A Wyoming That is a Must Ride For Motorcycle Riders

The Rocky Mountains stretch from New Mexico to western Canada for 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometers) and is full of great roads that twist through, over and around the mountains.  Inspiring vistas, expansive valleys, meandering rivers and abundant wildlife can be see along the way.

 

Taylor Park Reservoir in the Sawatch Range in central Colorado

 

I have been blessed to ride many, but by no means all, of the Rocky Mountain roads, some paved and a few not paved.  All have unique traits, charm and of course views.

One in Wyoming that I have greatly enjoyed on two different occasions, once as I lead a group to Yellowstone National Park for six days and again when a friend and I were heading to Glacier NP then on to Alaska.  The  scenic road travels north of Cody, WY to US 212 aka Beartooth Pass (which is also a delightful and breathtaking ride).  So in reality combining the two roads makes for an awesome ride full of views and curves.

Surrounded by the Shoshone National Forest the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway aka WY 296 starts 17 miles north of Cody off WY 120.  Turning west the byway curves left and begins to rise and fall for the next few miles before beginning to ascend up to Dead Indian Summit Overlook at 8,071 feet (2,460 meters).  The overlook is 13 miles from WY 120 and is worthy of a stop to soak in the amazing view of some of the most pristine Wyoming landscape. 

Breathtaking vista from the overlook

  

From the overlook one can see the Absaroka Mountains to the west, to the north the Beartooth Mountain Range and the Clarks Fork River down below.   

Absaroka Mountains

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway winds off Dead Indian Summit Pass

 

Overlook to the left and Dead Indian hill to the far right

 

Heading north from the overlook for 32.5 miles the scenic byway continues to provide smile inducing curves, switchbacks, elevation change and massive views until it intersects with US 212.  Turning left will take you to Cooke City, Montana and a gateway to Yellowstone National Park.  Turning right will lead up Beartooth Pass, pass Top of The World Store and on to Red Lodge, Montana.

If you get up to NE Wyoming or South Central Montana don't miss the opportunity to ride Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and Beartooth Highway (closed in the winter).  You will be glad you did.

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Biker Oz Interview on Motorcycle Men Podcast

 

I became a fan of podcasts in 2019.  I listened to a lot of different styles and various topics with motorcycle related podcasts occupying the largest portion of my listening time. Some hosts his/her show solo while others use a team approach.  Some are 30 minutes or less while others are much longer.

Some podcasts were entertaining, some informative and some educational.  I continue to listen to have kept me interested and engaged.  In 2021 I posted a list of some of my favorite at the time - check it out HERE.  

However, at that time I had not started following Motorcycle Men podcast.  Many are no longer active anymore while others have built a good following, so I may need to post a new list of favorites soon.

Motorcycle Men is a four man team with the host Ted Kettler aka "Wrongway" and co-hosts Tim aka "Buktu", Chris aka "Joker" and Justin aka "Shoes."  The four guys "share with you their exploits of the road, the roads, the people, the destinations and everything that goes along with it." (Motorcycle Men website)

Broadcasting from the "V-Twin Cafe" stories, motorcycle information and laughs are plentiful.  One-on-one interviews with a wide range of people in the motorcycle world are frequent.  The range of topics and personalities has made the Motorcycle Men podcast one of my current top 5.

While listening to a particular interview with a man who rode to Alaska I was struck by how my experience riding to Alaska was quite different.  I emailed the show and mentioned how much I enjoyed my ride to Alaska with some friends.  Ted responded he was interested in my story.  After communicating we scheduled a time to talk.  I also go to share some of my experiences of track marshaling for MotoGP and MotoAmerica.

2024 I gave Joe Roberts a USA flag to carry as he celebrated his 2nd place finish

 

Follow this LINK to listen to any or all of their shows.  I believe you will enjoy them so give them a listen.  You can find the Motorcycle Men Podcast on various podcast platforms.   Check out past episodes and let me know what you think.

  

Follow this link for a big sale - up to 30% off at Dainese - Good until August 31, 2025!

 

 

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

 
 

 

Follow this link for a big sale - up to 30% off at Dainese - Good until August 31, 2025!

 

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 

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Unforgettable Waterfall Experiences in the Blue Ridge Mountains

 

The Smoky Mountains Waterfalls are beautiful

I've had the incredible opportunity to uncover a variety of stunning waterfalls while journeying through

 the breathtaking scenery of Western North Carolina. Many of these hidden gems are conveniently 

 located near the highway, making them easily accessible. If you’re a waterfall lover looking for an 

unforgettable day trip, let me share one of my favorite scenic routes that begins and ends 

in Waynesville, NC!

 

Kick off your adventure on US 276, famously known as Pisgah Highway. You’ll find yourself enchanted

by the twisting roads as you head east. After enjoying the drive, take a turn onto US 64 west, where

you’ll pass through the charming town of Brevard on your way to Highlands. Keep going west on US

64, and you’ll glide through Franklin, eventually connecting with US 23 north to join US 74 East. This

route winds just north of Dillsboro before bringing you back to Waynesville.

Waynesville Waterfall Loop has plenty of fun curves also!

 

As you navigate along US 276, don't miss the chance to stop at some of the region's most mesmerizing

waterfalls. Must-see spots include the iconic Looking Glass Falls, the easily accessible Moore Cove 

Falls (just a 1.5-mile round-trip hike), Upper Log Hollow Falls (a 2.6-mile trek), Barnett Branch Falls (a 

brief 0.7-mile hike), and the exhilarating Sliding Rock Falls. Each waterfall promises a visual delight, 

and the drive itself is filled with scenic twists and turns that make for an exhilarating trip.

The route has twists and turns as well as beautiful scenery

For a unique adventure, make sure to visit Sliding Rock Falls, located just 28 miles southeast of 

Waynesville and 19 miles north of Brevard along US 276. This favored spot is managed by the 

National Forest Service and requires a $5 entry fee per person. Lifeguards are available from 9 AM to 6 

PM during the peak season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a safe experience for 

everyone.

The natural slide is fun, refreshing and produces many smiles

What truly makes Sliding Rock Falls stand out is its thrilling opportunity to cool off on a hot southern 

summer day. With a natural 60-foot water slide leading into a refreshing 7-foot deep pool, it’s a fun way 

to beat the heat. The current is just right, guiding you down into the inviting coolness below. While the 

water can be brisk, it’s incredibly refreshing, especially in warm weather. The surrounding landscape 

adds to the ambiance, filled with laughter from fellow adventurers eager to take the plunge.

Sliding Rock Falls is surrounded by old growth trees

 

A visit to Sliding Rock Falls is absolutely worth the trek and small fee—just be prepared for an 

exhilarating splash when you slide in!

A walking path leads behind Dry Falls

As you continue your journey towards Highlands, NC, be sure to take in the sights of Sequoyah Falls 

and Bridal Veil Falls along US 64, just a short distance of less than three miles. More waterfalls await, 

including Dry Falls, Quarry Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. One of the most unique experiences is being able 

to park and walk behind Bridal Veil Falls, a thrill not offered at many other spots!

Bridal Veils Fall pullout allows for a unique perspective

 

Each town on this delightful 135-mile loop has its own charm, featuring inviting shops and cozy “mom 

and pop” restaurants renowned for their delicious meals. This route is a treasure trove of winding 

roads, extraordinary landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and outstanding hiking trails, all just waiting to 

be discovered!

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.  You may comment below.

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A Great Ride Deserves a Great Meal: CO 165 and Max’s Place

 

Heading west on CO 165 from I25 - the view is awesome

 

After a satisfying ride, a hearty meal seems almost essential, and when you're riding through Colorado, you're never short on breathtaking roads. With their twists, turns, hills, and stunning landscapes, the state offers some of the best routes for motorcyclists. While finding a great road is relatively easy, discovering a local eatery that serves up fantastic food can be more of a challenge. But when you do find that perfect spot, it’s definitely worth sharing.

Max's has plenty of parking and outdoor seating with a view

 

One such place is the 36-mile stretch of Colorado 165, which runs from Colorado 96 near North Hardscrabble Creek to I-25 in Colorado City. This stretch of CO 165 is a true joy to ride, featuring a mix of sweeping curves, tight bends, and changing elevations.

CO 165 is a fun and scenic road

Co 165 also will lead you pass Bishop’s Castle—an intriguing stop that’s well worth a visit. And after enjoying the ride, be sure to end or start your journey at Max’s, located in Colorado City.

Bishop's Castle is a fun and interesting stop along the way

Max’s sits on the north side of the road as you head east into Colorado City, with plenty of parking available. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options. If you opt for the outdoor area, you’ll enjoy a lovely southwest-facing view of the mountains.

The service at Max’s Place is quick, friendly, and filled with that classic country hospitality. Although the menu highlights breakfast, burgers, and dairy treats, I couldn’t resist trying the Green Chili—a dish that’s hard to come by in Texas.

The green chili is tasty and satisfying

The bowl of Green Chili arrived hot (but not too spicy), topped with shredded cheddar and accompanied by a soft flour tortilla. The first spoonful was a revelation—no need to add anything. The blend of ground meat, beans, spices, tomatoes, and green chilies created a rich, flavorful dish with just the right amount of heat.

The tortilla complemented the chili perfectly. Savoring each bite while taking in the view made for a memorable lunch. And to finish the meal, I couldn’t resist the fresh-baked blueberry pie à la mode.

The pie was served warm, with a generous scoop of soft-serve ice cream on top. The flaky crust and rich blueberry filling made it a standout—one of those rare pies that could stand on its own, even without the ice cream.

Blueberry pie and ice cream was a perfect end to the meal

What really made the meal special, however, was the value. The old-fashioned service and cooking were matched by equally old-fashioned prices. It’s hard to find this level of qualityfor the same price.  It was a great value.

So, if you’re ever riding through the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, make sure to check out Colorado 165, and don’t miss a stop at Max’s in Colorado City.

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.  You may comment below.

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Epic views from National Scenic Byway - Beartooth Highway

View from Beartooth Highway

 

 

I love mountain air and the amazing vistas.  I enjoy looking out in all directions and seeing miles of valleys, mountains, lakes, and wilderness. Some mountain passes are breathtaking.   I take a lot of photos even though the photos never capture the awesome beauty.

On my trip to Yellowstone and again on my trip to Alaska I made plans to ride US 212 a.ka. the Beartooth Highway that connects Montana and Wyoming by way of Beartooth Pass.  The Beartooth Highway is designated an "All-American Road" which means the US Department of Transportation deems the road worthy of being a tourist destination unto itself, due to the scenic uniqueness.  Of the 150 National Scenic Byways there are only 37 roads with the distinguished All-American Road designation and this one is well deserving. 

Top of the pass in late June - no snow or ice on the roads luckily

 

The  Beartooth Highway runs 67 miles from Red Lodge, MT to Silver Gate, MT (northeast gateway to Yellowstone NP) crossing the MT/WY state line twice.  The 38 miles stretch between WY 296/ Chief Joseph Highway (another great road) and a point about 12 miles west of Red Lodge, MT is the most scenic, invigorating, and challenging portion of the road.  The road has breathtaking vistas, hairpin curves, elevation changes, sweeping curves and wildlife.

The Beartooth Highway twisting up the mountain

 

The road reaches an elevation of 10,947 ft. at Beartooth Pass.  Cliff hugging switchbacks, tight curves, steep grades, and mountain plateaus make for an amazing stretch of pavement.  The high elevation makes drastic weather changes a constant possibility so riders should be prepared.  When we rode up on July 15 the temperature dropped about 25 degrees from the Beartooth Highway/Chief Joseph Highway intersection to the pass and state line.  We had to stop and bundle up before we got too high.  Glad we did since it was cold and windy at the pass.

Heading towards the pass

 

At the pass and at the MT/WY state line we enjoyed the vast scenery.  It was amazing.  The mountain lakes were deep blue, the peaks were still snow capped, the meadows were alive and green, and the vibrant tundra stretched out around us.  Both sides of the pass are fantastic and challenging. 

 Twin Lakes 

 

 Beartooth Mountains

 

Forest and stream on west side of the pass

 

There is one store along the route known as the "Top of the World Resort."  You can get fuel, snacks, drinks, t-shirts, and souvenirs.  There is also a nice area with picnic tables to sit and enjoy the surroundings.  The staff was very friendly and informative.  We enjoyed a nice break on top of the world.  If one was so inclined the resort has lodging available.

Top of the World store - a great place stop

 

 

The road offers great views and fun curves

 

We hit the pass around noon so the chance to see much wildlife was not good.  We were too late (or too early depending on how you want to look at it).   We did see some bison not too far from the road as we were heading to Cooke City, WY.

Bison roaming near the road - watch out!

 

The Beartooth Highway is a great All-American Road and is well worth the ride.  The beauty and the fun is intense.  If you get to that area of this great country make sure to include US 212.  You will not be disappointed.

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.  You may comment below.

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