Touring the USA from San Francisco - Recommended Routes?

[spnorm]

I'm planning a trip to the US in 2009 for my 40th birthday (I like to plan ahead and I need to save up) and want to hire a bike for a couple of weeks, followed by a few days sightseeing in SF.

As the missus will be onthe back and I'll probably hire a full dress tourer to keep her happy, I want to restrict daily mileage to 200-300 miles i.e. plenty of time for photo stops and leisurely lunches.

Can anyone recommend any good routes, nice towns for overnight stops and great sights which would form a loop from SF?

I love mountains and spectacular scenery, but aren't too keen on long straight roads and excessive temperatures.

Any suggestions would be gratefully received

[Falcon2000]

This was passed along to me yesterday and it may have some sections that you could use on your journey. Good luck.



http://jamminwithjay.blogspot.com/2006_ ... chive.html

[srfrag]

Check out Pashnit.com for some great routes.

After leaving S.F. and crossing the Golden Gate you can pick up Hwy 1 which will give you some fantastic views of the bridge, through the redwoods of Marin county and out along the coast. A great place to pause is Bolinas - one of the last true hippy retreats.

I used to live in Sonoma County, Petaluma so I know the area pretty well. Don't forget you will be in the California wine country.

[SOCAL]

Evan if you don't want to gamble Your wife wil love the shopping and dinning. Also for Cali. try this site

http://www.pashnit.com/motoroads.htm#SBDR

Cheers

[Robert]

Check out the Destination Highways books, (http://www.destinationhighways.com). This is a great guide to wonderful back roads in Northern California, Washington and BC, Canada. Nothing in Oregon for some reason but you'll enjoy the books and get lots of great ideas. Our BMW club is planning a 2 week trip in September 2008, check out some our past newsletters at, (http://www.bmwcosc.com), and I'm using the books extensively.

Well worth a look if you going to tour the Pacific Northwest.

Ride Safe,