Best Motorcycle Rides in Northern California - Bay Area to the Redwoods

Aug 17, 2024

Northern California boasts some of the country's most iconic and breathtaking motorcycle rides. Here are some of the best places to ride motorcycles in Northern California based on the opinions of our owners and renters at Riders Share. 

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) - SF to Leggett 

• Distance: 222 miles

• View the full 14-day PCH road trip itinerary at the link below!

This legendary 656-mile route is not only one of the best in Northern California but also in California. If you want to make the most of this ride, we recommend taking a three —or four-day trip on the northern tier of Highway 1, with stops in San Francisco, Mendocino, and Leggett. 

This iconic stretch is not one to be missed if you’re traveling to Northern California or looking to just explore this part of the state. 

Highlights:

• Marin County: Begins with urban views and transitions into lush landscapes, featuring spots like Stinson Beach and Tomales Bay, known for its oysters​. 
• Sonoma Coast: Offers less curvy roads than Marin, with key stops like Bodega Bay and Gualala, where the terrain becomes notably rugged and scenic​. 
• Mendocino Coast: As you approach Mendocino, the route delivers dramatic coastal cliffs and expansive views, inviting stops at quaint towns and natural reserves.
• Redwood Forests: Nearing Leggett, the drive weaves through towering ancient redwoods, marking a serene and majestic end to the coastal journey.

Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

• Distance: 60 miles

Cruise north along the Avenue of the Giants, a serene 30-mile stretch through the towering redwoods of the Eel River Valley, perfect for a relaxing ride. Conclude your ride in Old Town Eureka, where you can experience the family-friendly Bikes By the Bay event during the summer. This annual gathering showcases a vibrant display of motorcycles by clubs and custom builders along the picturesque waterfront, making it a perfect end to a day filled with both natural splendor and community spirit. This route spans both the Ave of Giants as well as Highway 101, which is arguably the most historic highway in California. 

Highlights: 

• Avenue of the Giants: This iconic 30-mile stretch of road offers a tranquil ride through the majestic redwoods of the Eel River Valley. The drive is famous for its stunning scenery, featuring some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world.
• Founder's Grove: Within the Avenue of the Giants, don’t miss the Founder’s Grove, home to the famous Founder’s Tree. This area is a tribute to the founders of the Save-the-Redwoods League and provides easy access to some of the park's most impressive specimens.
• Old Town Eureka: Your ride concludes in Old Town Eureka, a historic area known for its Victorian buildings and vibrant cultural scene. It's a delightful place to explore on foot, offering various shops, galleries, and eateries along the waterfront.

Skip the Route Planning, Keep the Adventure

Northern California has more roads worth riding than you can cover in a weekend, and figuring out which ones to prioritize takes time. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours in San Francisco and the surrounding region, led by locals who've already logged the miles. From coastal highways to redwood runs, a guided ride gets you on the best roads without the research.

Highway 36

• Distance: 140 miles

Highway 36 in California is a dream ride for motorcycle enthusiasts who crave a challenge and stunning scenery. Stretching for 140 miles, this road is famed for its 1,811 curves, offering an exhilarating experience similar to the renowned Tail of the Dragon. As it winds through the rugged mountains, riders are treated to a dynamic landscape that transitions from dense forests to expansive vistas.

Highlights:

• Endless Curves: With over 1,800 twists and turns, this route is a test of skill and endurance and provides an exhilarating ride.
• Mountain Scenery: The route cuts through the Northern California mountains, offering breathtaking views and cool, crisp mountain air.
• Remote Stretch: One of the less traveled highways, it offers adventure and isolation, perfect for those looking to escape busy roads.
• Diverse Ecosystems: Riders will pass through changing landscapes, including thick forests and open mountain ridges, showcasing the region's diverse ecology.

Skyline Boulevard - State Route 35

• Distance: Approximately 62 miles

Skyline Boulevard, also known as State Route 35, stretches scenically along the crest of the Santa Cruz Mountains in California, starting in San Francisco, offering breathtaking views and a serene driving experience. This route is famed for its sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay Area, making it a favorite for locals and tourists.

Highlights:

• Alice's Restaurant: A famous stop for motorcyclists and car enthusiasts, Alice's is a great spot for a meal with a vibrant community atmosphere.
• Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve: Offers expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Castle Rock State Park: Known for its impressive rock formations and popular among rock climbers and hikers.
• Pulgas Water Temple: A beautiful monument reflecting the importance of water to the area, set within a serene park.
• La Honda Winery: A boutique winery that provides a cozy spot for wine tasting amid the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
• Sky Londa: The intersection of Skyline Boulevard and La Honda Road (Highway 84) is a key viewpoint and offers access to several trails.
• Thomas Fogarty Winery: Located along the northern part of Skyline Boulevard, offering tastings with stunning views over Silicon Valley.
• Vista Point: A few designated vista points along the route provide panoramic views of the surrounding area, which is perfect for photos or a quick rest.

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

• Distance: 9 miles
• Short and sweet, with beautiful views. 

The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway offers a picturesque 9-mile route through California's pristine landscapes. This short and delightful drive is nestled within a stunning setting, providing awe-inspiring views that make every mile memorable. Some compare it to a shorter version of the Avenue of Giants!

Highlights:

• The parkway is known for its accessibility to scenic spots, perfect for quick stops and photo opportunities.
• There are plenty of hiking trails along this route within the Redwood National and State Parks if you want a good workout or great views!

Mount Diablo State Park Summit Ride

• Distance: 14 miles

Starting from the North Gate Entrance Station of Mount Diablo State Park, the route takes you southbound along North Gate Road. As you ascend on Summit Road towards the peak of Mount Diablo, you're met with sharp curves and significant elevation changes. The summit stands at approximately 3,800 feet, offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. The return journey heads down Summit Road and transitions onto South Gate Road, concluding near the intersection with Mount Diablo Scenic Boulevard.

Check for closures here - PARK CLOSES AT SUNSET

California Highway 9

• Distance: 39 miles

Highway 9 in California winds through the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a scenic and sometimes thrilling driving experience. This road is well-loved for its natural beauty and various attractions along the way- you’ll be hard-pressed to find a local who hasn’t taken this route.

Highlights:

• Saratoga Village: Quaint downtown area with shops, dining, and wine tasting.
• Montalvo Arts Center: Cultural venue with art exhibitions, concerts, and nature trails.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park: As California's oldest state park, it features ancient coast redwoods that reach skyward nearly 300 feet. It's a must-visit for hiking and photography.
• Castle Rock State Park: A popular destination for hikers and rock climbers. It’s known for its impressive sandstone rock formations and sweeping views of Monterey Bay.
• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: This park offers easy access to old-growth redwood groves and a popular walking trail with a stunning loop through the forest.
• Brookdale Lodge: The historic lodge is known for its creek running through the dining room.

Motorcycle Rentals in San Francisco Bay Area with Riders Share

Riders Share provides a premier platform for motorcycle rentals in the Bay Area, offering an extensive selection of bikes suitable for every type of rider. Whether you’re planning to cruise through the city streets, explore the winding coastal roads, or challenge the rugged mountain paths, Riders Share has a bike to match your adventure. From powerful cruisers to agile sport bikes, each rental comes with insurance for peace of mind and the flexibility to pick up the bike from convenient locations across the Bay Area. Ideal for both locals and visitors, Riders Share makes it easy to experience riding in one of the most scenic regions of the United States.

Explore the Bay Area to the Redwoods and Beyond 

Northern California is undeniably one of the premier regions in the country for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering an array of roads that combine natural beauty with thrilling rides. Each route presents a unique adventure from the legendary twists and turns of the Pacific Coast Highway, stretching from San Francisco to Leggett to the awe-inspiring redwoods along the Avenue of the Giants. The technical bends and stunning vistas of Highway 36 and the serene rides along Skyline Boulevard further highlight the diversity of riding experiences available in this part of California. For those looking to explore these scenic roads, remember that each journey promises not just a ride but an unforgettable experience woven through some of the most spectacular landscapes the area has to offer.