Scenic Motorcycle Rides in Arizona Top Desert Routes

Editor: Kirandeep Kaur on Oct 07,2025

 

When you think of open roads, blue skies, and rugged desert beauty, there’s nothing quite like those for scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona. From the legendary Route 66 Arizona ride to the unbelievable Sedona road trip and the incomparable Grand Canyon motorcycle trip, Arizona has some of the most magnificent rides in the country. Whatever type of motorcycle rider you are. Or if you are just thinking about taking your first long-distance motorcycle trip in the hot desert, this list will highlight the best AZ highways for bikers and give you insider tips to make every mile you travel unforgettable.

Why the Scenic Motorcycle Rides in Arizona Are a Biker’s Dream

Arizona has been made for bikers to ride. The enormous plains, winding canyon roads, and infernal red rocks make this area one of the most photogenic sites for riding. Each highway has a story to tell; the story of freedom, adventure, and being part of the land. 

Scenic motorcycle riding is not about the destination; it is about the journey - the thunderous sound of the engine bouncing off the canyon walls, the smell of sagebrush after a rain shower, and the sun setting beyond painted cliffs. Think iconic motorcycle riding, both in nostalgia and adventure, such as the Sedona road trip and riding on Route 66 in Arizona.

Route 66 Arizona Ride: Cruising America’s Mother Road

Few rides are as iconic to pure American culture as the Route 66 Arizona ride. This famed highway takes you through ghost towns, neon-lit diners, and vintage motels that have been entertaining travelers for decades.

Stop Along Route 66:

  • Seligman, referred to as the birthplace of a revitalized Route 66, is a quirky little town filled with roadside items.
  • Kingman: A reasonable distance for a fuel and food stop; a chance for some great photos. While in town, stop at the Route 66 museum for a glimpse into the historic past of Route 66.
  • Oatman: Must-see old mining town with wild burros roaming the streets. A fun and thrilling experience for a rider; a rustic atmosphere and curvy roads.

If you're searching for history, culture, and just a pure joy of riding, the Route 66 Arizona ride is the road for you; a timeless road that brings bikers together from across the world.

Sedona Road Trip: Ride Through Red Rock Majesty

The Sedona road trip is an incredible scenic motorcycle ride in Arizona. With its iconic red rock formations and active desert energy, Sedona is like no other place on earth; it’s made for two wheels.

Best Routes in Sedona:

  • Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179): At 7.5 miles long, this route unveils astonishing views of red rock on just about every turn you make.
  • Oak Creek Canyon Drive (SR 89A): A winding road between towering cliffs and a lush forest, it is often regarded as one of the more popular desert biker routes and vistas.
  • Jerome Detour: For a short ride, head up to the old mining town of Jerome for a fantastic view and grab a bite to eat at the Haunted Hamburger.

Sedona’s mystical energy and photogenic scenery make it one of the best AZ high destinations.

The Grand Canyon Motorcycle Trip: Ride to the Edge of the World

Every motorcyclist has a dream of taking a motorcycle trip to the Grand Canyon. It is an incredible ride that takes you from high-desert plateaus to pinetree-lined forests, and finally to one of the world's most extraordinary natural spectacles.

Best Routes to the Grand Canyon:

  • From Flagstaff via US 180: This ride features long, sweeping turns and cool mountain air, making it a rider's all-time favorite.
  • Desert View Drive (SR 64): Within the national park, this 25-mile route features numerous scenic overlooks that offer a panoramic view of the canyon from a vantage point way down below.
  • South Rim to Cameron Loop: A bit more under the radar, perfect for the solitude seeker with vista views that will take your breath away.

The Grand Canyon motorcycle trip is an emotional ride - the road, the vastness, the silence all converge into a profoundly beautiful instance.

Best AZ Highways for Bikers: Unforgettable Desert Biking Routes

To fully understand the immensity of the State of Arizona, one must do it from the seat of a motorcycle. Looking for desert riding routes that present function, challenge, and beauty? Check out some of the most highly rated roadways for riders that everyone should experience. 

1. Apache Trail (SR 88): 

Riding through rugged desert terrain and passing the scenic Canyon Lake is thrilling. This ride features multiple sharp turns, stretches of dirt road, and beautiful views all at once.

2. Coronado Trail (US 191): 

This highway is the most technically challenging of the best AZ highways for riders. It features 400 curves in 90 miles of riding. This highway isn’t for beginner riders, but it presents impressive views of the alpine scenery for riders with confidence.

3. Highway 89A (Prescott to Jerome): 

This is another unforgettable ride, although the views are picturesque compared to the previous roads mentioned.  This road features a bit of twist, mountain passes, and historical charm.  This ride is often paired in tandem with the Sedona road trip on a motorcycle and everyone who visits Arizona must try these rides!

4. Highway 60 through Globe: 

It's perfect for the person looking to feel the wind fly through you hair and enjoy a high-speed ride through solitude in the desert. This highway is a classic desert riding route on good pavement under an endless Arizona horizon.

Desert Biking Routes Arizona

Desert Biking Routes: Preparation and Safety Tips

Before embarking on your scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona, preparation is essential. The desert is unpredictable, with hot days and cool nights, and rain is possible.

Gear to Have:

  • Protective Gear: Wear ventilated jackets and pants that allow some air.
  • Hydration System: Carry more water than you think you will need.
  • Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The desert sun will certainly be what it is.
  • Tire Maintenance: Tires wear out faster on hot roads – do a regular check of your tire pressure.

Safety First:

Plan fuel stops. In remote areas on the Route 66 Arizona ride, or Grand Canyon motorcycle trips, gas stations could be several miles apart. Consider GPS apps with offline capabilities, and carry a small emergency kit.

When to Ride: The Best Seasons for Arizona Motorcycle Trips

The best time to enjoy scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona, seasonally speaking, is in the spring or fall, which typically falls between March and May and September to November. These months are generally perfect for long-distance riding – the days are warm, and the nights cool due to the elevation in Northern Arizona. 

  • Spring: Wildflowers and bright skies make your Sedona road trip beautiful.
  • Summer: Early mornings - if you really want to go out into the desert biking routes.
  • Fall: Fewer visitors, and the ideal time for the Grand.

Avoid peak summer rides unless you’re prepared for extreme desert heat.

Arizona’s Biker-Friendly Towns and Stops

During your postcard-worthy motorcycle rides in Arizona, you'll run into towns that will embrace your riding vibe, good food, and a few good road stories.

Some Favorites:

  • Sedona: Perfect for a boutique hotel stay, with amazing views of the red rocks.
  • Flagstaff: A lovely, cool mountain town for those headed to the Grand Canyon.
  • Williams: A classic Route 66 Arizona ride, with diners and some great little motels.
  • Jerome: An old mining town that is popular with bikers for the steep climb upwards, live music, and fantastic views.

All of these stops contribute to the adventure of motorcycling in Arizona, offering a blend of small-town hospitality and rugged Western spirit.

Fuel, Food, and Lodging on Arizona’s Best Biker Routes

For those planning to take a multi-day scenic motorcycle ride in Arizona, being aware of where to stop for lodging and fuel can make a world of difference.

Best Stops for Fuel:

  • Kingman (Route 66 Corridor) will be a perfect stop.
  • Sedona (when leaving /entering upwards of SR 179 and SR 89A intersects)
  • Tusayan (just over the

The Top Lodging Choices for Bikers:

  • Copper Brothel Brewery Inn (Sonoita): A biker-friendly eatery with terrific food. 
  • Little America Hotel (Flagstaff): Reliable and cozy classic lodging for riders.
  • Sky Ranch Lodge (Sedona): Beautiful sunset viewing over red rocks. 

The stay option, paired with local diners such as Cruisers Café 66 in Williams or the Oatman Hotel Restaurant, creates the perfect road trip experience! 

Capturing the Spirit: Photography on Arizona’s Scenic Motorcycle Routes

And don’t forget your camera or GoPro for all the scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona. The beauty of ever-changing light across red rocks or open plains will create new possibilities for photographs in every corner. 

My top photography locations:

  • Sunset at Cathedral Rock (Sedona road trip)
  • Desert View Watchtower (Grand Canyon motorcycle trip)
  • Hackberry General Store (Route 66 Arizona ride)
  • Just don’t forget to pull over safely first! 

Why Every Rider Should Experience Arizona Once

The scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona are freedom incarnate - endless horizons, solitude in the desert, and the uniting feeling of rider and road. Whether you have the nostalgic experience of a Route 66 Arizona ride, a road trip to enjoy the natural beauty of Sedona, or a ride to take in the natural wonders on a Grand Canyon motorcycle trip, Arizona is something you'll remember forever, yet it feels strangely normal. It's not a state to check off a map; it is a journey across the heart of the American Southwest. 

So, gear up, check your tires, and start packing for your desert adventure. The long, endless highways are calling, and the best AZ highways for bikers are waiting for you to create your own story - one mile at a time.

Final Thoughts

If freedom exists on a road, it is paved in the sun-soaked scenery of Arizona. Each turn, canyon, and cloud of desert dust is a story that can only be understood by a rider. 

For all of you who have sought an unforgettable experience riding scenic motorcycle rides in Arizona, now is your time to ride; it's about the desert wind, the endless horizon, and the open highway. 

Get your gear packed and plan your Sedona road trip or Grand Canyon motorcycle trip - everything you're doing.


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