 minutes.

The route consists of a wine country, an ideal representation of all-natural beauty that exists in the region.

Take some time to rest beside Nacimiento and San Antonio Lakes and explore the area. It is known for its camping grounds and awesome landscape.

Once you’ve replenished yourself and are ready for adventure, shoot straight through the Hunter Ligget military base.

Make a left to find a creek that will take you through some of the most enjoyable turns and twists, at first.

Although the highlighted route is paved all the way, you can still find off-road trails here that will require extreme skill to tread.

Later on, you will encounter severe drop-offs right after you get through a nasty series of twists and turns.

This is why we only recommend experienced riders to go.

4.22 Highway 94

Distance: 63 miles.

Time: 1h 26 minutes.

You can start your trip from Spring Valley and get on Campo Road which is basically your start for Route 94.

Since you’re going southwest on the 94, you’ll eventually connect with Interstate 8.

The 94 runs along San Diego with the Mexican border.

Given the state of the fires that hit the area in recent years, the horizons are clear and panoramic.

It’s recommended to choose sunsets or sunrises as they’re perfect sceneries to witness along the way.

You can take a detour to the Otay Reservoir as shown on the map. This will take you to Otay Lakes Rd. Once you take a right there, 9 miles ahead is the reservoir.

Riders appreciate this 9-mile stretch and recommend it to everyone.

4.23 Idyllwild

Distance: 61 miles.

Time: 1h 35 minutes.

Starting from Hemet, you’ll pass through San Jacinto where you can find the San Jacinto Reservoir on your left as you take the Ramona Expressway (79).

Before going through Gilman Hot Springs, it’s a straight stretch.

Once you enter the elevated region, a couple of smooth turns will send you on your way to Beaumont.

From there, head to Banning and make a right towards the Morongo Indian Reservation.

This is where the whole journey starts taking a series of sharp and deep turns.

Since you’re almost off-road, you’re likely to find all sorts of terrains.

You’ll find the same route leading you through Pine Wood, all the way to Idyllwild.

Idyllwild is a nice spot to rest and take in the scenery, stretch your legs and eat up.

After that, you can connect to the Palms Highway (74) through the Mountain Center again.

While experienced riders can tread through this route without breaking a sweat, we still advise caution.

This route has its reputation for being breathtaking, figuratively and literally.

4.24 Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway (CA - 168)

Distance: 90 miles.

Time: 2h 33 minutes.

As the name suggests, Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful roads in the world.

The route takes you through the Sequoia National Forest with twists and turns along with off-road trails.

Every rider who’s ever ridden the CA-168 can assure you that there’s not much else that’s prettier.

When it comes to natural beauty, imagine the views you’ll have from almost 7000 ft above the valley.

That too, on a road that can be paved all the way and still present extreme challenges.

The forest allows you the opportunity to go exploring anywhere you “can”.

Please refrain from trying out something without experienced guides by your side.

The trail can become extremely dangerous at several turns and drop-offs.

4.25 California Route 33

Distance: 102 miles.

Time: 2h 21 minutes.

CA Route 33 has a lot of history to its construction. And many say the roads’ connection with motorcyclists is nothing less than a match made in heaven.

According to history, the first riders who traveled the Central California Mountains did so before the road was even constructed.

Two bikers traveled all the way to the Pacific in 1927, to bring attention to the proposed highway plan.

When they completed their journey, the county boards and departments greeted and celebrated their achievement.

A few years later, the highway got completed and became the motorcycle haven it is today.

Non-stop twisting action awaits with scenic backgrounds and picturesque mountains making it all seem something out of a movie as you ride through the 100-mile target.

4.26 Rim of the World Scenic Byway

Distance: 103 miles.

Time: 2h 43 minutes.

Last but perhaps the most favorite of them all, Rim of the World Scenic Byway is easily one of the most gorgeous roads to travel in the whole wide world.

You can bet anything that there’s no better road that offers as incredible views as the SR 18. Especially when you reach the 5500 ft elevation.

The mountain rim on which the byway is constructed offers mountain vistas in clear view along with several chances to stop and take in the 20–30-mile radius scenery.

Every biker makes at least one whole trip of the byway all the way from San Bernadino. All you have to do is take the exit off of Interstate 210.

Places like the Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear along the way comprise even more spectacular mountain vistas coupled with a plethora of twists and turns that are nothing less than dreamy for any rider.