“No hour of life is wasted when it’s spent on two wheels.”
Anonymous
Whether you travel for a day, weekend or longer, or attend the largest motorcycle rally in the Midwest, one thing’s for sure: Missouri’s motorcycle highways provide marvelous views, thrilling turns and miles of memories. Once you feel the twist of the curves, see the breathtaking views and hear your engine reverberate off the asphalt as the sun hits your face, you’ll be asking the Show-Me State to show you more of its excellent highways.
Recommended Routes
Highways 19, 94 and 76 are popular among motorcycle enthusiasts. The terrain and scenery are versatile with rolling hills, state parks filled with thick forests of hickories, oaks and American elm, flowing rivers and beautiful wine country views. The land transforms from one mile to the next, and every curve is as enjoyable as the last.
Highway 19
One of Missouri’s original 1922 highways, Highway 19 runs from New London (Northeast region) to Thayer (Southeast region) and is 262 miles long. Passing through the delightful, small towns of Hermann, Salem and Eminence, the road has plenty of excitement with serpentine-like bends, elevation changes, plus several stops to pull off and admire the breathtaking scenery. This itinerary will make planning your trip an ease.
Highway 94
Highway 94 is a little more than 135 miles, and it begins in West Alton near St. Louis and ends in the state’s capital city, Jefferson City, winding through the Northeast and Central regions. Expect to see sweeping vineyards and towering bluffs as you ride through the beautiful Missouri River Valley.
Highway 76
Highway 76 runs through the southern portion of the state, beginning in Willow Springs and ending in the small community of Tiff City. It’s close to 210 miles in length and winds through Branson, where riders can see multiple roadside attractions and stunning sights of the Ozark Mountains. Comparable to the ups and downs and twists and turns of rollercoasters, you’ll find yourself surrounded by flourishing forestry and occasional river views.
Bikefest Lake of the Ozarks
Spanning several days, Bikefest is a popular event in the stunningly expansive Lake of the Ozarks. It began in 2006 and now draws more than 100,000 attendees from throughout the U.S. With an array of bars and restaurants, live music and entertainment shows, plus vending spaces and more, it’s a whirlwind of a weekend sure to get your motor running.
In preparation for your summer plans, the Show-Me State invites you to ride its roads, visit its communities and marvel at what it has to offer. Now that you know where to start, fill up your gas tank and put some miles behind you. For even more road trip inspiration, check out some of the best-loved scenic Missouri road trips for fall.