NEW YORK - New York State offers a stunningly diverse playground for motorcycle enthusiasts. Beyond the urban sprawl of NYC, the Empire State unfolds into vast forests, towering mountains, serene lakeshores, and dramatic river valleys, all connected by roads that seem tailor-made for two wheels. From the challenging twisties of the Catskills to the panoramic vistas of the Adirondacks and the iconic curves of the Hawk's Nest, New York provides truly epic scenic rides.
New York's Scenic Highways: An Epic Motorcycle Ride Guide
This article highlights some of the best routes for motorcycle touring across the state.
1. The Legendary Hawk's Nest (Route 97)
- Location: Along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, between Port Jervis and Hancock.
- The Ride: This famous, relatively short stretch of NY-97 carves directly into the cliffs above the Delaware River. Known for its tight, winding curves and dramatic drop-offs, the Hawk's Nest offers breathtaking views and a thrilling riding experience. Its popularity means it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and requires careful, attentive riding due to the sharp turns and potential for accidents.
2. Majestic Mountains: The Adirondacks
The six-million-acre Adirondack Park offers endless miles of scenic riding through mountains, forests, and countless lakes.
- NYS Route 3 (Olympic Byway): This 170-mile east-west route connects Lake Ontario to Keeseville, traversing the heart of the Adirondacks. It passes through iconic towns like Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Lake Placid, offering diverse landscapes and access to attractions like the Whiteface Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway (seasonal).
- NYS Route 30: Journey north-south through spectacular wilderness, passing Indian Lake, Long Lake, and Blue Mountain Lake. This route is stunning during fall foliage season and offers access to attractions like The Wild Center.
- Adirondack Lake Loop: A popular 90-mile loop starting and ending near Lake George, offering twisty roads and beautiful lake scenery, often incorporating parts of US-9N and other scenic routes.
3. Charming Curves: The Catskills
The Catskill Mountains provide a different flavor of mountain riding, known for winding roads, charming villages, and stunning natural features.
- Route 23A: Famous for its dramatic switchbacks as it climbs through Kaaterskill Clove, passing trailheads for the state's highest cascading waterfall, Kaaterskill Falls. Ride with caution, especially near pedestrian hikers.
- Route 30 (Delaware County): Meander along the shores of the beautiful Pepacton Reservoir, passing through quaint towns like Andes and Margaretville.
- Route 28 (Ulster County): Explore classic Catskill towns like Woodstock and Phoenicia on this scenic route, known for roadside diners and unique lodging.
4. Riverside & Lakeside Beauty (Hudson Valley & Finger Lakes)
- Hudson Valley: Explore routes offering dramatic views of the Hudson River. Storm King Highway (NY-218) provides incredible vistas but is narrow and seasonal. Roads like Seven Lakes Drive through Harriman State Park offer scenic park riding. Sections of US-9W also provide river views. (Note: Always verify motorcycle restrictions on specific parkways like the Taconic).
- Finger Lakes: This region offers rolling hills, vineyards, and stunning lake views. Rides circling the larger lakes like Cayuga or Seneca (e.g., parts of NY-14, NY-89) are popular, as is cruising along Route 20, which connects towns at the northern ends of the lakes.
5. Great Lakes Grandeur: The Seaway Trail
- Location: Follows Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River.
- The Ride: This designated National Scenic Byway offers hundreds of miles of riding with consistent water views, charming harbor towns, historic forts (like Old Fort Niagara), and numerous lighthouses.
Planning Your New York Motorcycle Adventure
- Check Seasonal Closures: Mountain roads like the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway and Storm King Highway are typically closed in winter.
- Verify Parkway Restrictions: Some New York State Parkways have restrictions on motorcycle use; always confirm before planning a route.
- Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather, especially in mountain regions. Pack layers.
- Fuel Stops: Plan fuel stops carefully, particularly when riding through remote areas of the Adirondacks or Catskills.
- Wildlife: Deer are common throughout the state, especially at dawn and dusk. Ride alertly.
New York State is a premier destination for motorcycle touring, offering various scenic exploration routes. From the exhilarating curves of the Hawk's Nest and the vast wilderness of the Adirondacks to the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes and the historic Hudson Valley, the Empire State provides endless opportunities for unforgettable adventures on two wheels. Plan your route, gear up, and discover the scenic highways and byways of New York.
