Curves Ahead: Four of North America’s Best Motorcycle Rides

Tail of the Dragon and Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee and North Carolina

Looping around the North Carolina and Tennessee state line, this route can be done in a day, with enough time for rest stops and fill-ups. Start at the Tail of the Dragon and whip around its thrilling 318 curves. Then conquer the Cherohala Skyway, an ambitious construction project and North Carolina’s most expensive highway. Climbing up and around stunning mountains, you’ll ascend more than 5,000 feet—the views here are breathtaking—and eventually descend into the thick Tennessee backwoods. 

The Grand Algoma Tour, Ontario

A ride here takes you into the heart of Algoma. You’ll be immersed in the forest, surrounded by cliffs and mountains, and later soar along the Lake Superior shore. Starting in Sault Ste. Marie, make a full circle going through Wawa, along Lake Huron and into the thick of the beautiful Algoma Headwaters Provincial Park. Then veer off onto Highway 129’s twisty turns, and head back down through Lake Superior Provincial Park with its incredible views of the shoreline.

Finger Lakes, New York

The beautiful scenery and sweeping bends of the Finger Lakes are a major draw for motorcycling enthusiasts. Start at Watkins Glen and circle around long, elegant Seneca Lake. Take breaks to explore the many waterfalls and stay the night to enjoy the surrounding wineries. Then loop around neighbouring Cayuga Lake, the longest of the 11 lakes, or the wishbone-shaped Keuka, known for its surrounding hiking paths.

The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

It goes without saying: this is a legendary Canadian route. Circling Cape Breton, it will take you to the highlands overlooking the Atlantic shore, along sandy beaches and through quaint villages. Plus, there are epic whale-watching lookouts and the curves that motorcyclists dream of.

Making a break for it? Make sure you brush up on all the safety essentials before you go.