Biking The North Star State: Our Top Minnesota Motorcycle Rides

Motorcycle Rides in The North Star State, Minnesota

The next time you’re in the northern Midwest, don’t miss any of these top Minnesota motorcycle rides. The state offers stretches of historic highway motorcycle routes through charming towns and beautiful scenery on scenic byways, along the edge of Lake Superior, and through dense forests.

The Shooting Star Scenic Byway

Stretching between Nicolville and US Hwy 63 just north of the Iowa border is the Shooting Star Scenic Byway on MN-56. This 30-mile wildflower route takes you through several small towns.

The area offers views of historic buildings, lakes, rivers, and native wildflowers and grasses. You can stop at Lake Louise State Park to stretch your legs and enjoy hiking trails around the lake before getting back on the road.

Red Wing to La Crescent

Starting in Red Wing, follow the Mississippi River southeast to La Crescent on this 88-mile route. From Red Wing, you’ll take US-61S through Wabash, past Kellogg, through Minneiska, Goodview, and Winona, and finally arrive in La Crescent.

The route will take you past or through several natural overlooks and parks, including the Wabasha Overlook, John A. Latsch State Park, Lake Winona, Great River Bluffs State Park, and more. Stop and visit one of several hiking trails or camping grounds if you really want to explore. Birdwatchers and photographers will appreciate the opportunity to see Minnesota’s wildlife and natural habitats.

Highway 61

Among the very top Minnesota motorcycle rides, this 145-mile stretch of MN-61 from Grand Portage to Duluth offers stunning views of Lake Superior along the lake’s northern edge as one of the top Minnesota motorcycle rides. Driving straight through will take nearly 3.5 hours, but the route offers several places to stop for hiking, photos, and dining.

Don’t miss the Temperance River State Park or the Tettegouche State Park for hiking, waterfalls, rock formations, forests, and wildlife. Stop by the Split Rock Lighthouse for a tour of the keeper’s home and the lighthouse facilities by tour guides in period dress.

Ride through charming towns like Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais, where you can see inlet living and enjoy fresh-caught seafood, locally brewed beer, and other local favorites.

Lake Minnetonka Shoreline Loop

Get off Route 12 at Wayzata and take Shoreline Drive to Mound. Turn right onto Commerce Boulevard (County Rd 110). Make a right onto Branch Road, then another right on North Shore Drive. Turn right onto Shadywood Road to head back to Shoreline Drive and Wayzata.

This quick loop around Lake Minnetonka is only about 20 miles, but the area offers several continuing roads to extend your ride throughout the different arms, branches, and bays around the lake. You’ll also find several parks, perfect for bringing a four-legged riding buddy along.

You’ll have no trouble finding dining options, ranging from Culver’s and Dairy Queen to Dakota Junction and Back Channel Brewing Company.

Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway

This 88-mile route from La Crescent to Dexter follows MN-16 W past rolling hills of forests, bluffs, small towns, and several state parks. You may even encounter an Amish buggy along TH 52 in Fillmore County, where the speed limit is only 55 mph.

Plan a camping trip or stay in a historic bed and breakfast along the route, if you want a sightseeing ride, or drive straight through with a stop for lunch in Lanesboro at Sylvan Brewing, Clara’s Eatery, or Pedal Pusher’s Café.

Never Ride Alone When You Ride with Law Tigers in Minnesota

Be sure to plan a trip on one of these top Minnesota motorcycle rides, and never leave home without your free Rider Benefit Kit from us at Law Tigers. We’re attorneys who ride and represent riders. Call us today at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation.