There’s something special about the open road when you’re riding through Florida’s Gulf Coast. The salty breeze, the endless horizon, and the sun lighting up the asphalt ahead—it’s the kind of freedom only a motorcycle can deliver. And if you’re riding the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST, you’re not just out for a ride; you’re in for an experience.
Pensacola is a goldmine of scenic routes and weekend getaways, whether you’re looking for coastal views, dense forest backroads, or long-haul rides that push your limits. If you’re looking for the best weekend road trips from Pensacola, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s hit the road.
1. Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway – A Short but Stunning Ride
Some of the best rides don’t have to be long. If you want an easygoing cruise that still delivers jaw-dropping views, the Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway is your go-to. This 11-mile stretch runs along Escambia Bay, offering some of the highest coastal bluffs in Florida. The road is smooth, the curves are gentle, and the scenery is unbeatable.
Why You’ll Love This Ride:
- Quick but rewarding – Perfect for a morning cruise or a sunset ride.
- Epic views – Overlooks Escambia Bay with some of the best scenic stops in the area.
- Stress-free riding – Smooth pavement and light traffic make this an enjoyable, easy ride.
Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a Great Fit:
This route is all about enjoying the ride, and the Sharknose fairing with aerodynamic venting keeps the wind under control while you take in the views. The Rockford Fosgate® Stage II audio lets you play the perfect playlist as you soak in the scenery.
2. Blackwater River State Forest Loop – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
If you’re craving a longer ride that takes you deep into Florida’s wilderness, the Blackwater River State Forest Loop is a must. Covering 50 miles, this route winds through pine forests, rolling hills, and riverside roads, making it one of the most peaceful and scenic rides in the region.
Why You’ll Love This Ride:
- Escape the city – Immerse yourself in Florida’s untouched natural beauty.
- Mix of curves and straightaways – Perfect for riders who enjoy variety in their ride.
- Minimal traffic – It’s a quiet ride where you can truly enjoy the open road.
Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a Great Fit:
The mix of curves and open roads lets you feel the Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output Engine in action. The SHOWA® suspension smooths out any rough patches, while the heated grips make those early morning rides more comfortable.
3. Route 98 – A Gulf Coast Adventure to Crystal River
Looking for a weekend-long road trip? Route 98 takes you from Pensacola to Crystal River, following Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast for nearly 400 miles. This route is all about waterfront views, charming small towns, and legendary seafood stops. You’ll pass through places like Apalachicola, where you can grab some of the best oysters in the state.
Why You’ll Love This Ride:
- Long-distance adventure – Perfect for a full weekend getaway.
- Unmatched Gulf Coast scenery – Ride right along the coastline for most of the trip.
- Food stops galore – Fresh seafood, historic diners, and local hidden gems along the way.
Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a Great Fit:
Long-haul rides require comfort, reliability, and power—and this bike delivers. The 12.3-inch TFT display with Skyline™ OS keeps your navigation and entertainment in check, while the ergonomic solo seat ensures that even after hours on the road, you’ll still be ready for more.
4. Ocala National Forest Loop – A Ride Through Florida’s Wild Side
A few hours east of Pensacola, Ocala National Forest is a perfect weekend escape. This 100-mile loop takes you through thick forests, crystal-clear springs, and wildlife-filled landscapes. If you love twisty roads and remote, scenic riding, this trip belongs on your bucket list.
Why You’ll Love This Ride:
- Winding forest roads – A mix of open highways and shaded backroads.
- Natural beauty – Pass by Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, and Lake George.
- A peaceful escape – Less traffic, more time to focus on the ride.
Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a Great Fit:
The race-inspired forged carbon fiber design keeps the bike light and nimble, making it a joy to handle in twisty sections. Plus, with cornering ABS and traction control, you’ll feel confident on every curve.
5. Scenic Route 13 – A Hidden Gem Along the St. Johns River
For riders looking for a more laid-back, picturesque route, Scenic Route 13 is a lesser-known treasure. Following the St. Johns River, this 38-mile stretch from Fruit Cove to Spuds offers beautiful river views, old Florida charm, and some of the best tree-lined roads in the state.
Why You’ll Love This Ride:
- Relaxing and scenic – A perfect cruise with fewer distractions.
- Historic Florida charm – Ride through small towns and riverfront communities.
- Uninterrupted road time – Light traffic means more focus on the road.
Why the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a Great Fit:
For a smooth, relaxing ride, you need precision steering, wind protection, and an ultra-responsive throttle—all of which the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST delivers effortlessly. And with Screamin’ Eagle® performance upgrades, you’ll get a thrilling ride even at moderate speeds.
We’ve talked about the routes—now let’s talk about why this bike is built for them.
The Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output Engine is a force to be reckoned with, delivering 127 horsepower and 145 ft-lb of torque—making it the most powerful factory-installed engine Harley-Davidson® has ever produced.
With a SHOWA® inverted front fork and remote reservoir shocks, the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST soaks up bumps and keeps the ride stable. Whether you’re leaning into curves or blasting down the highway, the control is next-level.
From the 12.3-inch TFT display to the Rockford Fosgate® Stage II audio system, this bike keeps you connected, entertained, and on course.
If these road trips have you itching to get out and ride, there’s only one thing left to do—experience the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST for yourself.
Visit Pensacola Harley-Davidson® in Pensacola, FL, today and schedule a test ride. See how this bike transforms the road beneath you, hear the rumble of the Milwaukee-Eight® 121, and feel what it’s like to ride the best of the best.
Your next great adventure starts here. Let’s ride.