Mountains + motorcycles = pure bliss.

The only thing better than the wind in your hair, bugs in your teeth, and, give or take, 100-horsepower between your legs? Doing it with some of Colorado's most picturesque landscapes as your backdrop. Those who ride understand that there's nothing quite as therapeutic as a good ride. And if you're in need of a good, long therapy session, here's where you need to go: 

Lookout Mountain Road

For a quick, after-work ride, it's hard to beat taking a quick buzz up Lookout Mountain. Tight curves, scenic views, and a little western history always make for a great ride. Luckily for those who live in Denver, the top of Lookout Mountain is just 30 minutes away. 

Denver to Steamboat, the Long Way

Anyone who has been here long enough knows that the weather changes faster than excrement goes through a goose. That's why if you're going to tackle this mountain-route, it's good to consider getting a very early start, keeping an eye on the weather, ensuring your bike is in tip-top shape, and thinking about staying the night in Steamboat. It's also best to go sometime in late-July through early-September, as the route takes you across Trail Ridge Road – the highest continuous paved road in the US (12,183 feet above sea level).

Often times, there is wind and it can be anywhere from 20 to 30 degrees cooler than in Estes, so dress accordingly. And yes, you'll have to pay the fee to get into Rocky Mountain National Park, but despite all of these things, it's well worth it.

Grand Mesa Scenic Byway

Perhaps we're biased, but if western Colorado isn't some of the prettiest scenery then we don't know what is. The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is the type of place that makes it very, very hard to come home. 

Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is an old mining town turned gambling hub, but we definitely don't go to sit in front of slot machines – we go for the drive. That final stretch, just before you descend into town, has got to be one of the most picturesque views in the world. 

Morrison to Evergreen

This is a classic Colorado ride but it never gets old. Winding its way up to Evergreen, Bear Creek Road is popular among motorcyclists, car enthusiasts, and bicyclists – meaning the police keep a close eye on this route. That's alright, though, because it's still a nice ride full of peg-dragging curves, roadside stops, and crisp mountain air. 

What are your thoughts? Do you have a favorite ride? Let us know in the comments!