From the east coast to the west coast, and not forgetting Hawaii and Alaska, America is inarguably one of the most geographically diverse countries in the world. And ever since President Eisenhower proposed the building of 41,000 miles of interconnected asphalt with the Interstate Highway System, back in 1956, it became easier than ever to see all of what the country has to offer. But where to start? What should be your vehicle of choice? Those questions are actually easier to answer than you might think.
If you’re looking for great road complimented by incredible scenery, with a few exceptions, pin straight expressways are your enemy. What you want are stretches of tarmac adapted to nature when they were first laid out and there’s no better place to look than along coastal stretches and the ribbons of asphalt that contour snaking rivers and waterways. And if you want to take in 100 percent of the experience, skip the car and go for two wheels. With a motorcycle, there’s no barrier between you and nature — It becomes a sensory overload rushing at you at 65 mph. So, if you want to know the best riding roads in America, this list is your starting point.
Hells Canyon Road, Idaho
Starting just across the river from Coopersfield Campground in Oxbow, Oregon, and continuing all the way to Hells Canyon Dam, the appropriately named Hells Canyon Road runs along the Snake River for 22 miles. Hugging the jagged canyon walls, the two-lane strip of blacktop undulates and creases the entire way. When you do eventually get to the Hells Canyon Dam, where only Park Service vehicles are allowed to pass, you’ll have to turn around and head back the way you came. Going 44 miles out of your way never looked so good.
Location: Hells Canyon Road | Council, ID ⇱
