Best Motorcycle Routes in Arizona for an Unforgettable Ride

Arizona offers some of the most scenic and exhilarating motorcycle routes in the country, from the stunning red rocks of Sedona to the vast stretches of the Sonoran Desert. With winding roads, diverse landscapes, and plenty of stops for adventure along the way, Arizona’s highways and byways are perfect for riders who crave freedom on the open road.

Whether you're a Harley or Indian enthusiast, here are some of the best routes to add to your Arizona motorcycle bucket list. And if you're looking to customize your ride, we’ve got a recommendation for you at the end.

1. Apache Trail (AZ Route 88)

The Apache Trail, one of Arizona’s classic routes, winds through desert landscapes, rugged cliffs, and picturesque lake views. Starting in Apache Junction, you’ll ride past the famous Superstition Mountains and follow the road to Theodore Roosevelt Lake. Expect some rough terrain and a thrilling mix of paved and unpaved roads, especially near Fish Creek Hill. Perfect for riders who enjoy a bit of adventure, this route also offers plenty of stops for photos and wildlife watching.

Highlights:

• Stop at Canyon Lake for a scenic overlook.
• Visit Goldfield Ghost Town, an old mining settlement with a lot of character.

2. Route 89A (Prescott to Jerome)

One of Arizona’s most beloved rides, Route 89A between Prescott and Jerome takes you through twisting mountain roads, high-altitude forests, and historic towns. As you ascend Mingus Mountain, the route provides breathtaking views of Verde Valley and the Sedona red rocks in the distance. With plenty of hairpin turns, this road is made for experienced riders who appreciate a challenging yet rewarding route.

Highlights:

• Jerome, a quirky former mining town, is a great place to stop for food and sightseeing.
• Take a break at Mingus Mountain Vista for a panoramic view of the valley below.

3. Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive (US Route 60)

Known as the "mini-Grand Canyon," the Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive along US Route 60 is a hidden gem. This stretch of road offers a thrilling descent into the canyon, with sharp curves and sweeping views of the Salt River below. The route starts near Globe and leads you to Show Low, passing through deep canyons and lush riparian areas. It’s a great option for riders who love natural beauty combined with the thrill of tight turns.

Highlights:

• Salt River Canyon Rest Area has amazing photo opportunities.
• Stop in Globe to explore its historic downtown area.

4. Coronado Trail (US Route 191)

The Coronado Trail, also known as "Devil’s Highway" due to its original numbering as Route 666, is an epic route for experienced motorcyclists. The 123-mile stretch from Clifton to Springerville winds through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and showcases Arizona’s remote beauty. With more than 400 tight turns and drastic elevation changes, this route is intense and not for the faint-hearted. But if you’re up for the challenge, the Coronado Trail is one of Arizona’s most rewarding rides.

Highlights:

• Explore Clifton’s historic downtown before you hit the trail.
• Take a break in Alpine for some small-town charm and local dining.

5. Sedona Red Rock Scenic Byway (AZ Route 179)

While shorter than other motorcycle routes on this list, the Sedona Red Rock Scenic Byway offers some of the most iconic Arizona views. The road weaves through Sedona’s vibrant red rock landscape, with plenty of spots to pull over and take in the scenery.

It’s an excellent choice if you want a quick but visually stunning ride, and you can easily pair it with other routes in the Sedona area. The red rock formations are particularly striking during sunrise or sunset, adding a magical quality to the ride.

Highlights:

• Take in the stunning views at Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.
• Stop in Sedona for unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries.

6. Tucson to Mount Lemmon (Catalina Highway)

Starting in the desert landscape of Tucson, the ride up to Mount Lemmon is one of Arizona’s most scenic routes, with dramatic changes in landscape as you climb. This route takes you from cactus-studded desert to pine forests, offering breathtaking views and plenty of twists and turns. At the top, you’ll find the small village of Summerhaven, where you can stop for a bite to eat before heading back down.

Highlights:

• Stop at Windy Point Vista for panoramic views.
• Enjoy the cool pine forests at the summit—a refreshing change from the desert heat.

Take Your Ride to the Next Level with Dirty Bird Concepts

Each of these routes showcases Arizona’s stunning landscapes and thrilling roads, perfect for making unforgettable memories on your motorcycle. But before you hit the road, why not take your riding experience to the next level? At Dirty Bird Concepts, we specialize in custom parts for Harley and Indian motorcycles, offering everything from audio systems for your favorite tunes to fenders and nacelles that elevate your bike’s style. Our high-quality parts are built to handle rugged routes like the Coronado Trail, all while keeping you rolling in comfort and standout flair.

Whether you’re customizing for comfort on long rides or just want to stand out on the open road, Dirty Bird Concepts has everything you need to make your bike truly one-of-a-kind. Before your next Arizona adventure, visit us to explore our range of custom Harley and Indian parts and get your ride road-ready in style.