Motorcycle Routes in California

California is one of the best places in the world for motorcycle riding. With its mix of coastal highways, mountain passes, desert roads, and forest routes, it offers endless opportunities for riders looking for both short trips and long-distance adventures. From the Pacific Coast Highway to the Sierra Nevada mountains, California is packed with some of the most iconic motorcycle roads in the United States. On this page, you can explore motorcycle routes in California that have been saved and shared by riders using Detecht. These routes highlight real roads that motorcyclists actually ride — often the most scenic, curvy, and enjoyable roads in the region. Many of these routes feature roads that are:

• twisty and fun to ride

• scenic and iconic

• popular among local motorcyclists

• perfect for day trips or longer tours

If you're searching for the best motorcycle roads in California, this is a great place to start.

Riding a Motorcycle in California

California offers unmatched variety when it comes to motorcycle riding. Within just a few hours, you can go from coastal riding to mountain twisties or desert highways. Popular riding regions include:

• Pacific Coast – ocean views and cliffside roads

• Sierra Nevada – mountain passes and elevation changes

• Northern California – forests and remote scenic roads

• Southern California – canyon roads and desert landscapes

This makes California one of the most diverse and rewarding destinations for motorcyclists. Many routes shared in Detecht start in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego and expand into these regions.

Local Favorite Motorcycle Roads in California

California is home to some of the most famous motorcycle roads in the world. These roads frequently appear in routes shared by riders and are well-known for their riding experience.

Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic motorcycle roads in the world. Stretching along the California coastline, it offers:

• ocean views

• sweeping curves

• dramatic cliffs

The section between Monterey and Big Sur is especially popular among motorcyclists.

Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2)

Located just outside Los Angeles, Angeles Crest Highway is a favorite among local riders. It features:

• fast sweepers

• tight curves

• mountain scenery

This is one of the most popular day rides in Southern California.

Mulholland Highway

Mulholland Highway is another legendary road near Los Angeles. It’s known for:

• tight corners

• scenic overlooks

• strong motorcycle culture

The famous section known as “The Snake” is a hotspot for riders.

Highway 36 (Northern California)

Highway 36 is often considered one of the best motorcycle roads in the U.S. It offers:

• hundreds of curves

• remote landscapes

• minimal traffic

This is a must-ride for long-distance touring riders.

Tioga Pass (Highway 120 – Yosemite)

Tioga Pass through Yosemite National Park offers:

• high elevation riding

• alpine scenery

• sweeping mountain roads

It’s one of the most scenic rides in California.

Popular Motorcycle Roads Near Major Cities

Many routes in California are built around well-known highways and scenic connectors.

Highway 9 – Santa Cruz Mountains

A popular road near San Jose offering:

• tight curves

• forest riding

• elevation changes

Ortega Highway (Highway 74)

A favorite Southern California route connecting inland areas to the coast.

Highway 49 – Gold Country

A historic route running through California’s Gold Rush region, ideal for longer scenic rides.

Motorcycle Cafés and Popular Stops

Motorcycle culture in California is strongly connected to stops along the ride. Riders often gather at cafés, diners, and scenic viewpoints. Some well-known stops include:

• Alice’s Restaurant (Woodside) – a legendary meeting spot for riders in Northern California

• Rock Store (Malibu) – iconic stop along Mulholland Highway

• Newcomb’s Ranch (Angeles Crest Highway) – a classic stop for riders in the mountains

• Nepenthe (Big Sur) – scenic stop along the Pacific Coast Highway

On weekends, these places often fill up with motorcycles from all over the state.

Motorcycle Community in California

California has one of the largest motorcycle communities in the world. The state is home to:

• sportbike riders

• touring riders

• adventure riders

• cruiser and custom communities

There are also many organized groups and communities, including:

• American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)

• local riding groups and meetups

• brand-specific clubs (Harley-Davidson, BMW, Ducati, etc.)

In addition to organized groups, many riders connect through apps like Detecht to share routes and discover new roads.

Find Motorcycle Routes in California

The routes shown on this page are created by riders using Detecht. They represent real rides taken across California and highlight some of the best roads in the region. By exploring these routes, you can:

• discover new roads

• plan your next ride

• explore different regions of California

• find inspiration for both short and long trips

Scroll down to explore motorcycle routes in California and find your next ride.