CA AZ NM CO UT Southwest 2022
2021-10-27Overview
California: California is older than she looks. It took millennia of tectonic activity to form the coastal promontories and snow-laden peaks. However, largely thanks to John Muir’s timely clout, California’s parks still astonish all who lay eyes on her.
Arizona: Think classic road trips and crowd-pulling must-sees: Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, and Cathedral Rock, to name a few. You’ll relish clocking up miles under big bluebird skies as much as pausing for the showstoppers along the way.
Colorado: Colorado is as dramatic in its diversity as it is in its magnificent splendor, from all things natural to cultural arts. The Rocky Mountain state boasts the highest concentration of peaks above 14,000 feet. Colorado Plateau and southern Colorado bring harmonizing energy to the desert lands.
Utah: From red-rock mesas to narrow slot canyons, pristine slopes, and slick rock trails, Utah’s varied terrain will astound you. Cliffs and sandstone desert define southern Utah, while the overarching peaks and pine-forested Wasatch Mountains govern in the north.
Roads and Biking
Practically every ride in Arizona peels back a little more of the state’s soul. For a shot of the Old West spirit, follow Rt 66 into Prescott; to grasp the veritable will of Arizona’s mining barons, lean into the twisties through Jerome.
Colorado’s infinite biking trails climb above the treeline to wildflower-strewn meadows, while an abundance of scenic rides wind their way up hairpin bends to cross the Continental Divide. When the volume of road users gets too much, head up old forest service roads.
Utah is perhaps my all-time favorite state for off-road motorcycling. More than 65% of state lands are public, with 14 national parks and monuments with bike-tastic access.
Resources
Backcountry Discovery Routes, www.ridebdr.com
Horizons Unlimited Travel Guide
www.horizonsunlimited.com
iOverlander, www.ioverlander.com
Visit California, www.visitcalifornia.com
Visit Arizona, www.visitarizona.com
Colorado Tourism, www.colorado.com
Visit Utah, www.visitutah.com
