7 of the best motorcycle rides in the Northeast
You've heard the expression, “You can't get there from here.” Well, that doesn't apply if you ride a motorcycle. There are plenty of great places you can get to in New England.
From the rocky coast of Maine to the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and inland up into the mountains, this region offers some great motorcycling adventures. For the purposes of this list, we've pushed the boundaries a little bit past the state lines to add some rides from upstate New York—including one road that makes a great launching point for your New England motorcycle riding adventures.
Coastal Route 1—Maine
U.S. Route 1 winds its way through the quaint towns of the rugged coastline of Maine. From Bath to Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor, all the way to the Canadian border at Calais, great seafood and friendly folks await you. Take time to explore the side roads to discover lighthouses and villages right out of seaside picture postcards.
Kancamagus Highway—New Hampshire
Way up north in New Hampshire you’ll find the unspoiled beauty of the White Mountain National Forest. In the 800,000 acres of forest, there’s a road that beckons to motorcycle riders to come and experience mountains once considered uninhabitable. The Kancamagus Highway, called the “Kanc” by the locals, is just 34 miles long, but is filled with wonderful motorcycle riding miles.
Mount Washington Road—New Hampshire
If you ride around the Northeast, you’ll surely see the bumper sticker that proudly proclaims: “This car climbed Mt. Washington” or “This bike climbed Mt. Washington.” So, what’s the big deal about climbing Mt. Washington? At 6,288 feet, the summit is the highest peak in the Northeast and features a road that compares to Pikes Peak. Go ride the mountain and earn your bumper sticker.
U.S. Route 7—Vermont
Ride from the Green Mountain National Forest north to the shore of Lake Champlain at Burlington on U.S. Route 7. Vermont is well-known for its quaint and cozy country inns and tasty maple syrup. It’s also a favorite destination for fall foliage vacations. From spring to autumn, any time is a great time to ride in Vermont, the home of the Green Mountains.
U. S. Route 6 through Cape Cod—Massachusetts
Cape Cod has a unique mix of glacier-formed ponds and marshes, harbors with barrier islands, and beautiful beaches along its 400 miles of Atlantic seashore. U. S. Route 6 (US6) will carry you through the heart of Cape Cod to the very tip at Provincetown. From US6, you can access everything Cape Cod has to offer while riding the historic Grand Army of the Republic Highway.
New York State Route 9N
Mountains and valleys combine to create some of the great roads that are favorites among motorcycles riders. One such road—known and loved by the tens of thousands of riders who make the journey to the Americade rally—is New York State Route 9N. This fine road and the beauty of Lake George and Lake Champlain make for a wonderful, scenic ride. Consider it a starting point for exploring the Great Appalachian Valley and the Adirondack Mountains.
Harriman State Park, New York—Six parkways in one park
Harriman State Park is close to New York City and New Jersey, yet riding there's like being hundreds of miles away in the country. The six parkways that criss-cross the park and the adjacent Bear Mountain State Park provide an all-day riding opportunity. With easy access from several routes, it's a favorite destination for local motorcycle riders.
Till next time, ride safe!
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*Data accuracy is subject to this article's publication date.
