The Best Motorcycle Rides in Alabama
Southern Roads, Sweet Rides
Alabama might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a motorcycle adventure, but this Southern gem is full of winding backroads, scenic highways, and historic towns just waiting to be explored on two wheels. Whether you're after rolling hills, sweeping river views, or a taste of Alabama’s rich history, there’s a perfect ride for YOU here.
Let’s take a look at some of the best motorcycle routes in Alabama that’ll have you twisting the throttle and soaking in the sights.
The Natchez Trace Parkway: A Ride Through History
Route Highlights: Tupelo, MS → Florence, AL
Distance: ~120 miles (Alabama section)
Why You’ll Love It: Historic charm, smooth pavement, and scenic overlooks
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a legendary road stretching from Mississippi through Alabama and into Tennessee, offering bikers a smooth and scenic motorcycle ride with little traffic and no commercial vehicles. The Alabama portion takes you through rolling countryside, past Native American historical sites, and alongside the Tennessee River.
Must-stop places include:
Rock Spring Nature Trail – A peaceful spot with a short walking trail along a bubbling spring.
Colbert Ferry – A historical river crossing site with picnic areas and stunning water views.
Florence, AL – A charming town with a vibrant music scene and great Southern eats.
The speed limit is a soft 50 mph, making this a ride best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
Little River Canyon Parkway: Alabama’s Mini Grand Canyon
Route Highlights: Fort Payne → Little River Canyon National Preserve → Eberhart Point
Distance: ~11 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Stunning canyon views, waterfalls, and twisty roads
This short but spectacular motorcycle ride winds through Little River Canyon National Preserve, home to one of the deepest canyons in the Eastern U.S. The road follows the canyon rim, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, rock formations, and lush forests.
Key stops include:
Little River Falls – A gorgeous 45-foot waterfall that’s a must-see.
Canyon Rim Parkway – A scenic byway with multiple overlooks, perfect for photo ops.
Grace’s High Falls – Alabama’s tallest waterfall, visible from an overlook.
While the ride is short, the scenery and curvy roads make it a favorite among bikers.
Bankhead National Forest Loop: A Ride Through the Wilderness
Route Highlights: Moulton → Sipsey Wilderness → Double Springs
Distance: ~50 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Secluded forest roads, waterfalls, and wildlife.
If you love riding your motorcycle through dense forests and quiet, curvy roads, this loop through Bankhead National Forest is a must. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls,” the area is home to stunning cascades, rolling hills, and plenty of peaceful two-lane roads.
Highlights along the ride:
Sipsey River Picnic Area – A great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Kinlock Falls – A hidden gem where you can cool off in the water.
Natural Bridge Park – Home to the longest natural rock bridge east of the Rockies.
This ride is especially beautiful in the fall when the trees explode into shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Cheaha Mountain Loop: The Highest Point in Alabama
Route Highlights: Talladega → Cheaha State Park → Oxford
Distance: ~60 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Mountain views, tight curves, and fresh air.
For those craving elevation, this route takes you up to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet. The ride winds through the Talladega National Forest, offering sharp turns, sweeping views, and a sense of adventure.
Stops you can’t miss:
Cheaha State Park – Stop at Bald Rock for an epic panoramic view.
Skyway Motorway – A scenic ridge-top road with exhilarating curves.
Talladega Scenic Drive – A stretch of Highway 281 known for its beauty.
This is one of Alabama’s best rides for those who love mountains and twisty roads.
The Gulf Coast Ride: Beaches, Bayous, and Bridges
Route Highlights: Mobile → Gulf Shores → Orange Beach
Distance: ~60 miles
Why You’ll Love It: Coastal breezes, ocean views, and seafood stops.
For a totally different vibe, head south to Alabama’s Gulf Coast for a motorcycle ride filled with sunshine, sea air, and stunning waterfront views. Start in Mobile and cruise down to Gulf Shores, passing through scenic bayou country and historic towns.
Places worth checking out:
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – A historic military museum in Mobile.
Fort Morgan – A Civil War-era fort with incredible views.
The Hangout – A famous biker-friendly beach bar in Gulf Shores.
The ride is best at sunrise or sunset, when the light reflects beautifully off the water.
Final Thoughts
Alabama is full of hidden gems for motorcyclists, offering everything from sweeping mountain roads to relaxing coastal cruises. So, pack your saddlebags, fire up your bike, and hit the road—sweet home Alabama is waiting for you!
What’s your favorite ride in Alabama? Let us know in the comments!
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