As fall approaches, it’s time for motorcycle enthusiasts to embark on one of the most scenic rides of the year—cruising through landscapes adorned with the brilliant colors of changing leaves. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or planning your first fall trip, these motorcycle routes offer breathtaking views, winding roads, and the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendor of the season. Here’s a guide to the best motorcycle routes in the US for experiencing the changing leaves from north to south, starting in late September thru mid-October.

1. Route 100, Vermont

Vermont’s Route 100 is often hailed as one of the most scenic roads in the country, especially during the fall. Running north to south through the heart of the Green Mountains, this 216-mile route takes you through quaint villages, over covered bridges, and alongside pristine rivers and lakes. The dense forests lining the road burst into an array of colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your ride.

2. The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

The Kancamagus Highway, or "The Kanc" as it’s known locally, is a 34.5-mile stretch of Route 112 that cuts through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. This scenic byway is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, offering riders a front-row seat to one of New England’s most famous natural displays. The road features a mix of gentle curves and sweeping vistas, with numerous opportunities to pull over and snap a photo.

3. Skyline Drive, Virginia

Skyline Drive runs 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, following the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This route is a leaf-peeper’s paradise, with 75 overlooks offering panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont region. The drive is particularly beautiful in the fall when the hardwood forests explode in a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile stretch that offers unparalleled views of the Appalachian Mountains. In the fall, this route transforms into a vibrant corridor of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a must-ride for leaf-peeping. The parkway winds through dense forests, over mountain ridges, and past serene valleys, with plenty of overlooks to stop and take in the views.

3. Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina & Tennessee

For those seeking both stunning views and a thrilling ride, the Cherohala Skyway delivers. This 43-mile national scenic byway connects Robbinsville, North Carolina, to Tellico Plains, Tennessee, and climbs to over 5,400 feet in elevation. The higher you go, the more intense the colors, with the vibrant reds and oranges of the hardwood forests creating a vivid contrast against the evergreen pines.

5. Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina & Tennessee

If you’re an experienced rider looking for an adrenaline rush with your fall foliage, the Tail of the Dragon is the place to be. This 11-mile stretch of U.S. Route 129 boasts 318 curves, making it one of the most challenging rides in the country. In the fall, the surrounding forests come alive with color, adding to the excitement of navigating this legendary road.

7. Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi

Stretching 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi, the Natchez Trace Parkway offers a more leisurely fall ride, with a focus on historical significance and serene natural beauty. The route is lined with deciduous trees that put on a colorful display in the fall, particularly in the northern sections. The gentle curves and low traffic make this a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling ride through challenging curves or a relaxing cruise through picturesque landscapes, these routes provide the ideal backdrop for your fall adventure. So gear up, plan your trip, and get ready to experience the beauty of the season on two wheels.

Never Stop Riding!