Local Attractions & Dealership Information : 2025 Motor Maids Convention

Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes offers many moto-friendly roads in the surrounding area, spectacular views, and some delicious local restaurants. Explore the Old Town and the waterfront or visit the Farmers Market. There are also several “third wave” coffee shops using locally roasted beans and locally baked pastries. Every September, Anacortes hosts the annual Oyster Run Rally, attended by motorcyclists from all over. Anacortes is located north of Seattle and offers many activities for a variety of interests.

Once you’ve explored Anacortes, head to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal and take a trip to San Juan Island. No reservations needed for motorcycles. You’re typically first on-first off. All tickets from Anacortes are round-trip, so you won’t pay to come East, even if you stop off at other islands on your way. Friday Harbor is a unique little town offering a lot of touristy shops and eateries. Explore the island and all the twisty roads, book a massage at Roche Harbor Resort. Visit the sculpture garden, or take hikes on the many beaches. San Juan Island boasts two lighthouses, eagles galore, a photo-tolerant fox population, and, if you’re lucky, you’ll see a pod of Orca whales breaching in the waters of the strait. You can also see Vancouver Island on the West side, so take a moment to wave at our Motor Maid who lives there!

On your way back, plan to spend a day on Orcas Island. No charge for eastbound ferries. Lots of twisty roads, and Mount Constitution State Park. At the top you’ll find a Depression-Era work project: a stone tower built entirely by hand, right down to the wrought iron hinges and hand railings. Its design always reminds me of a Scottish border tower. Take the stairs to the top for a beautiful view of the Strait of Juan De Fuca. There are lots of local eateries to fill your belly. You could also stop off at Shaw or Lopez islands for more rural settings.

Once back in Anacortes, take an immediate right out of the ferry terminal and take Marine View Drive through the residential area, then turn right again for Rosario Road and head to Deception Pass State Park and Whidby Island. You’ll pass over Deception Pass Bridge, the most photographed bridge in Washington. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a few of your own photos. Whidby Island has its own flavor, more twisty roads, several towns, and lots of great places to eat. You can choose several routes back—the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry to north of Seattle, or continue south on the island and catch the Coupeville-Port Townsend ferry and explore the peninsula.

LoLo Pass, between Lolo, MT and Lewiston, ID covers just over 200 miles steeped in history. Now part of US Hwy 12, LoLo Pass was famously traveled by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805 during their quest to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean. Today, you can explore history and retrace the steps of these explorers.

For a motorcyclist, LoLo Pass offers breathtaking views that make it a bucket-list experience. In the heart of the Bitterroot Range of the Rocky Mountains, LoLo Pass is the natural border between Idaho and Montana. You will find yourself navigating winding curves that will delight both novice and experienced riders.

Climbing to an elevation of 5,233 feet, LoLo Pass is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. You are likely to a catch glimpse of deer or elk – at times you may see them swimming in the Lochsa River. (If the BC/WA/OR/ID Motor Maids are around, you may just find a few of us swimming in the river, too!)

While LoLo Pass is known for well-maintained conditions, be sure to check conditions before you start. It can be a long way to turn around. When you get to LoLo, MT - the hot springs are ah-mazing!!!

Oh, and by the way, you will definitely want to start on the pass with a full tank of gas!

The Sea to Sky Highway, officially known as British Columbia Highway 99, offers one of the most picturesque drives in Canada. Stretching from Vancouver to Whistler, the highway is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) long. Driving along the Sea to Sky Highway is a must see for a motorcyclist.

After leaving Vancouver, you will come to Horseshoe Bay, a charming seaside village with a network of fjords surrounded by towering mountains. If you have time, take a ferry to nearby islands to enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

A short drive north from Horseshoe Bay brings you to Shannon Falls Provincial Park featuring Shannon Falls, one of BC’s tallest waterfalls, cascading 335 meters (1,099 feet). Continuing along the highway, the Tantalus Range comes into view. These rugged peaks, often snow-capped, offer awe-inspiring vistas that are perfect for photography.
Finally, the journey culminates in Whistler, a world-renowned resort town that transforms in the summer months into a haven for mountain biking, golfing, and hiking.

While the highway is well-maintained, it's wise to check road conditions and weather forecasts before your ride. Layers are definitely recommended!

Take Your Time! While the ride can be completed in a few hours, give yourself a chance to explore. The Sea to Sky Highway is more than just a road; it's a gateway to the natural wonders of British Columbia that define this corner of Canada.

Leavenworth is a picturesque Bavarian-themed village nestled in the Cascade Mountains, known for its distinct alpine architecture and vibrant cultural events. The city brilliantly emulates a Bavarian village, complete with charming storefronts, German cuisine, and traditional festivals such as Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, unique shops, and outdoor activities like hiking and rafting in the nearby mountains or Wenatchee River.

Why It's Unique and Fun: Leavenworth offers a delightful fusion of scenic beauty and cultural immersion, making it an enticing destination year-round. The Bavarian-inspired environment creates a unique travel experience in the Pacific Northwest, enhanced by the warm hospitality and festive atmosphere.

Winthrop is a small town in the Methow Valley known for its Wild West-themed appearance, complete with wooden boardwalks and historic facades. This charming town serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, with world-class cross-country skiing in winter, and hiking, biking, and horseback riding during warmer months. Winthrop hosts various events, like the Winthrop Rhythm and Blues Festival, offering entertainment options for visitors.

Why It's Unique and Fun: The Old West ambiance combined with the stunning natural surroundings makes Winthrop a distinctive destination. The town’s dedication to preserving its history, along with its vibrant arts and outdoor scene, offers a memorable experience for all ages.

Did you know that camels and rhinoceroses once roamed the High Desert of Oregon? It is a place of stark contrasts with its rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The High Desert boasts some of the most striking geological features in Oregon including the Alvord Desert, a vast salt flat. Nearby, the Steens Mountain rises dramatically from the desert floor, providing breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails. The Painted Hills, with their vibrant hues, highlight the region’s rich geological history, while the Owyhee Canyonlands offer rugged beauty and adventurous exploration.

Nestled in the eastern part of Oregon, the High Desert is a region with its own unique beauty. With less than 12 inches of rain annually, this area offers a fascinating contrast to the lush greenery of western Oregon and Washington. Summers in the High Desert are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often soaring above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument displays fossils that tell the story of ancient ecosystems from millions of years ago. The museum features exhibits that highlight the rich paleontological discoveries and the vibrant history of the area. Beyond the museum, the surrounding area provides stunning vistas, wildlife, and a wealth of cultural artifacts, including petroglyphs and ancient dwellings.