Favorite Local Motorcycle Routes: Missouri
Posted by ROGER HEUMANN
Missouri is filled with motorcycle roads that have a lot of rolling hills and unspoiled scenery. Riders can combine tourist attractions, hiking, camping, antique shops and more in The Show Me State. There are also world-class accommodations to enjoy between rides. Missouri is a state that has a little of everything. Here are some of the best routes in this area of the country.
-K Highway
This short ride takes you right through Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area. You will be surrounded by pine trees and can enjoy wildlife like deer and other stellar scenery. There are twists and turns in the roads, which are in good condition, but don’t plan on stopping because there are no shoulders.
-Roaring River Roller Coaster
This 30-mile trek takes you through a few small farm areas, but it is mostly made up of woods with scenic views. Watch for bald eagles when you drive through here. You’ll enjoy dips, hills, sharp curves, twists and great pavement. The Roaring River State Park makes for a nice break.
-Branson Table Rock Loop
This short ride takes you from Branson to Table Rock Lake and back. There’s plenty to see and do in Branson and you can take yourself away from the busyness of that area to the quiet lake scenery for a few hours. The perfect blacktop has hills and twisties to keep the good times rolling.
-Mark Twain National Forest Circle
You’ll want to grab a camera for this circle, which takes you right through Mark Twain National Forest. You’ll have plenty of creeks, river crossings, and other overlooks to enjoy as you go. The roads are a bit bumpy, but mostly in good condition and the twisties are a lot of fun. There are a few gas stations along the way, but not much else so pack a picnic lunch.
-Bagnell Dam Loop
This route is over 70 miles long and will give you a taste of the Missouri Ozark region. You’ll find some fast hills and tight turns to make it even more fun. Some of the turns are quick so take things slow. The road quality is good and there are often a lot of others riding in the area. It’s easy to sight see so take the drive slow and stop as needed.
-Peach Float Cruise
You have 35 miles to enjoy through Missouri farmland on this route. You also go through some good crossings and the Harry S. Truman Reservoir. Enjoy the curves and switchbacks along the way and don’t worry about potholes because you won’t see any.
-North Columbia Route
This route gives you varied, typical Missouri scenes of fields, streams, sweeping hills and farmland. Get a taste for the state on this two-lane country highway with a few residential houses along the way. The turns and elevation changes are fun, but you’ll want to keep an eye out for wildlife.
Missouri has a lot to offer riders who enjoy scenic views and fun routes. Enjoy as many as you can and go back again for your favorites. Just don’t forget to try a new route or two each time so you don’t miss anything.
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