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Here’s the thing about longboard surfing. It’s dependent on an ever-changing medium along with the ebb and flow of tides, swell, swell direction, and crowds. Plus, you can’t commute to work on a surfboard — unless you’re a professional of course. And while we’re never one to deter anyone from getting their toes wet on a log, there is a more consistent option our there for adrenaline junkies. We’re talking of course, about longboard skateboarding.
It’s here where speed and flow can be attained not only outside of the office hours but while in route to the office as well. Better yet, road conditions remain predictable (weather-dependent of course) allowing you to accurately map out that hairpin turn or steep decline appropriately — mastering the route in the process. We’re also blessed by a myriad of scenery and a relatively low barrier of entry for those looking to switch up their morning commute or afternoon leisurely activities. Best of all, with over 4.12 million miles of roadways here in the U.S., there’s always something new to explore. Don’t get us wrong though, there’s no way we can pare down that much roadway into a list of the eight best. We just found these roads included below to be especially important and versatile in nature. There’s plenty more out there to discover — or keep hidden — we’re just hoping this list will get you started.
Beartooth Highway – MT
Enjoy Yellowstone? Who doesn’t? And with Beartooth Highway, known as a National Scenic Byways All-American Road, enjoy a paradise-inducing 68 miles of various asphalt grades complemented by all the iconic scenery and adrenaline-fueled downhill runs this byway has to offer. The only caveat being that during the winter months, the road closes for obvious reasons. No need to worry, odds are you’ll be snowboarding anyway.
Historic Columbia River Highway – OR
“The King of Roads” as it’s been previously called is nothing to shy away from. Gently hugging the landscape adjacent to Interstate 84 but veering off into more untouched territory thereafter, there’s clearly plenty to see and tight turns to master across this Oregon jewel of a highway. For reference, the byway is sectioned into three zones: Waterfall, River, and High Plateau. We’ll leave it to you, however, to decide which section to conquer first.
Rowena Crest – OR
We’ll be honest, yes, Rowena Crest is part of the Historic Columbia River Highway. However, the sheer beauty of this section of roadway combined with tight turns, empty roadways, and scenic surroundings made it a must-include for this list. What’s not to like? It’s only an hour east of Portland, hosts a ton of trails, and includes spectacular views of the local gorge.
Lookout Mountain Road – CO
At the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this Golden, CO road is probably the closest you’ll get to scoring a black diamond run in the offseason. First and foremost, the winding single-lane road is known for cycling — actually featured in several US Pro Challenge races. However, with such a pedigree you can bet the longboarding potential here is high. Plus, you’re only 12 miles from downtown Denver so finishing off a day on the asphalt with an evening at the watering hole is a mile-high possibility.
Lombard Steet – CA
Oh San Francisco, you’re crowded, costly, and filled with adrenaline-inducing downhill runs. Lombard Street included. Whether we’ve skated it before or not, we’re all familiar with the famous slalom-esque piece of the roadway encased by vegetation. After which, a straight downhill run opens up (relatively speaking) for those who can time the traffic lights and dodge local transit and traffic accordingly. Not the safest run, mind you, but definitely worth a go.
Lake Street – NY
Even though it’s less than 0.3 miles long, this Upstate NY city street has quickly become a go-to run for experienced to professionals riders. It’s a steep street no doubt, one where you’ll be sure to pick up power-slide-inducing speed almost instantly, but the thrill of bombing a residential NY tree-lined arena near the Ithaca Falls Natural Area is something we’d highly recommend to those who know what they’re up against. The city also fosters a thriving longboard scene as well so there’s certainly more runs in the area for the taking with the right introduction.
Sooes Creek Trail – WA
Looking to take things easy without the threat of oncoming traffic? The Soos Creek Trail is a perfect hodgepodge of bunny slope grades and more experienced sections all housed within Kings County Park near the Seattle-Tacoma area. It’s a 12-mile loop — meaning you can start and end at the trailhead — and a relatively risk-free run for all skills and experience. We’ll take it. Just be wary of wet asphalt come fall/winter.
Encino Hills Dr – CA
Picturesque canyon roads and weather aside, it would be foolish of us not to include a standout road from the region that invented the sport of skateboarding. Los Angeles, known for its gridlock traffic, does actually have a few noteworthy roads for longboarding devotees. And what better way to kick it into high gear than with Encino Hills Drive that actually forks into iconic Mulholland Drive where you can keep it rolling for miles to come.
The Ride: Inboard M1 Electric Skateboard
As one of the most advanced e-boards ever developed, the Inboard M1 Electric Skateboard boasts a top speed of 22 mph and comes complete with various riding modes, LED head and tail lights, an IP54 splash-resistant rating, and their Manta Drivetrain offering smooth acceleration with little resistance. Scoop one up now to get your hands on a complimentary battery pack for up to 14 miles of total range.
