"Best of" Utah Motorcycle Rides to Explore Now

Sep 18, 2024

Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking and diverse motorcycle rides in the country. Whether you're weaving through towering red rock formations, cruising along alpine mountain passes, or riding through scenic desert landscapes, the state offers endless opportunities for adventure on two wheels. 

From short, scenic byways to long stretches of highway that connect Utah’s renowned national parks, there’s a route for every type of rider. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Utah motorcycle rides you can experience right now, showcasing routes that highlight the state's stunning natural beauty and provide unforgettable riding experiences. Whether you’re a local rider or visiting from out of state, these must-ride roads await you.

Mount Nebo Scenic Byway (Nebo Loop Road)

Distance: 36 miles

Start: Payson, Utah

End: Nephi, Utah

Experience one of the best motorcycle rides in Utah by taking the Mount Nebo Scenic Byway. This 36-mile route offers stunning views of Mount Nebo, the tallest peak in the Wasatch Range. Winding through beautiful forests, canyons, and meadows, this ride showcases Utah's diverse natural beauty. The scenic route is perfect for beginners and seasoned riders, offering a smooth ride with plenty of photo opportunities. This Utah motorcycle ride is a must for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful, scenic drive.

The Windows Road at Arches National Park

Distance: 5 miles

Start/End: Off of Arches National Park Road, near Balanced Rock

The Windows Road leads to the famous Windows Section of Arches National Park, often considered the heart of the park. This short but captivating 5-mile ride gives riders a glimpse of one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes, packed with a stunning concentration of natural arches and rock formations. In just over two square miles, you'll encounter awe-inspiring features like North Window, Turret Arch, and the impressive Double Arch. Other notable formations include Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, and the aptly named Parade of Elephants.

Scenic Byway 12: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef

Distance: 116 miles

Start: Bryce Canyon National Park

End: Capitol Reef National Park

Spanning 116 miles of jaw-dropping scenery, Scenic Byway 12 is often regarded as one of the best motorcycle rides in Utah. Starting at Bryce Canyon and ending at Capitol Reef, this ride covers a diverse landscape of desert cliffs, lush forests, and expansive canyons. You'll pass through charming small towns and see geological wonders like the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Scenic Byway 12 offers plenty of rest stops and overlooks, making it a perfect route for a full day of riding and exploration.

https://www.visitutah.com/articles/the-all-american-road-scenic-byway-12 

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (UT-9 E)

Distance: 27 miles

Start: Hurricane, Utah

End: Mt Carmel, Utah

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a 27-mile route that takes riders through some of the most dramatic landscapes in Zion National Park. One of the highlights of this ride is the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat stretching 1.1 miles through the sandstone cliffs. This tunnel, built in the 1920s, adds to the adventure as riders pass through its dark, narrow passage, emerging to breathtaking views of towering rock formations and deep canyons. The highway's combination of winding roads, sheer cliffs, and scenic overlooks makes it one of the best motorcycle rides in Utah. With plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy Zion’s stunning natural beauty, this route offers a perfect mix of curves and jaw-dropping vistas.

Let a Local Help You Connect the Best Routes

Utah has more world-class riding than most visitors can cover in a single trip, and figuring out which routes to combine and when to ride them takes local knowledge. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours out of Salt Lake City led by riders who know the mountain passes, the canyon roads, and the national park routes from years of riding them. If you want to see more of Utah without spending the trip staring at a map, a guided ride is a good way to make it happen.

Alpine Loop Scenic Byway

Distance: 20 Miles

Start: American Fork Canyon

End: Wildwood, Utah

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway is a 20-mile gem that offers some of the most picturesque views for motorcycle riders in Utah. Starting in American Fork Canyon, this route weaves through thick forests, offering glimpses of rugged mountains and alpine lakes. Riders will be treated to views of Mount Timpanogos and stunning fall foliage during the autumn months. It’s one of the best Utah motorcycle rides for those who enjoy winding roads and natural beauty.

Logan Canyon Scenic Drive

Distance: 39 miles

Start: Logan, Utah

End: Garden City on Bear Lake

Logan Canyon Scenic Drive offers 39 miles of stunning landscapes, making it one of the most scenic motorcycle rides in Utah. Starting in the charming town of Logan, this ride takes you through the breathtaking Cache Valley, especially striking in the fall when the trees burst with vibrant colors of gold, red, and orange. The route winds along the Logan River, a favorite spot for trout fishing, and features towering limestone cliffs and fossil-laden rock formations. As you ascend towards the summit, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Bear Lake, a stunning end to the ride. Whether you're visiting in the summer for hiking and camping or in the winter for snowmobiling and skiing, this ride offers year-round beauty and adventure, making it a top choice.

Burr Trail Road at Capitol Reef National Park

Distance: 66 miles

Start: Boulder, Utah

End: Lake Powell, Utah

The Burr Trail Road is a 66-mile adventure through the rugged backcountry of Capitol Reef National Park. It’s one of the best motorcycle rides in Utah for those who seek a more remote and challenging route. The road passes through canyons, slick rock landscapes, and offers dramatic views of the Waterpocket Fold. While some portions of the trail are paved, others are gravel, so this ride is recommended for more experienced riders.

La Sal Mountain Loop State Scenic Backway (La Sal Loop Road)

Distance: 63 miles

Start/End: Moab, Utah

The La Sal Mountain Loop is a 63-mile scenic ride through the breathtaking La Sal Mountains just outside of Moab. It’s one of the best motorcycle rides in Utah for those looking to escape the desert heat and enjoy cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Riders will experience a range of landscapes, from desert canyons to alpine meadows, making this ride diverse and visually stunning. With views of Moab’s red rock formations and the Colorado River in the distance, this route is a favorite among locals and riders.

Motorcycle Rentals in Utah with Riders Share

Motorcycle rentals in Utah with Riders Share offer the perfect way to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, from the urban excitement of Salt Lake City to the rugged beauty of its national parks. Whether you're cruising the streets of downtown Salt Lake or tackling the scenic byways like the Alpine Loop or the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, Utah provides a variety of routes that cater to all riding preferences. 

Riders Share makes it easy to access these iconic roads with a wide selection of bikes available for rent. From the towering mountains to the expansive deserts, renting a motorcycle in Utah opens up a world of adventure, giving you the freedom to experience some of the best motorcycle rides Utah has to offer.