Iowa? Flat? Think again.
In this episode of Best Motorcycle Roads, we’re busting myths and burning rubber across the Hawkeye State, uncovering 7 hidden gem motorcycle roads you’ve (probably) never ridden. From Mississippi River bluffs to bluffin’ tenderloins, it’s all here—twists, turns, and tasty stops.
This is Part 3 of our 6-part Midwest Hidden Gems series—and Iowa does not disappoint.
What You’ll Ride:
– Marquette to Lamont (via Driftless curves, effigy mounds & a tenderloin the size of a steering wheel)
– Loess Hills Scenic Byway (yes, we said dirt bluffs—you gotta hear this)
– Dragoon Trail Runner (80-mile loop with rail history and BBQ vibes)
– The caves of Maquoketa (seriously scenic + Bluff Lake catfish)
– Iowa City to Marengo via the Amana Colonies (communes, kraut, and crepes)
– Balltown to Bellevue (C9Y = Iowa’s best motorcycle road—period)
– Indianola to Oskaloosa (Red Rock Lake, mile-long bridges, and hot honey pizza)
Where to Eat (and maybe unbutton your pants):
– St. Olaf Tavern – legendary thick-cut tenderloin (4 buns thick, baby)
– Twisted Tail Saloon – Loess Hills biker bar gold
– Jimmy’s BBQ Pit & Copperhead Saloon, Boone – brisket or breakfast? Yes.
– Bluff Lake Catfish Farm – all-you-can-eat fried heaven
– Brau Haus & Ronneburg – Amana’s German family-style power duo
– Breitbach’s in Balltown – Oldest restaurant in Iowa (est. 1852 and still crushin’ it)
– George’s Pizza – hot honey greatness in Pella
– The American Table – a post office turned eatery in Oskaloosa? Yes please.
Toolkit (Affiliate links coming soon!)
Bug Soother – All-natural Iowa-made bug spray. https://amzn.to/40wgGEv
Eco Lips – SPF lip balm from the lip balm capital of Iowa. Eco Lips
Jerky – The official glovebox snack of freedom. https://amzn.to/44NpAA3
Bohn Body Armor – We wear it. We love it. We sweat less in it. https://www.bohnarmor.com/
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