Riding the International Selkirk Loop in Eastern Washington and British Columbia

The International Selkirk Loop has lots of great sweeps, twisties and esses for those full of adventure. It also takes you into Canada for the longest free ferry ride in North America. However, be sure before you leave on this ride that you have a passport, one of your favorite leather jackets for women, and a friend or two to enjoy all the great sights with you. This loop has been designated as one of the top 10 scenic destinations in the Northern Rockies.

The main International Selkirk Loop ride is 280 miles. There are six additional loop rides that will add another 580 miles if you want to do them all. On the Selkirk Loop website there are two suggested itineraries. The itinerary from Spokane around the Loop averages 177 miles per day and takes 4 days. It includes two side trips making the trip total 707 miles. The second suggested itinerary starts in Calgary and averages 207 miles per day for a total of 827 miles. Included in this tour are three side trips.

Riding north from Spokane one of the first side trips takes in Kootenai Falls-just a short hike from the road. It's a nice break from the saddle. Another highlight of this tour is the Kootenay Lake Ferry which is the longest free ferry ride in North America. The crossing averages 45 minutes and takes you through some very beautiful mountain and lake scenery. Ainsworth is another highlight which is a hot spring swimming and 'soaking' hole-great idea for the end of the day. There is a hotel and nice restaurant so you could plan one of your over-night stops here.

The road between Creston and Crawford Bay winds along the 90 mile long Kootenay Lake and has 270 curves making it the 'best motorcycle road' in Canada. The road between Kaslo and New Denver is also some of the best riding and most beautiful scenery of the Loop.

The Rivers, Dams and Mines Super Side Trip will take you to Rossland, one of Canada's highest cities. On the way you might see Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep, elk and mule deer. This trip also has a number of historical sites such as the Doukhobor Discovery Center (the history of the Doukhobors from Russia) as well as the Station Museum, one of the best railway station museums anywhere. You can also visit a zinc mine and a gold mine on this loop. If you love history you will enjoy this side trip.

The Harley-Davidson Website has a ride plan for the Selkirk Loop as well. It is a shared plan and you can use it, add to it, or make your own ride plan on their website. They have a list of the Best Western Hotels so you can make reservations as you plan your trip.

Margie Siegel, one of twelve women on a ride sponsored by Harley-Davidson, said, 'The Selkirk Loop is an undiscovered bit of North America. The roads are un-crowded, the locals are not overwhelmed with tourists, and excellent accommodations and food can be had for reasonable prices. My advice? Go north for your next road trip.'

Jason Voorhees had this to say about the loop. 'I did this in July and it was by far the best road I've ever experienced!'

So while you are dreaming about where to go next, shop online for great leather jackets for women to find your womens leather motorcycle jacket. Look up the Selkirk Loop and plan your trip. Then service your bike, call your friends to join you and pack your bags. Enjoy one of the best roads for 'motorcycle girlfriend getaways' in the Northwest.

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