The Best Motorcycle Rides in Wyoming
Wyoming is big, bold, and built for the open road. Known for its wide-open spaces, rugged mountains, and rich western history, it’s one of the most breathtaking states to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re carving through alpine passes or cruising across windswept plains, Wyoming delivers high-adventure motorcycle rides with unforgettable scenery.
Here are the top motorcycle routes that every rider should experience in the Cowboy State.
1. Beartooth Highway (US-212)
Distance: ~68 miles (Cooke City, MT to Red Lodge, MT – passing through northwest WY)
Best Time to Ride: Late May to mid-September
Beartooth Highway isn’t just one of the best rides in Wyoming—it’s one of the best in the entire U.S. Stretching from the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone to Red Lodge, Montana, this high-mountain pass reaches nearly 11,000 feet in elevation. Expect jaw-dropping switchbacks, glacial lakes, snowbanks in summer, and panoramic views that will stop you in your tracks.
Must-see: Top of the World Store, Beartooth Pass Overlook
Tip: Weather can change fast at high elevations—bring layers and check conditions before riding.
2. Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296)
Distance: ~47 miles (Between Cody and Cooke City, MT)
Best Time to Ride: Late spring through early fall
Connecting with the Beartooth Highway, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway is a curving masterpiece that climbs through the Absaroka Mountains. It’s smooth, well-paved, and offers epic vistas of the Sunlight Basin. The ride is named after Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce tribe and follows part of his historic retreat route.
Must-see: Dead Indian Summit Overlook, Sunlight Creek Bridge
Pair it with: A loop ride including Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone's northeast entrance.
3. Yellowstone National Park Loop (Grand Loop Road)
Distance: ~142 miles (loop within the park)
Best Time to Ride: Summer to early fall
There’s no riding experience quite like Yellowstone. The Grand Loop Road takes you past geysers, waterfalls, and wildlife-rich valleys. While traffic can be slow and the roads are shared with RVs and tourists, the scenery is 100% worth it. Bison often roam the roads, so be alert!
Must-see: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and Mammoth Hot Springs
Note: Entry fees apply; plan ahead for lodging or camping if staying overnight.
4. Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway (US-20/WY-789)
Distance: ~34 miles (Shoshoni to Thermopolis)
Best Time to Ride: Spring through fall
This short but sweet route cuts through the dramatic Wind River Canyon, where the cliffs rise sharply on both sides of the road. The ride hugs the Wind River and features tunnels carved through rock. It’s especially striking in the early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the canyon walls.
Must-see: Thermopolis Hot Springs, Bighorn River views
Bonus: Relax in the world’s largest mineral hot spring at Hot Springs State Park.
5. Snowy Range Scenic Byway (WY-130)
Distance: ~29 miles (West of Laramie to Saratoga)
Best Time to Ride: Late June through early fall (seasonal road)
Often called a mini Beartooth, this route climbs over the Medicine Bow Mountains, offering incredible alpine scenery without the tourist crowds. The Snowy Range peaks and reflective mountain lakes make this a great ride for photographers and nature lovers.
Must-see: Mirror Lake, Medicine Bow Peak
Tip: Ride it in the early morning for cool temps and fewer vehicles.
6. Devils Tower Loop (US-14 to WY-24)
Distance: ~60-mile loop
Best Time to Ride: Spring through fall
No trip to northeastern Wyoming is complete without a ride to the iconic Devils Tower National Monument, America’s first national monument. Start in Sundance and take a loop through Aladdin and Hulett on scenic WY-24. The ride is smooth, scenic, and surprisingly lush in spring and early summer.
Must-see: Devils Tower, Belle Fourche River
Pair it with: A stop in Deadwood or Sturgis if you’re heading east into South Dakota.
7. Big Horn Mountains – Shell Canyon and Ten Sleep Canyon
Distance: Varies by route (~100+ miles combined)
Best Time to Ride: Late spring through fall
The Bighorn Mountains are a treasure trove for riders. US-14 (Shell Canyon) from Greybull to Sheridan and US-16 (Ten Sleep Canyon) from Worland to Buffalo are both stunning rides with hairpin curves, massive canyon views, waterfalls, and cool mountain air.
Must-see: Shell Falls, Meadowlark Lake, Powder River Pass
Tip: Watch for moose and deer—this is prime wildlife country.
8. Red Desert & South Pass
Distance: ~120 miles (Rock Springs to Lander)
Best Time to Ride: Late spring to fall (watch for wind)
For something off the beaten path, explore Wyoming’s Red Desert. The ride from Rock Springs to Lander via US-191 and WY-28 passes through South Pass, the historic route for pioneers heading west. You’ll get big skies, sagebrush plains, and a feeling of total freedom.
Must-see: South Pass City State Historic Site, Continental Divide
Warning: It's remote. Fuel up, and bring water and supplies.
Pro Tips for Riding in Wyoming:
Weather Watch: Wyoming’s weather is extreme. You can hit rain, snow, wind, and heat—all in the same day. Check forecasts and dress in layers.
Wildlife Alert: Deer, elk, bison, and even bears are common. Ride alert, especially at dawn and dusk.
Gas Up Often: Long stretches of road may have few services. Fill your tank when you can.
Helmet Laws: Helmets are required for riders under 18, but recommended for all due to unpredictable conditions.
High Elevation: Some mountain roads exceed 10,000 feet. Take it easy if you're not acclimated.
Final Thoughts:
Wyoming isn’t just a state—it’s a full-throttle experience. From majestic mountain passes to quiet desert roads, this is a place where the spirit of the West rides alongside you. Whether you're chasing curves or cruising the high plains, the Cowboy State delivers raw beauty and wide-open adventure at every turn.
So grab your gear, hit the throttle, and explore some of the wildest rides in America. Wyoming is waiting.
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