There’s something about Arizona that just gets motorcycle riders. Maybe it’s the endless skies, the twisty desert highways, or the way the sun melts into the horizon in a blaze of pink and orange. Whatever it is, Arizona doesn’t just welcome motorcyclists—it dares us to ride. And for those of us who finally got our knees back in the wind (hello three wheels, goodbye panic on mountain curves), it’s a playground that’s hard to beat.

I’ve ridden a little bit of everything over the years—from a cruiser to an ADV bike and now a Can-Am Spyder RT, which by the way has totally revived my riding game. My husband and I are mainly day-trippers, but Arizona? This place makes you want to load up and go the distance. Whether you're on two wheels or three, here’s your guide to doing Arizona right.

Choosing the Right Time to Ride

Let’s get this out of the way—Arizona isn’t for the faint of heart in the summer. If you want to ride in comfort (i.e., not feel like a rotisserie chicken), plan your trip between late September and early May. Spring is especially ideal, with wildflowers in bloom and the temps hovering in that “just right” Goldilocks zone.

Northern Arizona stays cooler thanks to the elevation, while places like Phoenix and Yuma can still flirt with triple digits deep into fall. Plan accordingly, stay hydrated, and for the love of all things leather, wear sunscreen.

Must-Ride Arizona Motorcycle Routes

The Apache Trail (AZ-88)

This partly paved, partly gravel ride is not for the shy, but it’s unforgettable. Winding through the Superstition Mountains east of Phoenix, the Apache Trail serves up tight switchbacks, steep drop-offs, and the kind of views that make you pull over just to catch your breath. Riders with dual-sport or adventure bikes will have the most fun here, but three-wheelers like the Spyder can still enjoy the paved sections.

Stops include Goldfield Ghost Town (yes, it’s touristy, but worth it), Canyon Lake, and Tortilla Flat—home to prickly pear gelato and a saloon that accepts dusty riders with open arms.

Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona

From Flagstaff, drop into Oak Creek Canyon via AZ-89A and let the ride take your breath away. The canyon is lush and scenic, with towering red rocks, switchbacks, and shade—a rarity in Arizona. It’s a short ride at around 30 miles, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in drama.

Once you hit Sedona, the energy shifts. This red rock paradise has everything—vortexes (if you’re into that), artisan shops, and good eats. The Hideaway House has killer views and pizza that doesn’t disappoint.

Monument Valley Scenic Drive

Technically, the 17-mile loop inside Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is a dirt road and not great for road bikes, but the ride to Monument Valley is absolutely worth the journey. Cruise up US-163 from Kayenta and you’ll be treated to one of the most iconic views in the American West. It’s the kind of place where you feel small in the best possible way.

If you're riding a Spyder or something with good clearance, you can navigate the loop—just check with the park rangers. Otherwise, park the bike and hop on a guided jeep tour.

Hidden Gems and Quirky Stops

Route 66 through Seligman and Hackberry

You can’t do Arizona right without hitting a piece of the original Route 66. Between Seligman and Kingman, you’ll find a stretch that’s all retro Americana. Think neon signs, rusted-out classics, and gift shops packed with equal parts charm and junk.

Angel & Vilma’s Original Route 66 Gift Shop in Seligman is run by the guy who helped revive the route’s cultural status. Stop there. Get the photo. Grab a Route 66 root beer.

Jerome: The Vertical Ghost Town

Perched precariously on Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is the kind of place that makes you ask, “Who thought building here was a good idea?” But somehow, it works. Once a booming copper town, Jerome is now home to artists, bikers, and ghosts (allegedly). The ride up is twisty and tight—perfect for experienced riders.

The Haunted Hamburger is a local favorite with big portions and even bigger views. And yes, they say it’s haunted. So maybe don’t eat alone.

Out-of-the-Way Lodging That’s Totally Worth It

Big chain hotels are fine, but Arizona shines when you go off the beaten path. Here are a few options:

• Shash Dine’ Eco-Retreat (Page): A Navajo-owned glamping site with jaw-dropping views of Lake Powell. Stay in a traditional hogan or a canvas tent under the stars.

• La Posada Hotel (Winslow): Yep, that Winslow. This restored Harvey House hotel is a stunner, and you can literally “stand on the corner.” The Turquoise Room restaurant on-site is no joke.

• Spirit Tree Inn (Patagonia): Near the southern border, this B&B is peaceful, quirky, and surrounded by nature. You’ll be sharing space with peacocks and javelinas.

Gas, Gear, and Guts

Don’t mess around when it comes to gas in Arizona. Some stretches—especially in the north and southeast—are long and lonely. Fill up every chance you get. And if you're riding a Spyder like me, you're good for longer distances, but still: this isn’t the place to tempt fate or a 110-degree afternoon.

Pro tip: download offline maps before you leave any major area. Cell service is spotty, especially around places like the Navajo Nation or Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

Also, Arizona law does not require motorcycle helmets for riders over 18, but don’t let that lull you into a false sense of immortality. Gear up. Desert pavement is like a cheese grater if you go down.

National Parks: What You Need to Know

If you’re riding into any of Arizona’s National Parks—like Grand Canyon, Saguaro, or Petrified Forest—there are a few rules to keep in mind:

• Entry Fees: Most parks charge a per-bike fee. If you’re planning to visit more than one, grab an “America the Beautiful” annual pass.

• Noise Regulations: Some parks have decibel limits for vehicles. Don’t be that rider echoing through the canyon at 6 a.m.

• Parking: Motorcycle-specific parking is usually available near visitor centers and major trailheads.

• Wildlife: Don’t feed the animals. Don’t pet the animals. And if you see a javelina, just slowly back away and try not to smell like snacks.

Food That Hits the Spot After a Day in the Saddle

Riding makes you hungry in a way only riders understand. Here are some local favorites:

• The Turquoise Room (Winslow): Classy but not fussy, serving up Native-inspired Southwest dishes like elk medallions and corn & black bean soup.

• MartAnne’s Burrito Palace (Flagstaff): Messy, spicy, delicious Mexican food in a funky setting. Get the huevos rancheros. Trust me.

• Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In (Seligman): Burgers, shakes, and laughs—this quirky little spot has been serving Route 66 travelers for decades.

Wrapping Up the Ride

Arizona is big, bold, and a little bit wild. Just like riding should be. Whether you’re looking to soak in red rock views, twist through mountain passes, or chase sunsets across wide-open desert highways, this state delivers. And if you’re like me—finally back in the wind after a few years of “meh”—Arizona reminds you why you fell in love with riding in the first place.

So fill up the tank, check your tire pressure, and throw on the layers. Arizona’s waiting.