Best Motorcycle Rides in Texas 2025-2026: Top 7 Twisty & Scenic Routes

• ROUTES: TX-41, 335, 336, 337
• DISTANCE: 112 miles
• RIDE TIME: 2.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Spring/Fall
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATERON MEMBERS): Download

Often compared to Tennessee’s Tail of the Dragon , the Three Twisted Sisters are widely regarded as one of the best motorcycle rides in Texas . These Hill Country roads—Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337 —wind through deep canyons, high ridgelines, and clear rivers. Because the terrain changes constantly, riders experience switchbacks, steep climbs, and thrilling descents.

Sweeping overlooks appear throughout the route, giving motorcyclists views of rugged limestone cliffs and forested valleys. The ride is challenging yet addictive, which is why so many riders travel from across the country to experience Texas’ most iconic motorcycle loop.

Spring is especially impressive as wildflowers transform the roadside. Although the route is technical, the reward is a true roller-coaster ride through some of the most dramatic scenery in the Lone Star State. For anyone exploring the best Texas Hill Country motorcycle rides, the Three Twisted Sisters is a must-ride experience.
(photo: T. Bradsaw)

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• ROUTES: FM 170, Santa Elena Canyon Rd
• DISTANCE: 59 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1.5 hours
• BEST TIME: Oct-Apr
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Riding through Big Bend National Park is often considered one of the best motorcycle rides in Texas, thanks to its remote desert mountains and dramatic canyon landscapes. Beginning in Lajitas on FM 170, the road climbs gently toward rugged volcanic peaks before transitioning onto the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. The views open up quickly, revealing wide valleys, layered cliffs, and twisting desert curves.

As you continue east, the route follows the Rio Grande toward the Santa Elena Canyon Overlook, one of the park’s most photographed locations. This section combines sweeping bends with spectacular river views, making it a favorite for long-distance riders.

Farther inside the park, the Chisos Basin introduces tight switchbacks and towering rock walls. These elevations provide cooler temperatures and some of the most memorable scenery in West Texas. Extending the ride deeper into Big Bend offers even more remote pavement for riders seeking solitude and unforgettable desert landscapes.
(photo: neilpeart.net)


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• ROUTES: Park Rd 4, FM 1431, Lime Creek Rd
• DISTANCE: 77 miles
• RIDE TIME: 2 hours
• BEST TIME: Spring/Fall
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Park Road 4 is a beautiful choice for anyone searching for scenic motorcycle rides near Austin, Texas. The route begins near Marble Falls and brings riders through rolling Hill Country terrain with open views of distant ridgelines. Spring is especially vibrant as wildflowers, including prime bluebonnet displays, spread across the landscape.

The ride connects naturally to FM 1431, where the curves become more dynamic and elevation changes create a fun rhythm. Experienced riders often continue onto the famous Lime Creek Road, known for its tight hairpins and technical bends. Consequently, this loop ranks as one of the twistiest motorcycle routes near Austin — just 30 minutes from downtown.

As you approach Lake Travis, the scenery shifts to rugged bluffs and lakeside vistas. The combination of smooth pavement, natural beauty, and engaging curves makes Park Road 4 one of the best motorcycle routes in Central Texas.
(photo: brigitteintexas)


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• ROUTES: Willow City Loop, Hwy 16
• DISTANCE: 21 miles
• RIDE TIME: 45 mins
• BEST TIME: March-April (bluebonnets)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Willow City Loop, located just outside Fredericksburg, is a well-known option for riders seeking a quieter, scenic Hill Country motorcycle route. This 21-mile loop blends narrow ranch roads, granite outcroppings, and rolling elevations. Because traffic is lighter on mornings or weekdays, riders often enjoy uninterrupted stretches of peaceful Texas back roads.

The landscape is rugged and open, offering long sightlines and smooth curves that are perfect for relaxed cruising. During spring, bluebonnets and other wildflowers line the route, making Willow City Loop one of the most photographed motorcycle rides in Texas.

With very few intersections or distractions, this loop is ideal for riders wanting curvy roads without heavy congestion. The combination of rural terrain and natural beauty makes it a staple among Texas Hill Country motorcycle rides.

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• ROUTE: FM 170
• DISTANCE: 115 miles
• RIDE TIME: 3 hours
• BEST TIME: Winter-Spring
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

FM 170, known throughout West Texas as The River Road, stands among the top contenders for the best motorcycle rides in Texas. Starting in Candelaria, the route traces the Rio Grande through remote desert landscapes. Sharp curves, dramatic drop-offs, and roller-coaster-style elevation changes create an unforgettable riding experience.

The road eventually enters Big Bend Ranch State Park , where volcanic formations rise sharply on both sides. Riders are rewarded with sweeping views of the river and the rugged mountains surrounding the valley. Ghost towns, abandoned buildings, and wild desert scenery add to the road’s isolated charm.

Continuing east provides the chance to ride toward Santa Elena Canyon at the western edge of Big Bend National Park . Few motorcycle roads in Texas deliver this combination of solitude, technical curves, and breathtaking desert scenery.
(photo: solsalute.com)

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• ROUTE: TX-16
• DISTANCE: 37 miles
• RIDE TIME: 1 hour
• BEST TIME: Spring/Fall
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

The ride from Kerrville to Bandera along TX-16 is a favorite for Hill Country riders who enjoy constant curves and scenic river crossings. This thrilling 58-mile stretch delivers constant sweepers, rolling hills, and some of the twistiest roads near San Antonio — all on smooth pavement with light traffic. Starting in Kerrville, the route winds through tree-lined valleys and quiet ranchland before reaching Medina and continuing toward Bandera. Because wildlife is common, riders should watch for deer, especially during dawn or dusk.

Although this Texas motorcycle road is fun and flowing, gravel occasionally appears in corners due to vehicles drifting onto the shoulder. Remaining alert ensures a smooth, enjoyable ride. Once past Medina, the scenery becomes even more picturesque with rolling hills and shaded low-water crossings.

Local riders often recommend traveling north to south for the most natural flow of curves. However, the ride is enjoyable in both directions and is easy to repeat. Its mix of beauty and twisty pavement makes this stretch one of the best motorcycle rides in the Texas Hill Country.

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• ROUTE: TX-39
• DISTANCE: 35 miles
• RIDE TIME: 45 mins
• BEST TIME: March-May (wildflowers)
• GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
• GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download

Highway 39 is a highly regarded motorcycle ride west of San Antonio, offering a peaceful yet engaging trip through the heart of the Guadalupe River Valley. Gentle curves, riverside pull-offs, and shaded stretches beneath large cypress trees create a scenic and relaxing motorcycle route in Texas.

Throughout the ride, glimpses of the turquoise Guadalupe River appear between bends, giving riders a refreshing Hill Country backdrop. The pavement is curvy but not overly technical, making it suitable for both new riders and seasoned travelers. For a longer riding, motorcyclists can turn south on Highway 187 toward Vanderpool and visit the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum .

However, riders should use caution after rainfall, as low-water crossings can stay wet. With its natural beauty and smooth rhythm, Highway 39 consistently ranks among the top motorcycle rides in Texas .

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GreatMotorcycleRoads.com is the place to find the best motorcycle roads and rides near Texas as well as the Southwest United States. Discover more great motorcycle roads in the Southwest with our detailed route descriptions and Google Maps links!