BEST MOTORCYCLE RIDES IN COLORADO

ROUTE: US-34
DISTANCE: 90 miles
TIME: 2.5 hours

Naturally, many of the greatest motorcycle roads are in National Parks, and the Rockies are no exception. First on our list of the best motorcycle rides in Colorado is this epic route from Loveland to Rocky Mountain National Park. High elevations, vast open roads, and majestic mountains all fill this motorcycle ride in Colorado through the northern and western portion of the park. Be sure to start in Loveland through an epic canyon ride and continue through the fantastic town of Estes Park, and over past Lake Granby.
(photo: Motolaxin)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTE: US-550
DISTANCE: 129 miles
TIME: 3 hours

This gorgeous CO motorcycle road traverses multiple mountain passes that each rise more than 11,000 feet above sea level. The 25 mile portion from Ouray to Silverton is dubbed the “Million Dollar Highway”​. The grandeur of these tremendous mountains can be seen from these roadside vistas. There’s countless number of hairpin turns and switchbacks (with and without guardrails), and the descents and climbs are almost endless. Not only is the road itself tremendous, the towns that you’ll pass through on this route are renowned for their history and beauty. As amazing as this motorcycle ride is, it’s not as popular or crowded as some of the other great motorcycle roads in America.
(photo: durango.org)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTE: CO-92
DISTANCE: 73 miles
TIME: 2 hours

This winding and lightly traveled road passes around the Gunnison Gorge area and southeast traversing the interior flank of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. There’s some spectacular views of alpine aspen groves, dense forests and mountain overlooks as the route meanders along the Gunnison River, making this one of the best motorcycle rides in CO.
(photo: neilpeart.net)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTE: CO-82
DISTANCE: 84 miles
TIME: 2.5 hours

Independence Pass crests at 12,095ft, so you’ll know you’ll be taking in great views of the Rockies! At the lower elevations, there will be endless switchbacks along the winding tree-lined road. As you climb this epic Colorado motorcycle road, there are steep and sharp switchbacks with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. Glenwood Springs is found on the northern entrance to this route and is world-famous for its claim to the largest improved hot springs in the world. Between Glenwood Springs and the tiny town of Basalt, look to the south for a view of the scene-stealing grandeur of Mount Sopris. Due to the high altitude and winter road conditions, this route is closed from October-May, so be sure to ride this one when you can!
(photo: R. Zink)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTES: CO-5, CO-103
DISTANCE: 28 miles
TIME: 1 hour

One of the most exciting motorcycle rides in Colorado is also the highest paved road in North America at 14,130 feet elevation. Formerly named Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the Mt Blue Sky Scenic Byway is just west of Denver and can be accessed from Hwy 70. Groves of pine trees will gradually give way to magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. This road is so high, you’ll actually be looking down at most of Colorado’s mountain peaks! Riders will want to be cautious with the lack of guardrails as you traverse the switchbacks to the top. As you ride along the exposed mountainside, you’ll get magnificent views of the seemingly endless glacier-cut valleys and horizons. Motorcyclists should stay vigilant, as there will sure to be Bighorn sheep near the road. So bring your ‘A Game’ and enjoy this thrilling Colorado motorcycle ride!
(photo: flickr.com)

click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTE: CO-141
DISTANCE: 95 miles
TIME: 2 hours

If you’re looking for one of the best roads to take by motorcycle in the canyons of western Colorado, don’t miss Colorado Hwy 141. This gem of a road includes 30 miles of breathtaking red rock canyon views with no traffic, buildings and very few other travelers. The first 40 miles of road follows a beautiful narrow canyon which tops out and proceeds down a wide glacial valley. You’ll be riding in the canyon and on top of it for parts of the ride. Hwy 141 is between the tiny towns of Naturita and Whitewater. There will be high speed sweepers with good sight lines as you take in the amazing scenery around you. The truly special part of this great Colorado motorcycle road is between the tiny town of Gateway heading towards Naturita. The ride can be extended on CO-145 east into Telluride. But this motorcycle route is also very close to UT-12, which is the best motorcycle road in Utah. The breathtaking vistas, the blue skies contrasting the surreal red of the rocks and the twisty ride makes this one of the best motorcycle rides in Colorado!
(photo: flickr.com)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

ROUTES: CO-119, CO-72, CO-7
DISTANCE: 61 miles
TIME: 1.5 hours

This Colorado motorcycle road will offer riders some of the most spectacular riding in the entire state. The Peak to Peak Highway was established in 1918 and provides gorgeous scenery of the Front Range Mountains in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The route has an excellent variety of twisties mixed with long sweeping and tight, quick corners. Riders will experience absolutely majestic views on this fine highway. Feel the cool, clear air with elevation over 8000ft in Black Hawk, while at the North end in Estes Park is over 7000 ft. This road has gained in popularity in recent years, so a weekday ride may be best. However, this is most certainly one of the best motorcycle roads in America, so if you get the chance to do it on any given day, you won’t be disappointed!
(photo: pintrest.com)


Click here for the Google maps motorcycle route link

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