Top 10 Harley-Davidson Scenic Rides to Take This Fall
There’s something magical about fall that makes it the ultimate riding season. The crisp breeze, the smell of autumn leaves, and the stunning bursts of color along the highways turn every ride into a bucket-list experience. This is the time to grab your helmet, fire up your Harley-Davidson®, and hit the road for some of the most unforgettable rides of the year.
Whether you’re breaking in a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle or taking your beloved pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycles out for another season, fall is calling you to explore. From scenic backroads lined with golden foliage to wide-open highways perfect for that iconic Harley rumble, these routes are all about adventure, freedom, and enjoying the ride. Get ready – these top 10 scenic rides will make you fall in love with riding all over again!
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Few places rival Rocky Mountain National Park in the fall. As the leaves change, the towering peaks and alpine meadows create a breathtaking backdrop for your Harley-Davidson ride. Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., offers incredible panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination for riders who love adventure and scenic beauty.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway
Often called "America’s Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway is a dream for Harley-Davidson riders. Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, this ride is perfect for fall with its fiery foliage, misty mountains, and rolling hills. Gentle curves and peaceful landscapes make it ideal for soaking up the season while enjoying the smooth, scenic ride.
3. Olympic Peninsula
For those who crave a mix of mountains, forests, and ocean views, the Olympic Peninsula is an unforgettable Harley ride. Winding through Olympic National Park, this route gives you a chance to experience dense rainforests, rugged coastlines, and serene lakes. In the fall, the changing colors make this scenic ride even more magical.
4. Driftless Region
If you love winding roads and sweeping river views, the Driftless Region offers some of the best riding in the Midwest. This area escaped the glaciers of the Ice Age, leaving behind rolling hills, deep valleys, and scenic bluffs along the Mississippi River. It’s the perfect fall escape for Harley-Davidson riders looking for vibrant foliage combined with peaceful, less-traveled roads.
5. Tunnel of Trees
The Tunnel of Trees along M-119 is one of Michigan’s most iconic motorcycle rides, and fall is the perfect time to experience it. As the name suggests, this narrow, winding road is surrounded by a canopy of colorful trees, making it a picture-perfect destination. With Lake Michigan peeking through in spots, the crisp air and golden leaves make this ride a seasonal favorite.
6. Pacific Coast Highway
A bucket-list ride for any Harley-Davidson owner, the Pacific Coast Highway is a breathtaking journey along the rugged West Coast. In the fall, the crowds thin out and the weather is perfect for soaking up the coastal beauty. From towering cliffs to crashing waves, this ride delivers endless photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.
7. Coastal Route One
For riders who crave fresh ocean breezes and charming coastal towns, Coastal Route One in Maine is a must-ride. In the fall, the fiery reds and golden yellows of New England foliage combine beautifully with the Atlantic coastline. Stop by quaint fishing villages, lighthouses, and seafood shacks as you cruise along this scenic stretch.
8. San Juan Mountain Skyway
Colorado makes the list again with the San Juan Mountain Skyway, a loop that takes you through historic mining towns, towering peaks, and winding mountain passes. The Million Dollar Highway, part of this route, offers jaw-dropping views that will leave you in awe. With brilliant fall colors lighting up the mountainsides, it’s a Harley-Davidson rider’s dream.
9. Pig Trail Scenic Byway
If twisting roads and dramatic views sound like your kind of ride, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway in the Arkansas Ozarks is for you. Known for its steep curves and forested scenery, this ride is especially stunning during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold. The charming town of Eureka Springs is the perfect pit stop for food, fuel, and fun.
10. Beartooth Highway
Arguably one of the most scenic motorcycle rides in the country, the Beartooth Highway offers sweeping alpine views, pristine lakes, and rugged switchbacks. Stretching between Montana and Wyoming, this high-altitude route is best experienced before the snow sets in. In the fall, the clear skies and crisp weather make for an unforgettable Harley-Davidson adventure.
Conclusion
Fall is the perfect season to experience the freedom and thrill of riding a Harley-Davidson®. Whether you’re enjoying the smooth ride of a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle or the trusted feel of a pre-owned Harley-Davidson motorcycle, these scenic routes are designed to create unforgettable memories. Don’t forget, keeping your bike in top shape with regular motorcycle service and accessorizing with the latest Harley-Davidson accessories can make every ride even more enjoyable.
At Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson, we’re here to help you get the most out of your ride this fall, whether it’s finding the perfect new or pre-owned motorcycle, servicing your bike, or adding accessories that enhance your journey. So gear up, hit the road, and make this autumn a riding season to remember!