Whether you live on the West Coast or just plan to visit the Golden State it is ideal to take your bike out along one of the scenic coastal routes. California is home to ample sunshine, breathtaking ocean views and roads that are just begging to be rode by you and your bike.
As you ride along the Pacific Coast Highway 1 from Sausalito to Leggett you can expect to encounter twist and turns, straightaway’s, changing elevation and unmatched scenery. The two hundred and thirteen mile route will take you towering above the ocean’s edge as you cross through several of California best towns and small cities.
You will start the trip just outside of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito. The town is known for two world renowned attractions – the Bay Model education center that is controlled by the U.S. Army and the Bay Area Discovery Museum. While in this area you can hop on a segway tour of the city or take off into the ocean for whale watching or snorkeling. More importantly it is a must to stop into Godspeed in Oakland. What is Godspeed? It is a one of a kind Motorcycle Speed Parlour. Literally a one stop shop that covers anything and everything that has to do with motorcycle living. To start they feature free service inspections and brand specific technicians to help make sure you bike is I perfect running shape. Next up, they offer motorcycle tuning and an on-site tattoo parlor with some of the best artists in the state. Finally, while you wait for one of the handcrafted sandwiches from their café you can check out their gear shop that features over two dozen brands. All that excitement before you ever step on the gas!
As you head out on Pacific Coast Highway 1 you will embark on what some riders have called the best route in the United States. The next hundred or so miles will take you through a multitude of twists and turns as well as towering redwood groves as you travel along the beautiful Pacific Ocean. If you choose to break this trip up into two days then the perfect place to stop is in Point Arena. While mostly known for its extravagant lighthouse display and museum, Point Arena is also a short drive from ten wineries in the Anderson Valley area. You can grab a cold one and catch your favorite sports team at Arena Cove Bar and Grill. Overall, Point Arena is a laid back, quiet town where you can enjoy the silence along with miles of ocean views while standing among some of the giant rock formations that make up the coastline.
Continue up the coastline and you will enjoy more varying terrain and classic California scenery. Along the way there is Fetzer Vineyards in Mendocino and North Coast Brewing Company just outside of Fort Bragg, both which offer tastings and tours. If you stop into any of the local pubs or bars along the way you will have the option to enjoy some of California’s finest wines and beers. With over three dozen vineyards and breweries in the state, the local selection is sure to offer a new favorite to you.
When you enter into Leggett you will reach the end of the biking route. This is another small town that offers some serene scenery and local eateries. With two hundred and thirteen miles behind you, you can determine if this is truly one of the best biking roads in America. The next time you are looking for a longer ride that has ample scenery and minimal stops, then turn to Pacific Coast Highway 1 for the answer.
