Is Route 66 worth doing anymore?

Question

on motorcycle

Wow, great advice from everyone, thanks!

The idea was to take about three-four weeks. First week, go from Los Angeles up the California coast and then eastward over the northern states into Wisconsin. Second week, visit family in WI. Third week, go down to Chicago and begin Route 66. Take extra days as necessary to smell the roses.

But, I like grizzbr's route too.

Wow, great advice from everyone, thanks!

The idea was to take about three-four weeks. First week, go from Los Angeles up the California coast and then eastward over the northern states into Wisconsin. Second week, visit family in WI. Third week, go down to Chicago and begin Route 66. Take extra days as necessary to smell the roses.

But, I like grizzbr's route too.

Answer 1

Over the years, I've been lucky enough to be able to view a good portion of the USA from the back of a motorcycle, and I've got to say that ANY ride you take in the company of good friends is a good ride, and well worth the time and effort.

Rt 66 is an excellent "nostalgia" ride, but not technically challenging for a motorcycle trip. You could do it in a car or a tour bus just as well as on a motorcycle, and get about the same effect.

If you're into curves, then definitely do the Tail of the Dragon or Bear Tooth Pass in MT, or the old White Bird grade in Idaho. Some of my favorites don't even have names on the road maps, but they're out there if you know where to look...

The thing that makes riding a motorcycle in the USA such a great thing is that there's beautiful scenery almost anyplace you care to look... From the ocean shores to the mountains to the wheat fields of the great plains, there's something for everyone, and another adventure just waiting around the next bend.

Oh, BTW... For the guy that wants to do it in a 63 Corvette... That really only works if your name is Todd or Buzz. ;-)

Answer 2

Can't contribute much to the original question, but I would like to add to response.

My wife and I ride the US129, the infamous "Tail of the Dragon" fairly often. It should be on every riders "must do" list. As noted, it's only an 11 mile strip of road, but one that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Also while in the area the 'Cherohala Skyway' is another must do. Many riders including ourselves make a loop out of both roads via local mountain roads and it has to be experienced to be fully understood.

Back in June of last year on our vacation trip we included the Natchez Trace. Started in Nashville, Tn and essentially rode it 'backwards' all the way down to the other end, 455 miles later in Natchez, Ms. Another great ride, but not in the normal since. It's not a curvy mountain road, not by any means. But the road is new and in great shape, it's wide and well marked. The thing that makes the Trace so unique is the scenery and the history of the area.

We were like complete tourist taking nearly three days to complete it! There is so much to see and experience, if that's your thing. We will definitely be doing it again as part of another ride when we have more than a long week-end to be gone.

Answer 3

There are lots of better bike rides than Route 66.

Personally I'd rather do the Natchez Trace (you can start at the house Elvis was born in) and the Dragons Tail (300 turns in 11 miles) on a bike.

Start in Cali, go through Las Vegas, across the desert through Northern Texas to New Orleans, northeast to Tupelo, Natchez Trace to Tenn, stop for the tour at Jack Daniels, then east to the Tenn North Carolina border, ride the Dragons Tail, go to Pigeon Forge to Dollywood, shop at the numerous outlet stores, continue east through the Smokey Mountains and north til you hit 81 (dont use 95 if you can avoid it) by that time you are in Virginia, so go to historic Williamsburg and finish your trip at Virginia Beach.

Answer 4

I have never been to Route 66, but I know there is not very much of it left. But, if u were to ride ur motorcycle out to Route 66 that might be worth it. If u are going to trailer it to Route 66 I would say it probably isn't worth it.

Answer 5

Haven't done Route 66 but have heard others think it's a great trip. I would highly recommend Bear Tooth Hwy. in MT though. Did that from STurgis last year, beautiful. Many switchbacks. Or try any mtn. route through CO, amazing rides! Ride SAfe!

Answer 6

We did it on a hog about 4 years ago with 5 other couples. I had done it in the 60's but this trip was boring. I want to do the Hwy. 1 trip again, that was awesome.
What kinda ride have you got? Where are you starting from?

Answer 7

Yes, I've done it, Chicago to LA. It was worth the trip! You'll need a sense of history to make it fun, and I hope you've got a kindred spirit to ride with. Take your time, too.

Watch out for the donkeys in Oatman, AZ!

The Route 66 diner in Tulsa, OK is worth a stop.

Have fun!

Answer 8

Absolutely, this is in fact one of my dream vacations. I want to drive a 1963 Vette from Chicago to LA via Route 66 for a vacation one year. It is supposed to be very scenic...

Answer 9

i'm a truck driver and yes in my personal opinion it is still worth the travel, there are still many old towns and sites along the way that are worth the trip, i remember one town in particular in texas, there was a little gas station and service garage there from back in the 50's, the place was completely restored, the whole town was really cool, a nostalgic place.

Answer 10

Yes, its a great route to travel. Lots of nostalgia and history. Very recommended.