As the summer sun mellows and the air crisps with the promise of autumn, a unique magic settles over the roads. For riders, both on two and three wheels, fall isn’t just a season; it's a call to adventure. It’s when the world becomes a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows, inviting us to hit the pavement and truly be present. Riding has a way of cutting through the noise of everyday life. It’s a chance to breathe, to find my center, and appreciate the world around me. The thought of constantly riding hilly and twisty roads used to make me anxious, but finding a solution on my Can-Am Spyder allowed me to put my knees back in the wind again, and I'm a day-tripper at heart, just like my husband who has been on two wheels for over 40 years. This guide is for all of us—the two-wheel veterans and the three-wheel adventurers—who want to chase the most breathtaking autumn scenes the Northern US has to offer. So, gear up, because it’s time to discover a different kind of beauty, a beauty that reveals itself on some of the most stunning roads in the country.

New England's Crown Jewel: The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

When you think of fall foliage on a motorcycle, the image of New England almost always comes to mind. It's the granddaddy of autumn road trips, and for good reason. The Kancamagus Highway, or "The Kanc" as it's affectionately known to locals, is a 34-mile stretch of Route 112 that winds through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. There are no gas stations, no cell service, and no stores, so it's a good old-fashioned riding experience. The road is a rider's dream, with sweeping curves, elevation changes, and plenty of places to pull over and soak in the views. While it can get a bit crowded on peak weekends, the sheer beauty of the sugar maples and birches exploding in color makes it a pilgrimage worth taking. It's a road that's just as rewarding on a traditional cruiser as it is on a three-wheeler.

Fueling the Ride & Getting Some Shut-Eye

The best way to experience The Kanc is to plan your trip around its gateway towns. Lincoln, New Hampshire, on the western side, and Conway, New Hampshire, on the eastern side, are filled with charming spots. For a truly New England experience, grab a meal at the Woodstock Inn Brewery in North Woodstock. They have fantastic food and, as the name implies, a great selection of local brews. For breakfast, the legendary Polly's Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill is a non-negotiable stop. Their pancakes, made with locally sourced ingredients, are a perfect way to fuel up for a day of riding. If you’re looking to stay the night, the historic charm of the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa in Whitefield offers a luxurious experience with breathtaking views, while the Omni Mount Washington Hotel is an iconic piece of history with a view of the mountains that’s almost as good as the ride itself.

Michigan’s Enchanted Passage: The Tunnel of Trees

Moving into the Midwest, you’ll find a fall ride that feels like a fairy tale. The Tunnel of Trees is an approximately 20-mile stretch of M-119 that hugs the shore of Lake Michigan from Harbor Springs to Cross Village. What makes this route so unique is that the road is a winding, narrow two-lane with no center line, and the trees grow so close together that they form a dense, colorful canopy overhead. It's less of a high-speed run and more of a slow, sensory experience. You’ll find yourself leaning into gentle curves, the sunlight filtering through the leaves in a stunning display of light and shadow. It's a ride that connects you to the natural world in a way that’s almost spiritual.

Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay

This route is packed with personality. The tiny town of Cross Village is home to the famous Leggs Inn, a Polish-themed restaurant with a quirky vibe and some of the most incredible food and ambiance you’ll ever find. It's a bucket-list destination for many riders. In Harbor Springs, you can find more traditional dining and lodging options. Stafford's Pier Restaurant offers great food with a waterfront view. For lodging, the Inn at Harbor Springs is a cozy and welcoming spot right near the start of the route. The whole area is perfect for a weekend escape filled with great riding, good food, and spectacular views.

New York’s Northern Gem: The Adirondack Scenic Byway

While many riders flock to the Catskills, the Adirondacks offer a quieter, more expansive experience, and a stunning one at that. New York State Route 30 is the star of the show. This scenic byway winds through the Adirondack Park, passing countless lakes, charming small towns, and dense forests that put on a spectacular fall show. The roads here are a mix of smooth, sweeping turns and long, open stretches, making it a perfect ride for all types of machines. You’ll pass through towns like Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop, stretch your legs, and explore.

Sights and Bites Along the Route

A must-see spot on this route is Lake Placid, the home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. The town itself is quaint and has a ton to offer. For a bite to eat, the Adirondack Hotel in Long Lake is a classic spot for a hearty meal, and their rustic charm is a perfect match for the scenery. For a more casual meal, check out The Hoot Owl in Indian Lake, which offers a great roadside stop. If you're staying overnight, there are countless small lodges and bed and breakfasts along the route, offering a cozy and intimate experience that's a perfect counterpoint to the wild beauty outside.

Minnesota's Coastal Canvas: The North Shore Scenic Drive

When you think of a scenic drive, a highway along a massive lake might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota is a hidden gem. Highway 61 from Duluth to the Canadian border is a dramatic, cliff-hugging ride with endless views of the deep blue lake. In the fall, the hillsides leading down to the water are a riot of color, with maples, birches, and oaks creating a fiery display against the cool, crisp air. It’s a route that feels big and expansive, a reminder of the sheer scale of the Great Lakes.

Must-Stop Spots & Local Flavors

You can’t  ride the North Shore without stopping at Betty's Pies in Two Harbors. This Minnesota institution has been serving up delicious pies for over 60 years and is a mandatory stop for any road trip. Another great stop is Tettegouche State Park, where you can take a short hike to a stunning view of the coastline and the fall colors. For lodging, consider a stay at the Larsmont Cottages, which offer lakeside cabins and a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery after a day of riding.

From the legendary passes of New England to the hidden tunnels of the Midwest, fall offers a unique and unforgettable riding experience. It’s a chance to see the world in a new light, to be present in the moment, and to appreciate the simple beauty of a ride on an open road. So get your gear ready, check the weather, and go chase some color. The perfect fall ride is out there, just waiting for you.