California has some of the best motorcycling roads in the country, and many of them are located in the central part of the state. Central California’s most popular motorcycle routes wind through mountain passes, cross river deltas and sweep past unspoiled beaches. Here are five of the best.
The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most picturesque roads in the world, and its most dramatic section runs through Big Sur in Central California. This is a stretch of road where you’ll want to slow down and take in the views, and what views they are. The Santa Lucia mountains will be on your right if you head north on this road, and the seemingly endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean will be on your left.
The ride is challenging with narrow shoulders and hairpin turns, but even novice riders will enjoy the experience as long as they watch out for road signs and adjust their speeds accordingly. The sights that will take your breath away on this ride include majestic waterfalls, towering redwood trees and pristine beaches, and you might see a California Condor flying overhead if you look up.
The Sacramento River Delta
Hairpin turns and cutbacks are great for those seeking thrills, but some riders prefer to relax and enjoy the world at a gentler pace. If you are one of these riders, you will love exploring the levee roads of the Sacramento River Delta. Flat roads and few intersections make this area a safe place to ride, and the views are stunning. The Sacramento River Delta is the largest estuary on the West Coast, and it is home to more than 700 distinct animal and plant species.
You will come across small towns and marinas that ooze charm on this ride, and you will be spoiled for choice if you want to enjoy some locally grown food. If you pack your own lunch, you will find several picnic spots in the Brannan Island State Recreation Area that offer breathtaking views of the delta.
The June Lake Loop
Riders looking to escape the summer heat often head to the Eastern Sierra mountains and the June Lake Loop. This ride’s sweeping turns and tight bends pass four pristine alpine lakes, and all of them are worth stopping for. If your schedule only allows you to make one stop, June Lake is where you should pull over. This is the most developed part of the ride, and it’s where you will find great restaurants that offer al fresco dining and spectacular mountain views.
Napa Valley
California’s wine country is a feast for the eyes, and it’s a great place to take a motorcycle ride. Start your ride at Lake Berryessa, and then take Knoxville Road for 12 miles to reach Napa Valley. There will be sweeping curves and sharp turns along the way, and you will be surrounded by picturesque wineries and rolling vineyards. Many of the wineries offer visitor tours, and some of them are well worth pulling over for. If you only have time for one or two tours, Candon and Castello di Amorosa would be great choices.
Yuba Pass
California State Route 49 offers motorcyclists some of the best riding in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and Yuba Pass is the highway’s crown jewel. The ride is challenging on this stretch of CA 49, but incredible mountain views will make the effort worthwhile. Other highlights are towns like Sierra City and Downieville that are steeped in history. These towns are filled with protected buildings, and they look much as they did during the California Gold Rush.
Safety First
Before setting out on one of these scenic motorcycle rides in California, be sure to prepare for a safe ride. Unfortunately, accidents are far too common. The city of Modesto alone saw 76 motorcycle accidents in 2023. Always do regular maintenance and safety checks on your bike, obey traffic laws, practice safe riding techniques and wear protective gear. California does require all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet.
