For motorcycle enthusiasts, few experiences are as exhilarating as exploring winding roads, basking in the beauty of nature, and feeling the breeze against your skin. New York, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant neighborhoods, offers numerous routes that can transform an ordinary ride into an extraordinary journey. Here, we present ten motorcycle bucket list roads that every rider should explore at least once. Each route promises not only breathtaking views but also an opportunity to shift your perspective and feed your wanderlust.
1. The Catskill Scenic Byway
**Address:** Route 23A, Saugerties, NY 12477
**Contact:** (845) 688-7265
**Website:** catskills.com
This enchanting route winds through the majestic Catskill Mountains, showcasing stunning vistas of lush forests and dramatic peaks. Along the way, riders can marvel at natural wonders like Kaaterskill Falls and explore small towns like Tannersville. The combination of twists and turns offers a thrilling ride while immersing oneself in the serene beauty of nature.
2. The Old West Side – Route 219
**Address:** Route 219, East Aurora, NY 14052
**Contact:** (716) 652-7440
**Website:** eastaurorachamber.org
This scenic byway stretches through quaint villages and lush farmland, making it a picturesque route for a leisurely ride. As you navigate the curves, take the time to stop in East Aurora to savor local cuisine at unique diners. The combination of rural charm and vibrant landscapes allows for a reconnection with the simpler joys of life.
3. The Adirondack Northway (I-87)
**Address:** I-87, Plattsburgh, NY 12901
**Contact:** (518) 563-1000
**Website:** visitalbanyny.com
This iconic stretch of interstate takes riders through the heart of the Adirondack Park, revealing expansive lakes and towering pines. The Northway is a fantastic way to explore this vast wilderness, offering several scenic overlooks where one can stop and appreciate the grandeur of the region. Feel the rush as you zip through this stunning corridor surrounded by nature’s majesty.
4. The New York State Route 22
**Address:** NY-22, various locations
**Contact:** Varies by location
**Website:** nysdot.gov
Stretching along the eastern border of New York, NY-22 is rife with sweeping views of the countryside. This road is dotted with charming towns such as Salem and Granville, which invite riders to pause and explore local shops and eateries. The route also offers proximity to Lake Champlain, adding an aquatic panorama to an already picturesque ride.
5. The Hudson River Valley Scenic Byway
**Address:** Various locations along the Hudson River, starting from New York City
**Contact:** (518) 473-4290
**Website:** hudsonrivervalley.com
A journey along the Hudson River Valley is a feast for the senses. This route, rich in history and culture, features striking views of the river framed by rolling hills and historic sites, including George Washington’s headquarters. The ride allows for immersing oneself in both the natural beauty and the significant legacy of the region while experiencing the juxtaposition of urban and rural environments.
6. The Finger Lakes Wine Region
**Address:** Starting point: NY-14, Geneva, NY 14456
**Contact:** (800) 440-4894
**Website:** fingerlakeswinecountry.com
For those who appreciate fine wine alongside exhilarating rides, the Finger Lakes Wine Region is unparalleled. The roads around the lakes are a motorcyclist’s dream, winding through vineyards and offering stunning views of the water. Make time to visit local wineries to indulge in tastings; this route perfectly marries adventure with indulgence.
7. The Taconic State Parkway
**Address:** Taconic State Parkway, Columbia County, NY
**Contact:** (518) 767-2200
**Website:** nysdot.gov
The Taconic State Parkway is lauded as one of the most scenic highways in New York. This serene route features lush woodlands, rolling farmlands, and beautiful vistas that change with the seasons. Riders often relish the well-maintained roads, and the chance to catch glimpses of wildlife is an added thrill. An afternoon ride here can refresh both body and spirit.
8. The Rochester Foothills – Route 15
**Address:** NY-15, Rochester, NY 14620
**Contact:** (585) 428-7100
**Website:** visitrochester.com
Particularly colorful in the autumn, Route 15 takes riders through rolling hills and vineyards en route to Rochester. This road is lined with stunning views, artisan farms, and historic sites. Be sure to stop at the local markets to sample fresh produce or homemade treats, making your journey an even more delightful adventure.
9. The Route through the Thousand Islands
**Address:** Start in Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
**Contact:** (315) 482-2511
**Website:** visit1000islands.com
This unique route navigates through the picturesque Thousand Islands, each with its own charm. The winding roads hug the coast and offer mesmerizing views of seascapes that make you almost forget you’re still in New York. The option to hop on a ferry for a quick island visit adds an element of adventure to this unforgettable ride.
10. The Long Island Loop
**Address:** Route 27A, various locations
**Contact:** Varies by location
**Website:** discoverlongisland.com
Rounding out this bucket list is the eclectic Long Island Loop. Traverse coastal roads and luxuriate in the fresh ocean air while enjoying stunning views of open beaches and charming seaside towns. This route encapsulates the vitality and culture of Long Island, providing an inspiring backdrop for a ride that connects ocean and sky.
Embrace the allure of the open road, and allow each of these motorcycle journeys to fill your soul with adventure. Each route boasts its own unique charm, beckoning riders to explore, discover, and forge unforgettable memories in the great expanse of New York.
