The best road cycling routes in Multnomah County

Embark on the Willamette Greenway and Trolley Trail Loop for a moderate road cycling adventure that blends urban landscapes with natural riverside beauty. This 39.9 miles (64.1 km) route, with 2095 feet (638 metres) of elevation gain, offers a diverse experience, from the shady parks and quaint neighborhoods of the Trolley Trail to the lush greenery of the Springwater Corridor. You can expect to complete this ride in about 2 hours and 27 minutes, enjoying continuous views of the Willamette River as you pass landmarks like the Oregon City Bridge and the Eastbank Esplanade.

To begin your ride, consider using Portland's MAX light rail, which is bike-friendly and offers an eco-friendly way to reach the trail. Be aware that parts of the Willamette Greenway Trail can get busy with pedestrians, especially during summer, so ride carefully and share the path. Some sections of the Greenway are also narrow and curvy, requiring you to stay alert to your surroundings.

This loop provides a comprehensive tour of the Portland metropolitan area's cycling infrastructure, connecting distinct paths. You will encounter artistic installations, like a chainsaw-carved salmon-catching bear, along the Trolley Trail, adding unique visual interest to your journey. The route transitions from urban charm to more rural settings as you cycle outside the city, offering varied scenery throughout.

The Forest Park & Sauvie Island Loop is a moderate racebike route offering a dynamic ride through contrasting landscapes. You'll cover 35.6 miles (57.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1653 feet (504 metres), typically completing it in about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Begin your journey in the deep, urban forest of Forest Park, where dense tree canopies create cool, shaded sections. As you climb, you might glimpse Sauvie Island and distant snow-capped peaks on clear days. The route then transitions to the open, flat farmlands and wildlife preserves of Sauvie Island, providing charming views of the Multnomah Channel and the iconic Saint Johns Bridge. This loop delivers a unique blend of challenging climbs and scenic, relaxed stretches.

When planning your ride, be aware that the wildlife area on Sauvie Island has seasonal closures, typically from October 1 to April 15. It is wise to check current conditions before you go, especially if you plan to explore that specific area. You should also be mindful of motorists on Sauvie Island roads, as they are shared. If you are riding between November and June, fenders are recommended for the Forest Park sections due to potentially wet conditions and muddy trails.

This route stands out for its dramatic shift in scenery, moving from a deeply forested urban wilderness to expansive farmlands. The contrast between the dense, shaded trails of Forest Park and the open, agricultural vistas of Sauvie Island makes for a memorable experience. You will encounter both challenging ascents and flat, fast sections, providing a comprehensive test of your racebike skills. The route's unique combination of natural beauty and urban proximity makes it a popular choice for local cyclists.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure through Portland's diverse landscapes with the Forest Park, Rock Creek Road, Linnton, and St. Johns Bridge loop. This route spans 32.2 miles (51.8 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 2560 feet (780 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 33 minutes to complete. You'll experience the lush, green canopy of Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States, before enjoying impressive views of the iconic St. Johns Bridge and the Willamette River. Prepare for a ride that combines challenging climbs with thrilling descents, offering a varied terrain experience.

This road cycling route is best suited for riders with good fitness, given its moderate difficulty and substantial elevation changes. While much of the path is well-paved, be prepared for some segments that might be unpaved and could present a challenge. When crossing the St. Johns Bridge, exercise caution; its sidewalks are narrow, making shared use difficult and cycling alongside traffic potentially harrowing. Plan your ride during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenery and navigate any tricky sections safely.

This loop offers a unique blend of urban forest tranquility and city views, passing through the local character of Linnton. On clear days, you might even catch glimpses of Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams in the distance, adding to the scenic reward. The route's design ensures you encounter both the natural beauty of Forest Park and the architectural marvel of the St. Johns Bridge, making it a distinctive Portland cycling experience.

Embark on a challenging road cycling adventure along the Historic Columbia River Highway and Marine Drive Loop. This difficult 58.6-mile (94.3 km) route will take you through lush forests and past dramatic basalt cliffs, offering an immersive experience. You'll climb 3367 feet (1026 metres) over an estimated 4 hours and 44 minutes, with rewarding views of waterfalls like the iconic Multnomah Falls. The ride blends demanding climbs with scenic sections, making it ideal for experienced cyclists.

When planning your ride, note that recent path improvements have made connecting from Marine Drive to the Historic Columbia River Highway much smoother, helping you avoid heavy traffic. This allows for a more continuous and enjoyable journey. You will find several segments of the Historic Columbia River Highway are car-free, providing a peaceful and immersive cycling experience. Consider starting early to make the most of the estimated 4 hours and 44 minutes duration and to enjoy the quieter sections.

This route is notable for its historical significance as part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Historic Columbia River Highway itself is an engineering marvel, one of the first scenic highways in the United States. As you ride, you will pass the historic Vista House at Crown Point, which offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Gorge, making the effort worthwhile. This combination of history and natural beauty sets the route apart.

Embark on The Rivers loop, a moderate racebike route that guides you through Portland's diverse riverfront landscapes. This 57.6 miles (92.8 km) journey offers a blend of urban vistas and natural scenery along the city's waterways. You'll navigate well-maintained paved cycleways, including sections of the Springwater Corridor and the Marine Drive Trail. Expect to gain 1309 feet (399 metres) in elevation over an estimated 3 hours and 23 minutes of riding. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Oregon Slough Railroad Bridge as you pedal, a memorable landmark on your ride.

Planning your ride on The Rivers loop is straightforward, as the route is designed for road cyclists and features predominantly paved, well-maintained surfaces. You can typically find parking conveniently located near the starting point within Portland. The city's extensive bike network also provides easy access to the start from various neighborhoods, allowing you to cycle there directly. This route is generally accessible throughout the year, but checking local weather conditions before you head out is always a good idea.

This route stands out for its unique combination of urban exploration and natural riverfront beauty, showcasing Portland's commitment to cycling infrastructure. It offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere alongside its serene natural environments. The trail's design allows you to enjoy significant mileage without encountering extreme climbs, making it an excellent choice for a substantial road cycling adventure.

Embark on the Forest Park loop, a moderate road cycling adventure that takes you through one of America's largest urban forests. This route spans 31.2 miles (50.2 km) and challenges you with 2294 feet (699 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 58 minutes. As you pedal, you will find yourself immersed in a lush, green canopy, feeling far removed from the city while still enjoying the convenience of its proximity. Keep an eye out for the iconic St. Johns Bridge, offering a striking landmark view as you navigate the winding roads.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the park is easily accessible from downtown Portland. You can find parking available near various trailheads and access points around the park's perimeter. Before heading out, always check for any local regulations or potential closures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This preparation will help you make the most of your time on the trail.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience the Pacific Northwest's dense, unspoiled forest ecosystem without venturing far from urban amenities. The trail showcases diverse plant life and wildlife within its cool, shady drainages, providing a refreshing escape. It stands out as a significant natural landmark, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy a substantial workout within a truly distinctive setting.