California Highway 36: Fortuna to Red Bluff

There’s a stretch of pavement in northern California that riders speak of with a mix of awe and respect. Highway 36, running east from the Pacific coast town of Fortuna to the valley hub of Red Bluff, delivers a full day’s worth of motorcycling in one continuous ribbon of road. For sport-touring riders, it’s a journey that combines technical challenge, remote beauty, and the sweeping forests and rugged mountains of the Six Rivers National Forest and Coast Range.

Endless Curves, Endless Variety

Highway 36 is legendary for its curves — a constant parade of sweepers, hairpins, and fast transitions that demand attention from start to finish. Some riders summarize the experience in a simple phrase: 140 miles of curves. From the first climb out of Fortuna’s coastal redwoods to the final drop into the Sacramento Valley, this highway keeps the throttle hand busy and the mind sharp.

The character of the road shifts as the miles tick by. Tight canyon runs test low-speed control, rewarding those who take time to discover braking zones and set up proper cornering lines. Mid-section ridges deliver flowing sweepers and long sightlines. Farther east, the terrain opens to rolling oak hills where the pace can pick up. Each section feels distinct, but together they create a seamless riding experience that few other roads can match.

Road Conditions and Cautions

Riders will find Highway 36 well-paved from end to end. Corners are clearly marked, giving confidence to carry speed where visibility allows. The road is mostly two lanes, with regular passing zones and the occasional climbing lane to keep traffic flowing. Summer often brings construction projects and one-way traffic control, so patience may be required. Highway Patrol units are a familiar sight, especially closer to Red Bluff, so keep a watchful eye on the speedometer. Fuel is limited, so top off before leaving Fortuna or Red Bluff, and plan for a stop at Mad River or Platina if necessary. Cell coverage is unreliable, making self-sufficiency an important part of the ride.

Scenery in Three Acts

The western stretch sets the stage with misty redwood forest and cool ocean air. As the road pushes inland, thick pines and remote ranchland dominate the view, with twisting mountain passes that feel far removed from California’s busy highways. Finally, the descent into Red Bluff opens wide vistas across the Sacramento Valley, a fitting reward after hours in the hills.

From Town to Town

Fortuna marks the beginning of the ride, a coastal town known as the “Friendly City.” Nestled among redwoods just inland from the Pacific, it makes a convenient base with fuel, food, and lodging before the road heads east into the mountains.

Red Bluff anchors the eastern end of Highway 36, a historic Sacramento Valley town with deep ranching roots. Today it serves as both a supply stop and a comfortable overnight stay, with plenty of dining and lodging to welcome tired riders back from the hills.

A Sport Touring Classic

Highway 36 isn’t just a ride; it’s an experience. The isolation, the variety, and the sheer number of curves put it in a category of its own. Many riders link it with Highway 3 or 299 to build a multi-day tour, but even on its own, Highway 36 stands as one of California’s great motorcycle roads.

For sport-touring enthusiasts looking for a road that challenges skill and rewards stamina, Highway 36 delivers the full package. Plan carefully, ride prepared and be ready for a day that reminds you why we ride in the first place.