You ever ride somewhere with zero expectations and end up thinking, “Why the hell isn’t this place more famous?” That’s Indiana. Yeah, the state gets overlooked a lot—blame the flat interstates or all those corn jokes—but I swear, once you get off the main roads and into the countryside, this place hits different.

Whether you’re into twisty backroads, riverside cruising, or little towns with killer pie, Indiana has something for you (and your bike). I’ve ridden a lot of states, and I keep coming back here for one reason: it’s real. Quiet routes. Honest people. Scenic spots that sneak up on you.

So, if you’re planning a ride, weekend loop, or even a full-blown moto-cation, this list’s got your back. I’ll break it all down—routes, where to stop, where to eat, and a bunch of stuff no one tells you until it’s too late. Let’s ride.

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1. Ohio River Scenic Byway: A Top Motorcycle Destination in Indiana

If someone told me to pick one road in Indiana to ride forever, I’d honestly consider this one. The Ohio River Scenic Byway hugs the southern border of the state, and it’s like someone designed it with bikers in mind. Wide curves, river views, cute little towns—it’s peaceful without being boring.

Start in Newburgh, where you’ll get coffee and riverfront chill vibes. The whole stretch down through Cannelton, Leavenworth, and into Madison just rolls smooth. You’ve got hills on one side and river on the other—and it doesn’t matter which way you ride it, the views always deliver.

Pro Tips:

• Ride on weekdays. Weekends can bring traffic.

• Fall? Holy crap, yes. Trees explode in color and the river reflects it all.

• Watch for deer. They love the scenic life too, apparently.

👉 Google Maps – Ohio River Scenic Byway

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2. Brown County State Park: Scenic Ride at a Premier Motorcycle Destination in Indiana

Ask any Indiana rider what their favorite stretch is, and Brown County State Park will come up. Every. Single. Time. They call it the “Little Smokies” for a reason—it’s like someone shrunk the Appalachians and dropped them in the Midwest.

You’ll want to start in Nashville (no, not that Nashville). It’s this artsy, rustic town that smells like fudge and campfire. Then head into the park. The road through it—especially Hesitation Point—just blows your mind. Winding hills, dense forests, that kind of slow-down-and-feel-it ride.

If you can time your ride in mid-October, do it. Just trust me.

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Highlights:

• Elevation changes (rare in Indiana, so soak it in)

• Great photo ops—seriously, bring a camera

• Cafés in Nashville are biker-friendly, and nobody judges your helmet hair

👉 Google Maps – Brown County State Park

Explore park maps and visitor info at IN State Parks – Brown County

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3. Indiana 135: Twisty Route Among the Best Motorcycle Roads in Indiana

Look, if you like roads that twist like a pretzel and run through some of the prettiest hidden parts of the state, SR135 is your ride. It runs north–south and threads together towns like Bean Blossom, Story, and Salem. No big cities. No stoplights. Just curves and calm.

You get a solid mix of wooded backroads, open farmland, and stretches where you can open up the throttle (safely, of course). There’s this moment, heading south past Story Inn, where the trees break just right—and it’ll make you forget to blink.

Why ride it:

• Minimal traffic (outside of leaf season)

• Connects easily with Brown County, so loop it up

• Makes you feel like a pro rider, even if you’re still figuring things out

👉 Google Maps – Indiana 135 Motorcycle Route

Check route updates and road conditions via IN DOT

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4. Covered Bridge Loop: A Historic and Relaxing Motorcycle Destination in Indiana

This one’s less about speed, more about soul. The Covered Bridge Loop runs through Parke County, home to more covered bridges than you thought still existed. It’s like riding through a postcard—except with bugs in your teeth and the smell of fresh-cut hay in your nose.

You’ll cruise through towns like Rockville, Bridgeton, and Mecca. The bridges are the stars, obviously—but the barns, creeks, and old diners make this a whole vibe. Bonus: there’s a Covered Bridge Festival in October. It’s packed, but worth it.

What I love:

• Chill ride, no stress, no crazy curves

• Small towns with even smaller pies (in the best way)

• Feels like a step back in time—but with better brakes

👉 Google Maps – Parke County Covered Bridge Route

View a printable map of bridges at Covered Bridge Festival

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5. Madison to Clifty Falls: Forest Views at This Scenic Motorcycle Destination in Indiana

This one’s short, but it slaps. The stretch from Madison to Clifty Falls State Park is one of those scenic little runs where the trees hang low, the air feels cooler, and the road winds just enough to keep your hands on alert.

Start in downtown Madison—grab breakfast if you can, it’s got that old-river-town charm—then cruise up toward the park. Inside, the road tightens up and you’ll pass some lookout points that’ll make you stop mid-sentence. There’s a waterfall, a few trails, and a lot of shaded picnic spots if you’re into that.

Heads up:

• It gets foggy in the mornings—adds to the mood, just ride smart

• Great ride in spring after rain (more waterfall, less dust)

• Don’t be surprised if you want to ride it twice

👉 Google Maps – Madison to Clifty Falls

Recommended Outbound Link:
Visit IN DNR – Clifty Falls

6. Route 66: Southern Indiana’s Hidden Motorcycle Destination

Yeah, people hear “Route 66” and think of the one with neon signs and retro diners. But Indiana’s own State Road 66 is its own beast—and trust me, it’s worth every mile.

It hugs the Ohio River from Tell City to Newburgh, winding through trees, cliffs, and tiny towns you’ve never heard of (but will 100% want to stop in). You’ve got wide, smooth pavement, little elevation surprises, and zero big-city vibes. This is one of those peaceful-but-fun routes that just flows.

Riding it at sunrise? Pure magic. You’ve got the river to your left, morning mist on the water, and golden light hitting the trees like something out of a painting.

Why this ride hits:

• Quiet. Like, eerie quiet. But in a good way.

• Lots of pull-off spots if you’re into photo ops

• Great connector for a full southern Indiana loop

👉 Google Maps – Indiana Route 66

Find trip ideas and town stops via Southern Indiana Tourism

7. Corydon Loop: Ride Through History at a Motorcycle Destination in Indiana

Corydon isn’t just Indiana’s first state capital—it’s also surrounded by some seriously rideable roads. The Corydon Loop isn’t a defined road on any map, but every rider around here knows it. You start in town, then loop around through forested hills, farmland, and sleepy stretches where you can just zone out and roll.

The history nerd in me digs the Constitution Elm and the old battlefield nearby—but honestly, it’s the rhythm of the ride that sticks. There’s a perfect mix of curves and straightaways, so it’s great if you’re riding with folks of mixed skill levels.

Plus, there’s no shortage of roadside food. Corydon’s diners serve legit breakfasts with coffee that’ll keep you going for hours.

What you’ll get:

• Rolling hills and valley views

• Cool historic stuff—without needing to park your bike too long

• One of the best weekend loops in the state

👉 Google Maps – Corydon Motorcycle Loop

Learn more about Corydon at Indiana Historical Bureau

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8. French Lick Scenic Route

French Lick might be best known for its resort and casino, but the ride to and around it is top-tier. It’s one of the quieter motorcycle destinations in Indiana and offers forested curves, limestone cliffs, and plenty of long straightaways to cruise.

The roads are well-kept, and traffic is usually light. Pair the ride with an overnight stay for the perfect weekend trip.

👉 Google Maps – French Lick Route

Recommended Outbound Link:
Book activities and lodging at Visit French Lick West Baden

Nearby attractions include Patoka Lake, Hoosier National Forest, and several old-school diners where the pie is a must-try.

9. Salt Creek Lick Road: Short, Sweet, and Smooth

Salt Creek Lick Road is that underrated little ride you do between bigger trips—and then can’t stop thinking about. It’s about 17 miles between Nineveh and Nashville, and while it’s not packed with tourist stops or drama, the ride itself is so dang smooth, you’ll want to double back.

It snakes past Sweetwater Lake, with gentle curves and barely any traffic. The pavement’s usually in good shape (though check for those sneaky Indiana cracks). Not much to see unless you love farms, forests, and maybe a deer or two. But sometimes? That’s exactly what you need.

It ends just shy of Brown County State Park, so it’s a great add-on to your weekend ride.

Best part?

• It’s the calm before (or after) the main event

• Great road to practice curves without pressure

• Good for solo rides where you just want to think (or not think)

10. Indiana SR450: It’s Winding, It’s Quiet, and It’s Yours

Alright, let’s talk about SR450—one of Indiana’s best-kept moto secrets. This state road runs between Bedford and Shoals, kind of tucked between nothing and nowhere—but in the best possible way.

The ride follows along the East Fork of the White River, with some amazing scenery that sneaks up on you. You’ve got trees leaning over the road like they’re trying to high-five you, rock outcroppings, and turns that feel just right.

There’s also a stop worth making: Jug Rock near Shoals. Weird name, cooler rock. It’s this random geological thing that makes you say, “Huh, okay. Neat.”

Here’s what makes it shine:

• Quiet roads, barely any cars

• A couple elevation dips that’ll surprise you

• Connects with Hoosier National Forest—more rides await

Google Map-Indiana SR450

11. West Central Indiana: Highway 234 & Sugar Creek Canyon

This one’s for the riders who want it all—twisties, water views, and secret saloons. Start in North Salem and ride the loop that takes you along Highway 234, past Sugar Creek, and through some of the best parkland in the state.

You’ll cruise through Shades State Park, Turkey Run, and Pine Hills Nature Preserve—so yeah, this one’s got nature with a capital N. There’s also the Red Dog Saloon, a local rider hangout that serves up burgers the size of your throttle hand.

Pro move? Bring someone who’s into hikes, and park it for an hour at one of the trailheads. Or just kick back and stare at the creek. No judgment either way.

Why you’ll love it:

• Solid combo of curves and chill

• Scenery that doesn’t get old

• Local gems and elbow-bumping with other bikers

Where to Eat on Your Indiana Motorcycle Road Trip

You can’t ride 200 miles on gas station snacks. Trust me, I’ve tried. Indiana’s motorcycle routes aren’t just about the roads—they’re also about the small-town eats that fuel your soul (and your stomach).

Let’s get real. You don’t want a frozen burger nuked in some microwave behind a gas station. You want a place where the waitress calls you “hon” and the pie looks like it could feed four people (but you eat it all anyway).

Here are some rider-approved spots near the best motorcycle destinations in Indiana:

🍳 Schwartz Family Restaurant (Near Corydon)

Classic country cooking with mashed potatoes that could win awards. The pie? Ridiculous. You’ll unbuckle your belt and still order seconds.
📍 Google Maps – Schwartz’s

🍴 Story Inn (Nashville)

This one’s a little fancier—but still chill. It’s a historic inn with killer brunch, tucked away near Brown County.
📍 Google Maps – Story Inn

🔥 Hodgen’s BBQ (Tell City)

Pulled pork. Brisket. Cornbread. Basically, everything you dream about at a stoplight.

🌄 Overlook Restaurant (Leavenworth)

Right on the river, with a view that punches you in the face (in a good way). The fried chicken is reason enough to stop.
📍 Google Maps – Overlook

Local diners are where it’s at—just follow the bikes parked out front. That’s how you know you’ve found gold.

 

👉 Google Maps – Story Inn

Find more roadside eats at Indiana Foodways Alliance

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 Best Times of Year to Ride in Indiana

Timing a motorcycle trip is like hitting the sweet spot on a curve—get it right, and everything just clicks.

Here’s the truth: Indiana’s a shoulder-season paradise. Spring and fall? Chef’s kiss. Summer can be great too, but the heat and humidity turn your gear into a portable sauna.

💡 When to ride:

• April to June: Green as hell, cool air, blooming everything.

• September to October: Fall colors, crisp mornings, and fewer bugs.

• Avoid July afternoons unless you like swamp sweat.

Also? Watch for roadwork signs—the state loves repaving during peak season. Check IN DOT before heading out.

📍 Check weather forecasts – Indiana

Fall in Brown County is legendary. Ride it once in October and it’ll ruin you for every other season. Sorry, not sorry.

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Timing a motorcycle trip is like hitting the sweet spot on a curve—get it right, and everything just clicks.

Here’s the truth: Indiana’s a shoulder-season paradise. Spring and fall? Chef’s kiss. Summer can be great too, but the heat and humidity turn your gear into a portable sauna.

💡 When to ride:

• April to June: Green as hell, cool air, blooming everything.

• September to October: Fall colors, crisp mornings, and fewer bugs.

• Avoid July afternoons unless you like swamp sweat.

Also? Watch for roadwork signs—the state loves repaving during peak season. Check IN DOT before heading out.

📍 Check weather forecasts – Indiana

Fall in Brown County is legendary. Ride it once in October and it’ll ruin you for every other season. Sorry, not sorry.

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Safety Stuff You Actually Need to Know

Okay, nobody wants to hear a lecture when they’re planning a ride—but hear me out. Indiana’s roads are mostly chill, but there are quirks.

Like what? Well…

• Pavement cracks can sneak up on you, especially in rural spots.

• Deer don’t care how fast you’re going—they’ll pop out anyway.

• Fog and shade near forests like Hoosier National can mess with your visibility.

🛡️ Real Safety Tips:

• Gear up, even if the law doesn’t make you. (Helmet, jacket, gloves—you know the drill.)

• Don’t ride tired. These curves require focus.

• Keep rain gear in your bag. Indiana storms don’t RSVP.

• Stay hydrated, especially on longer summer rides.

• Riding in a group? Stagger formation. Not parade style—this ain’t a homecoming.

And yeah, helmets are only legally required for riders under 18—but come on, protect that beautiful brain of yours.

📍 Check Indiana Motorcycle Laws

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Packing Essentials for Day Trips

You’d be surprised how fast a great ride can go downhill because you forgot something stupid. Ask me how I know.

Packing for Indiana’s best motorcycle roads isn’t about cramming your saddlebags with junk. It’s about bringing what’ll actually matter when you’re 30 miles from anywhere and the sky goes dark.

✅ Must-Haves for Indiana Rides:

• Rain gear (always)

• Layers—temps drop fast in wooded areas

• Offline maps or GPS (cell service disappears in spots)

• Charged power bank

• Snacks + water

• Mini tool kit

• Tire inflator + patch kit

• Small first-aid kit

• Sunscreen + lip balm

Add in a couple bungees and a towel (trust me), and you’re golden.

If you’re riding longer, consider saddlebags or tank bags that don’t suck. Viking Bags, Nelson Rigg, or even a budget Amazon pick can be a game changer.

📍 Shop travel gear at RevZilla

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Final Ride: Indiana, You Weird and Wonderful Road Beast

Let’s wrap this up.

Indiana’s motorcycle routes don’t get the hype of Cali’s PCH or the Tail of the Dragon—but maybe that’s the best part. No crowds. No influencers blocking the road with their selfie sticks. Just open air, rolling fields, river bends, forest shade, and the sound of your engine echoing off the hills.

Whether you’re cruising the Ohio River Scenic Byway, curving through Brown County, or getting lost on SR450, these rides are pure therapy. No lie.

So throw your leg over that seat, fire it up, and hit the road. Indiana’s not flashy, but it’s real—and that makes it unforgettable.

 

FAQs

1. What’s the best fall ride in Indiana for color?
Definitely Brown County State Park or Indiana SR135 in October. It’s like riding through a Bob Ross painting.

2. Are there biker-friendly places to stay?
Yup! Nashville, Corydon, and French Lick have inns, cabins, and campsites that love riders.

3. What about motorcycle laws in Indiana?
Helmets are required only for riders under 18 or on learner’s permits. Still—wear one.

4. Can I ride in Indiana during winter?
Technically, yes. Realistically? No. Salted roads, black ice, and frozen hands aren’t fun.

5. What’s a good short loop from Indy?
Hit IN-135 south toward Bean Blossom or zip to Madison via backroads. Curves, views, and lunch spots all day.

 

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