The Best Motorcycle Roads in Idaho

People love motorcycles because they appeal to a need for freedom and a desire to be in contact with everything from the roar of the engine to the feel of the wind.

Some people ride for the great gas mileage and maneuverability, but many ride for the pure pleasure of thundering down the roadway with the scenery rolling out before you.

You may love how the bike makes you look cool, or you may be riding so that you can become part of a larger community.

Either way, you’ll save money on gas and find that parking is a lot easier. You can wave to fellow bikers while expressing your own individual style and flair.

When you head out for a pleasure ride on Sunday afternoon, the highways may not be the best choice.

What you want is a free-flowing road where you can stretch out your legs and enjoy some amazing scenery. A few twists and turns will let you put your skills to the test while staying more engaged with the ride.

Here are a few you may want to consider if you’re living in or visiting Idaho.

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Best Roadways for Motorcycles in Idaho

For motorcycle enthusiasts, it’s all about finding the right road.

The scenery is important, and the ability to take some twists and turns helps keep things interesting.

If you’re looking for the road less traveled and the two-lane highways that grace our country, then you’ll enjoy some of the great roads that crisscross Idaho.

These highways and byways are perfect for people who are ready to hit the open road and take in the incredible landscapes that can be seen across the state.

Some routes are perfect for single riders, and others are ideal for larger groups who are out for the day or a longer adventure.

#1 – The Lolo Pass

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdRXa_md4zE

At 158 miles in length, ID-12 is ideal for beginners. There are plenty of gently sweeping corners that you can casually go around, and that makes it a fine choice for anyone who hasn’t ridden in a little while.

Extending from Grangeville, Idaho to Lolo, Montana, the Lolo Pass is a remote road where you can take in the scenery and relax.

There aren’t too many gas stations along the way, so fill up whenever you can. The stretch from Kooskia to Lolo Hot Springs is particularly remote, so you may want to travel with a partner.

#2 – Rattlesnake Pass to Wallowa Lake

This roadway is known for its amazing scenery. The views of Hells Canyon are impressive from the seat of your bike, and the wooded forests will leave you feeling like you’re the only person on the planet.

The road has clean straight stretches where you can bump up the speed a little, but then the road takes some great turns that will challenge you a little more.

There is no gas between Asotin and Enterprise, so take your last chance to fill up. This is a great option for people who are spending a few days on the road because camping is available at Fields Springs State Park.

#3 – Idaho/Montana Scenic Triangle Loop

If you’re looking to challenge yourself on a more difficult ride, then head out on the Scenic Triangle Loop. The scenery never fails to impress, and you can even spot nesting Bald Eagles along the way.

It runs from wetlands through forested mountains, and steep canyons will delight you visually. You’ll have to contend with a fair bit of traffic, and it’s important to keep an eye out for the occasional pothole.

Loose gravel on the road may be your biggest challenge and be sure to check the weather ahead of time as it moves through higher elevations where snow is likely.

#4 – Northwest Passage All American Road

Moving due south from Kooskia and then southwest to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, this roadway is known for its amazing views. A two-lane, winding highway, it’s considered one of the best drives in the Northwest region of the country.

The full stretch of the road is 202 miles, so you can easily cover it in a day or stay at some hotels along the way. There are only a few choices for lodging, so you may want to make reservations ahead of time.

The Nez Perce National Historic Park at Spalding has a museum and research center that you may want to visit.

#5 – Salmon River/ River of No Return

Travel from Stanley up to Salmon on this 120-mile road. You’ll see everything from the Sawtooth Mountains to the desert, and you’ll be impressed with the curves on this road. There are drop-offs along the edge that make the ride even more interesting and enjoyable.

The road is in excellent condition, and there are several campgrounds where you can stop for the night. It’s a fairly quiet road, making it amazing for groups who are traveling together.

#6 – The Devil’s Tail

Oxbow, Oregon, is the starting point of the Devil’s Tail. Otherwise known as the National Forest Service Road #454, it goes right into Hells Canyon Dam with hundreds of curves and incredible views.

The Devil’s Tail is a more challenging road, so you’ll want to plan several stops along the way. Planning ahead will allow you to keep an eye on the road when you’re actually traveling. Riders are encouraged to bring along a camera to capture some of the amazing scenery.

It’s a challenging ride because the road is riddled with tar snakes and rock falls. Maximum speeds on the curves range from 10 to 35 miles per hour.

#7 – Highway to Heaven: Route 56 Loop

You can easily travel the loop in a day, but many riders opt to make this an overnight excursion. There are good restaurants and amenities just off the loop in Sandpoint, ID.

The weather can make the roads treacherous during the winter months, but the conditions are typically fine from May 15th through mid-September.

The curving road has mountains on both sides, and the Moyie Springs Bridge is sure to give you stunning views. Road conditions include long straightaways mixed in with all types of curves.

#8 – Lewiston to Missoula on U.S. Highway 12

If you’re looking for views that will take your breath away, then plan a trip to Highway 12. This route has loads of historical markers, and you’ll see everything from dense forests and low rolling hills to sheer rock cliffs.

Traffic can be heavy on this road, particularly when there are festivals in Sturgis. However, there are plenty of amenities so that you can take frequent breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery.

#9 – St. Joe River Scenic Byway

This road usually has very light traffic despite the amazing views. It’s a twisting back road that will challenge your abilities as a rider.

There are plenty of amenities at both ends, but you won’t find much in between. Be sure to take along some snacks and a full tank of gas.

#10 – The Great Scenic Loop through Central Idaho and Western Montana

The great thing about a loop is that you can start it at any point. However, at 655 miles, you may want to pick a section and just ride that area. It travels along rivers, lakes, and towering summits so that you can see all that Idaho has to offer.

The Great Scenic Loop is a great road for people who love twists and turns. You won’t typically go more than five or ten miles without a bend, and one 99-mile section is full of twists and turns. You may also encounter wildlife, so you’ll want to stay on alert at all times.

Safety Tips For Your Motorcycle Trip

Whenever you head out on the road, you want to stay safe behind the handlebars. Follow these tips from seasoned riders to make your next trip more enjoyable and safe.

– Get the Right Gear

Rather than dressing just for comfort, remember that you’re going to be out in the wind and weather.

You need plenty of protection, including:

• Leather or reinforced jacket and full pants to protect from windburn
• Over-the-ankle footwear
• Eye protection such as goggles or a helmet visor
• Helmet

– Drive Defensively

You know that you cannot rely on other drivers to see your smaller bike, so you should drive defensively at all times.

Drivers are typically at fault for accidents, but it’s always better to avoid the injuries if you can. Stay alert, watch for cars changing lanes, and allow a safe following distance between yourself and others.

– Avoid Bad Weather

Rain and high winds can make your bike hard to manage, so always check the weather report before heading out.

If you are caught in a storm, then make sure that you:

• Go easy on the brake and throttle
• Avoid sudden movements with the steering
• Move to the side of the lane that wind is coming from so you’ll have more room for movement

– Look Out for Road Hazards

Don’t let the impressive scenery distract you from the road.

Remember that your bike has fewer contact points with the pavement, so it only takes a little sand or gravel to put you into a slide. Approach railroad tracks with extreme caution, and keep an eye out for potholes at all times.

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