Montana is one of those rare places that seems to exist outside of time. With its towering mountain ranges, windswept plains, turquoise rivers, and endless skies, the state practically begs you to roll on the throttle and go exploring. If you’re a motorcycle rider looking to trade suburban sprawl for soul-resetting scenery, Montana serves up some of the best open-road therapy around. It doesn’t matter if you're on two wheels or three—Montana has a way of reminding you why you fell in love with riding in the first place.

I didn’t grow up in Montana, but I swear something shifts in your DNA when you ride through it. For me, it was like swapping the background noise of daily chaos for an internal monologue of “Wow.” And while I may now be riding a 2021 Can-Am Spyder RT (a three-wheeled game-changer that gave me back the confidence to ride twisties without the second-guessing), the thrill of chasing horizon lines hasn’t changed a bit.

Whether you're rolling in from a neighboring state or flying in and renting a bike near Bozeman or Missoula, this guide will give you a roadmap to some of the most scenic and soul-filling motorcycle routes in Big Sky Country—plus where to eat, crash (in the sleep sense), and soak it all in.

Scenic Montana Motorcycle Routes Worth the Miles

Beartooth Highway – “The Ride That Makes You Feel Small in the Best Way”

Route Overview: Red Lodge to Cooke City via US-212
Distance: 68 miles
Time: About 2–3 hours (longer if you stop—which you absolutely should)

If you only ride one road in Montana, let it be the Beartooth Highway. Winding its way through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, this route climbs to nearly 11,000 feet with panoramic views that’ll make you forget whatever you were stressed about before. The sweepers are smooth, the switchbacks are punchy, and yes—there may still be snow at the top even in July.

This ride is like dating someone way out of your league: exhilarating, slightly terrifying, and completely worth it.

Best Eats: Red Lodge Café in Red Lodge is a retro gem that’s been serving comfort food since the 1930s. For dinner, try Carbon County Steakhouse—it’s a local legend for a reason.

Where to Stay: Alpine Lodge in Red Lodge is motorcycle-friendly and has that cozy, rustic charm without feeling like you’re sleeping in a museum.

Going-to-the-Sun Road – “Montana’s Crown Jewel”

Route Overview: West Glacier to St. Mary through Glacier National Park
Distance: 50 miles
Time: 2–3 hours depending on traffic and photo stops

Let’s talk bucket lists. If you haven’t ridden Going-to-the-Sun Road, what are you even doing with your life? Carved into the cliffs of Glacier National Park, this road defies logic—and gravity. Expect jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes, towering peaks, and waterfalls cascading right beside the road.

Do yourself a favor and check the park’s website ahead of time, as this road is only open during summer months and occasionally closes due to weather. Also, note that certain parts of the park now require a vehicle reservation pass.

Best Eats: Belton Chalet in West Glacier offers classic Montana fare with a view. Try their trout dish—it’s as fresh as it gets.

Where to Stay: Glacier Park Lodge is a historic spot with timber beams and mountain views. If you want to be closer to nature, opt for Apgar Village Lodge near Lake McDonald.

The Bitterroot Valley Loop – “The Underrated Gem”

Route Overview: Missoula → Lolo → Darby → Hamilton → Missoula (via MT-93 and Eastside Hwy)
Distance: About 130 miles round trip
Time: 3–5 hours with stops

This loop down the Bitterroot Valley flies under the radar but packs a punch. You’ll ride along the edge of the Bitterroot Mountains with wildflower-dotted meadows, small towns full of character, and the kind of empty two-lane roads that remind you what peace and quiet actually feel like.

It’s a great day ride for those based near Missoula. And if you're a sucker for historical stops, the Traveler’s Rest State Park in Lolo was once a Lewis & Clark campsite.

Best Eats: Stop at Nap’s Grill in Hamilton for one of the best burgers in the state. Trust me—this isn’t fast food, this is burger royalty. Also, Lolo Creek Steakhouse is a carnivore’s dream wrapped in cabin walls.

Where to Stay: Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton offers clean, spacious rooms with easy parking for bikes.

More Roads Worth Exploring If You’ve Got the Time

Montana Highway 200 – “Long, Lonely, and Perfectly Peaceful”

Running from the Idaho border all the way to the North Dakota line, MT-200 is a backroads blessing. You’ll pass through open prairies, small towns, and river valleys that seem to exist just to be photographed. It’s a great route for riders who want to slow down and take it all in without competing with summer traffic.

Rider Tip: Pack extra fuel and snacks—gas stations can be few and far between.

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway – “An Offshoot Worth Every Turn”

Okay, yes, most of this route is technically in Wyoming, but it connects beautifully with the Beartooth Highway. If you’re already in the Red Lodge/Cooke City area, tack this onto your route. You’ll thank me when you’re leaning through those sweepers surrounded by craggy ridges and open meadows.

Tips for Riding Montana Like You Know What You’re Doing

Weather Whiplash: It can be sunny in the valley and snowing on the pass. Pack layers. And yes, heated gear is your friend.

Wildlife Watch: You’re not in suburbia anymore. Deer, elk, and even the occasional bear might cross your path. Slow down in the mornings and evenings.

Fuel First: Towns can be spaced far apart. Top off your tank often and carry a fuel bottle if you're heading into the really remote stretches.

Respect the Roads: Some of these mountain passes don’t mess around. If you’re on three wheels like me, you're golden. If you’re still on two and haven’t practiced your mountain riding in a while, give yourself grace and time.

Where to Gear Up Before You Go

Need some Montana-ready gear before you hit the road? Think layers, waterproofs, and something that’ll make you look cool even if you're eating bug splatter at 65 mph.

And if you’re a proud rider who wants to show off your American spirit while exploring this wide-open land, gear up with something that reps your roots and your freedom-loving heart. Because nothing pairs with Montana’s open roads like a solid attitude, a bit of grit, and a shirt that says you mean business.

Why Montana Sticks With You

Montana isn’t just a place to ride—it’s a place to remember. Every curve reveals another postcard view, and every small town you stop in is a reminder that real America is alive and well. Whether you’re riding solo to clear your mind, riding two-up with your partner in crime, or doing what I do—finding your freedom all over again on three wheels—Montana delivers.

From the Beartooth Pass to the Bitterroot Valley, Big Sky Country has a rhythm that syncs up with your soul. It’s not just about the miles—it’s about how those miles change you.