Best fall road trips to take on a motorcycle

Autumn in Arizona brings the beauty of color-changing leaves and a relief from summer heat. It’s one of the most pleasant times to explore the outdoors, especially on a motorcycle.

Take advantage of the gorgeous scenery and moderate temperatures by hopping on your bike and enjoying these road trips. But before you hit the road this fall it’s important to know the facts about motorcycle safety, because the reality is motorcycle accidents happen every day in Arizona.  “Here at Sweet James, we have helped victims of motorcycle accidents recover millions of dollars in Arizona, and many accidents happen because basic safety is disregarded” said accident attorney James Bergener of Sweet James

To the Grand Canyon and back

For a nice day trip, head 81 miles north of Flagstaff on Highways 180 and 64 to ride through the picturesque country that lends a backdrop to the Grand Canyon. Highway 180 will take you past the San Francisco peaks, including Mount Humphreys — at 12,633 feet in elevation, it’s the highest peak in Arizona.

These winding highways are beautiful in all seasons but are especially stunning as the plentiful aspen trees along the route turn a startling golden yellow in contrast with the forever green of the Ponderosas. As you near the Grand Canyon, you’ll pass volcanic craters and juniper trees. Take a break at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, hike around, and eat some lunch before heading back to Flagstaff.

Mount Lemmon Highway

While less common, fall colors can be found in southern Arizona, as well: Take a short ride into the foothills on the outskirts of Tucson to the Santa Catalina Natural Area, which surrounds much of Mount Lemmon. The Mount Lemmon Highway takes you on a curving route up the mountain for spectacular views of fall colors, the surrounding foothills, and Tucson on the plain below — remember to stop at Windy Point Vista for a photo op.

You’ll notice a variety of hiking and camping opportunities along the way. Take a break at one of the picnic areas near the mountain peak before turning your bike back home.

Sedona to Flagstaff

The highway between Sedona and Flagstaff is a gorgeous scenic byway with foliage you won’t want to miss. Besides the richness of the colors found in the cottonwood groves and tree-covered hills, this trip includes the chance to marvel at the beauty of Sedona’s famous red rocks at Red Rock State Park or stop by the swimming hole at Grasshopper Point.

Another must-see stop en route is the Call of the Canyon trail in the west fork of Oak Creek Canyon. Riding from Sedona to Flagstaff is great whether you want a non-stop trip or want to make stops along the way.

If you have time, you can go past Flagstaff and along Forest Road 516 to end at the Snow Bowl.

Mogollon Rim

While Arizona may be known for its canyons, its other geological features are just as awe-inspiring. For example, the Mogollon Rim, two hours northeast of Phoenix, is the edge of the Colorado Plateau. It boasts incomparable views from a cliff that, in some places, towers 2,000 feet above the valley floor. The scenic drive along the Mogollon Rim is breathtaking in fall when the green of Ponderosa pine woodlands are woven with the gold, red, and orange of leafy trees.

As you venture, out, remember to stay safe by following the speed limit, wearing a helmet, and never driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you’re involved in an accident, Call Sweet James Motorcycle and Auto Accident Attorneys for help. Visit SweetJames.com or call 800-500-5200 for more information and to schedule a free consultation.