There’s just something about riding through Pennsylvania that taps into every reason I started motorcycling in the first place. It’s not just the switchbacks and sweepers—it’s the way the fog hangs over a valley in the early morning, how a quiet two-lane road winds past a covered bridge, or how the light slices through the trees along a mountain ridge. Pennsylvania is a rider’s playground that mixes Appalachian elevation with colonial charm.

Now that I’m riding my Can-Am Spyder RT (and loving it, by the way), I’ve found myself taking on those once-dreaded twisty and hilly routes that used to raise my anxiety when I was on two wheels. And let me tell you—Pennsylvania's roads were made for this kind of riding, whether you’re on two wheels, three, or something in between.

From well-known byways to barely-on-the-map gems, here are some of the best motorcycle routes through the Keystone State—complete with food stops, scenic viewpoints, and a few overnight options in case you decide to stretch your day trip into something a little more soul-filling.

Exploring the Famous Route: PA Route 6

Scenic Views from the Alleghenies to the Endless Mountains

If you've never ridden PA Route 6, you're missing a classic. It runs straight across the northern tier of the state from Erie to Milford, slicing through small towns and some of the best landscapes Pennsylvania has to offer. Think rolling hills, farmland, and forests that look like a Bob Ross painting—especially in the fall.

This is one of those rides that will make you slow down—not because of traffic (you won’t see much of that), but because you won’t want to miss the view. The Allegheny National Forest is a key highlight here, offering miles of forest roads and turnouts perfect for photos or just stretching your legs.

Recommended eats:

• CJ Spirits Distillery – Located right off Willow Run Drive, this craft distillery serves up house-made spirits alongside hearty sandwiches and appetizers. It’s a welcoming spot to unwind after carving through those Allegheny curves—inside seating, tasting flights, and biker-friendly vibes.

• The Settlers Inn in Hawley for upscale dining with a cozy, historic vibe

Overnight tip:

• The Inn on Maple Street Bed & Breakfast in Port Allegany is a favorite among bikers—friendly hosts and bike-friendly parking included.

Rolling Through the Laurel Highlands

A Mix of History, Curves, and Mountain Vistas

Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, the Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway (Route 711 and 381) offers one of the most satisfying blends of curves, elevation, and small-town Americana. This is where history and natural beauty collide—you’ll be twisting through wooded terrain, passing charming little towns, and even brushing by Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater if you feel like a detour.

I always say this area feels like someone built a national park just for motorcycles. Even on three wheels, you’ll enjoy every lean-in and throttle roll. This route is ideal for day-trippers looking to soak in the scenery without needing GPS every 20 minutes.

Recommended eats:

• Out of the Fire Café in Donegal—fresh, local, and with a killer view of the hills

• The Kitchen on Main in Ligonier for brunch that’ll make you rethink lunch

Where to crash:

• Foggy Mountain Lodge & Pub offers rustic cabins, great food, and a laid-back mountain atmosphere perfect after a full day’s ride

Discovering the Triple Nickel’s Cousin: PA Route 144

Quiet, Twisty, and Unexpectedly Beautiful

For those of us who enjoy the less-traveled path (read: fewer RVs and more sweepers), PA Route 144 delivers in a big way. This lesser-known road runs from Potter County through Centre and Clinton Counties, passing through Sproul State Forest. The terrain shifts from forest to farmland and back again, and while it’s not always freshly paved, that’s part of its charm.

The road has a rhythm to it—tight corners mixed with fast straights, the occasional deer, and a sense of solitude that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret the tourists haven’t. Perfect for riders who want a bit of technical challenge mixed with nature therapy.

Fuel your ride:

• Deb’s Cross Fork Inn for no-fuss comfort food and conversation with locals

• The Elk Creek Café + Aleworks in Millheim is a hip surprise in a rustic shell—great beers, live music, and homemade fare

Rest stop option:

• Sproul State Forest primitive campsites (if you’re the rugged type), or

• Nature Inn at Bald Eagle for more polished accommodations with unbeatable lake views

Taking in the Views: The Grand Army of the Republic Highway (U.S. Route 30)

Historic Routes and Expansive Horizons

U.S. Route 30, better known in PA as the Lincoln Highway, is one of the oldest transcontinental routes in the country and crosses through some truly epic riding in the southern portion of the state. Rolling farmland, sweeping ridgelines, and a healthy dose of Americana make this one a bucket list ride.

While parts of Route 30 have turned into congested strip-mall territory, the stretch from Chambersburg through Bedford and over to Ligonier is something else entirely. The curves near Sideling Hill are sharp and fun (and a little hair-raising if you’re not paying attention), and the views of the valley from the top will have you pulling over just to stare for a bit.

Refuel your belly:

• Jean Bonnet Tavern in Bedford is a historic roadhouse with great food and ghost stories

• Lincoln Café in Stoystown is perfect for a casual breakfast or pie and coffee

Bed down for the night:

• Omni Bedford Springs Resort if you’re feeling fancy

• Budget Host Inn Somerset for a clean, biker-friendly stay without the price tag

A Note from the Seat of My Spyder

Let’s be honest—riding in Pennsylvania is the kind of riding that reminds you why you started in the first place. Whether you’re gliding through farm country or climbing mountain roads with hairpin turns, there's a sense of presence that’s hard to find elsewhere. As someone who’s traded in two wheels for three, I’ve come to appreciate these roads more than ever.

It’s not about going fast. It’s about feeling—the wind, the light, the road under you. And in Pennsylvania, the roads deliver. So whether you’re rolling through the Laurel Highlands, hugging the shoulder of the Alleghenies, or exploring the quiet curves of Route 144, take your time, take a few detours, and for the love of all things throttle—don’t skip dessert.