Hosting a marijuana-friendly motorcycle poker run is about more than cards and checkpoints—it’s about crafting an unforgettable ride. In states where cannabis is legal, organizers have the freedom to design routes that blend sweeping scenery, iconic roadways, and rider-friendly stopovers, all while emphasizing safety, compliance, and community. Below is a tour of popular, scenic poker run routes across cannabis-legal states that consistently deliver memorable experiences for riders.
California: Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
California’s Pacific Coast Highway remains a gold standard for scenic poker runs. Riders roll past cliffside views, crashing surf, and coastal towns that naturally lend themselves to staggered checkpoints. From Malibu to Big Sur, the road offers ample pull-offs for group photos and designated rest stops. Event hosts often pair the route with coastal campgrounds or private venues to keep consumption compliant and off public roads.
Colorado: Million Dollar Highway (US-550)
For high-altitude drama, Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway delivers. The stretch between Ouray, Silverton, and Durango offers alpine vistas, tight switchbacks, and historic mining towns—ideal for themed checkpoints and local partnerships. With cannabis legal statewide, organizers focus on timing, weather awareness, and rider skill levels to ensure a safe, rewarding run through the San Juan Mountains.
Oregon: Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Oregon’s coastal routes combine rugged shoreline, dense forests, and laid-back beach towns. Poker runs often weave between small harbors and scenic overlooks, making it easy to create relaxed, well-spaced stops. Oregon’s cannabis culture emphasizes responsibility, and successful events highlight sober riding, private consumption areas, and local hospitality venues for post-ride gatherings.
Washington: North Cascades Highway (SR-20)
Washington’s North Cascades Highway is a favorite for riders who crave dramatic elevation changes and glacier-fed lakes. The route’s wide vistas and national forest backdrops elevate any poker run into a destination ride. Organizers typically plan seasonal events, avoiding peak weather risks while showcasing one of the most visually striking roads in the Pacific Northwest.
Nevada: Valley of Fire and Lake Mead Loops
Nevada offers desert beauty that feels tailor-made for motorcycle events. Routes looping through Valley of Fire State Park and along Lake Mead feature red rock formations, open highways, and expansive skies. These runs work well for winter and shoulder-season events, with checkpoints positioned at scenic overlooks and private venues near Las Vegas or Boulder City.
Arizona: Apache Trail (SR-88)
In Arizona, the Apache Trail delivers desert canyons, winding roads, and Old West charm. While portions require careful planning due to road conditions, the payoff is a visually rich experience that riders remember long after the final card is drawn. Cannabis-friendly events here emphasize clear route briefings and well-marked stops.
Why These Routes Work
Successful scenic poker runs balance legality, safety, and storytelling. These routes shine because they offer natural pacing, diverse scenery, and nearby communities accustomed to hosting motorcycle tourism. When paired with clear rules, responsible consumption messaging, and rider-focused planning, they transform a simple poker run into a true destination event.
Learn More: From Backroads to Benefit Rides: The Story of the Motorcycle Poker Run