Best Slingshot Rides on the West Coast
Three wheels, an open air cockpit, and miles upon miles of things to see and places to be seen. This is the West Coast in a Slingshot. Home to sunshine, blue skies, twisting pavement, spectacular elevation changes, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Throw in endless roadside eateries, beach towns, and historic attractions and you've found the closest thing to nirvana for a Slingshot owner.
We'll take you from California, up through Oregon, and on into Washington state—covering the most popular highways and byways where your Slingshot will turn plenty of heads and invite all kinds of envious stares.
California Slingshot Rides
California state’s long, narrow body, sandwiched between towering mountain peaks and pristine blue ocean, creates an amazing diversity of climate and ecology just waiting to be explored. If you’re up for it, you’ll find your two-seat Slingshot is one of the best vantage points to take it all in while sharing the experience with someone right next to you. Here are three of the most popular routes, including the famous Pacific Coast Highway.
These California roads offer plenty of places to stop and show off your ride. Use an app such as RIDE COMMAND to find places to eat, gas up, or have a spontaneous meet up.
Oregon Slingshot Rides
Drive your Slingshot farther north into Oregon, and you’ll discover a few differences from the Golden State. For starters, Oregon only has about 70 days of sunshine, while California averages about 205. You’ll also notice changes in ecology, terrain, and maybe even sense a more laid-back vibe should you choose any of these three popular routes through the Beaver State.
Be prepared for changing conditions, even in the summer months. Oregon's weather can be unpredictable. Consider adding a Slingshade or Excursion Top to your Slingshot and be sure to dress in layers.
Washington Slingshot Rides
There is no shortage of places to ride and things to see in Washington state. This picturesque area is home to an incredible array of vistas, villages, volcanic peaks, and plenty of places for Slingshot owners to stop, shop, eat, and flash their customized cruiser. The Northern Cascades Highway is one of those must-see experiences. We’ve also listed a few other favorites that highlight this state’s scenic beauty and twisting roadways.
Winthrop, located on the Northern Cascades Scenic Route, welcomes two- and three-wheeled riders to stop and enjoy this Old West town with many amenities and lodging options.
Best Time To Tour The West Coast In A Slingshot
The West Coast plays host to a dramatic diversity of climates, including rainy seasons, snow, and gusty winds. But generally speaking, driving between spring and fall will offer the best conditions across the board. Drives through higher elevations can be impacted by cold, ice, and snow in early spring and late fall, so check local conditions, road closures, and consider adding a couple of heated seats for added comfort. Of course, the farther south you head the longer you can tour in your open-air Slingshot—making Southern California road trips a year-round experience.
Always check the weather conditions along the length of your road trips before you head out, and use a weather and traffic app to help keep you up to date on rapidly changing conditions.
Plan Your Trip and Plan to Turn Heads
The Slingshot is the ultimate vehicle for self-expression, and the West Coast is the perfect place to make a few waves and create a little buzz along the way. Pick out a route and plan for a few pit stops to connect with the world and maybe a few locals. After all, these routes are not a race to the finish, but hundreds of opportunities to live life out loud. We hope to see you out there.
