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Top 6 Motorcycle Riding Spots in Alabama

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Casey Davis

If you're a riding (or driving) enthusiast in Alabama, you won’t have a hard time finding a route where you can go on a long ride. Known as the Heart of Dixie, Alabama offers an incredible mix of landscapes, from mountain roads to coastal routes perfect for any two-wheeled, three-wheeled, or even four-wheeled adventures. 

Let’s not forget, aside from classic films like Forrest Gump and Sweet Home Alabama, our state has also hosted racing flicks like Will Ferrell’s Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, which proves how ideal the state is to set engines running for miles and miles. 

So, whether you love the thrill of sharp turns or just looking to relax in some peaceful countryside, Alabama has something exciting for every rider. In this blog, we’ll dive into six of our top destinations for motorcycle riding in Alabama.

1. Talladega Forest Loop (AL-49, AL-281, and Hwy 9)

Distance: 52 miles
Time To Ride: 1 hour

First on the list is Talladega Forest. This route, famous for its connection to the high-speed thrills of Talladega, enables you to cruise along the Talladega National Forest, passing through charming small towns, rolling meadows, while getting a taste of the Appalachian Mountains. For us, it's a perfect blend of winding roads and picturesque views that will make your motorcycle ride one for the books! 

2. Little River Canyon Parkway (AL Hwy 176)

Distance: 16 miles
Time To Ride: 30 minutes

This two-lane motorbike path in Alabama winds through the dense forests of the Little River Canyon Natural Preserve. It is one of the shortest motorbike rides on our list, but it is incredibly scenic. Begin this Alabama motorcycle trip on the Overlook Trail via the Little River Canyon. Fall is arguably the ideal time to do this excursion because the foliage is at its height. However, the gorgeous panoramas are spectacular year-round. 

3. Guntersville Lake (Route 67, AL-35 and AL-227)


Distance: 32 miles
Time To Ride: 1 hour

Here, you can cruise through the forests and scenic waterfront roads around Lake Guntersville in northwestern Alabama. This route features some of the best twists in the state and offers stunning views as it winds through Lake Guntersville State Park. Most of the ride runs parallel to the lake and the Tennessee River which gives you a relaxing experience thanks to its smooth, well-maintained pavement. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, you'll enjoy the easy curves and breathtaking lake vistas. It's a serene ride that's a perfect alternative to the nearby US-79! 

4. Montgomery to Talladega Loop

Distance: 262 miles
Time To Ride: Half to Full Day

For those of you who want to spend a full day of riding, the Montgomery to Talladega loop is what we highly recommend. This extensive route allows you to explore the scenic beauty of Alabama while also offering the chance to visit Talladega National Forest and Cheaha State Park. With options to hike and camp along the way, this ride provides a fantastic mix of road adventure and outdoor exploration. Make sure your camera's ready for some incredible photo ops!

5. Natchez Trace

Distance: 33 miles (Alabama section)
Time To Ride: 1 hour

The Natchez Trace is a must-ride route that extends from Tennessee to Mississippi, with a charming 33-mile section running through Alabama. As you ride through the De Soto National Forest, you’ll also be following a historic trail used by Native Americans and early settlers. Even better, this motorcycle route isn't heavily trafficked, offering a peaceful ride with no commercial vehicles allowed. Plus, you won't encounter any stop signs, traffic lights, or cross traffic!

6. Alabama Dragon (Route 25)

Distance: 20 miles
Time To Ride: 30 minutes

Now if you’re craving a quick but thrilling ride, you should check out the Alabama Dragon on Route 25. This 20-mile stretch between Leeds and Vincent offers a mix of lush scenery, rock formations, and mountain views. With its smooth, paved surface and no (or maybe a little) commercial traffic, you can really open up and enjoy the ride! Just be prepared for some challenging turns as you approach Coosa Mountain and Thomson Gap—perfect for testing your riding skills. 

Ride All You Want in Alabama!

And that’s our top 6 motorcycle destinations in Alabama. Whether you’re in the mood for mountain views, historical routes, or coastal scenery, there’s a road in Alabama that’s perfect for you. Beyond these locations, Alabama is also a home to three of our best Harley-Davidson dealerships where you can find the best brand new and pre owned bikes and trikes – Harley-Davidson of Montgomery; Hooligan Harley-Davidson in Oxford, Alabama; and Redstone Harley-Davidson in Huntsville, Alabama. Wherever you are in the state, we’re here to help you get the most out of your motorcycle adventures!