The best traffic-free bike rides in Clackamas County

This guide highlights several excellent no-traffic gravel bike trails in Clackamas County, offering a range of distances and difficulties. You'll find a selection of routes that allow you to explore the region's diverse landscapes away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, for a moderate and relatively accessible option, consider the Springwater Corridor – Powell Butte loop. This route offers a mix of paved and gravel sections, making it suitable for those looking for a less challenging ride away from cars. The Springwater Corridor itself is a well-known greenway popular with cyclists of all ages.

Clackamas County's gravel trails offer breathtaking scenery. You can expect lush forests, river views, and even glimpses of Mount Hood. For example, the Timothy Lake – Clackamas Wilderness loop provides stunning mountain vistas and passes by the beautiful Timothy Lake. Other routes might take you through areas with old-growth forests and wildflower meadows, like those found around Mount Talbert Nature Park.

Absolutely! Clackamas County is rich in natural beauty. While riding, you might be near highlights such as the majestic Ramona Falls, a picturesque waterfall, or the scenic Clackamas River. The region also features stunning viewpoints like the Zigzag Canyon Overlook and opportunities to see Mount Hood and the White River Glacier.

The routes in this guide vary significantly in length and challenge. You'll find options ranging from moderate rides around 20 kilometers, like the Springwater Corridor – Powell Butte loop, to more difficult and longer adventures exceeding 90 kilometers, such as the Timothy Lake – Clackamas Wilderness loop. Most of the featured routes are considered difficult, offering substantial elevation gain and requiring good fitness.

Yes, several of the featured routes are designed as loops to maximize your exploration and minimize backtracking. For instance, the Leif Erikson Drive – Northwest Leif Erikson Drive loop from South Waterfront/South Moody and the Timothy Lake – Clackamas Wilderness loop are excellent examples of circular routes that keep you away from vehicular traffic.

Clackamas County offers diverse gravel terrain. You'll encounter a mix of smooth gravel, decayed paved sections, and potentially more challenging 'chonk' gravel roads. Some routes may also incorporate parts of urban greenways, providing a varied riding experience through river valleys, dense forests, and the foothills of Mount Hood.

The komoot community generally appreciates the outdoor experiences in Clackamas County. Riders often praise the scenic beauty, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to ride away from traffic. The region's combination of lush forests, river views, and mountain backdrops makes for a highly enjoyable gravel biking adventure.

Yes, several beautiful lakes are part of or near the gravel biking experience in Clackamas County. The Timothy Lake – Clackamas Wilderness loop directly features Timothy Lake. Other notable lakes in the area include Trillium Lake and Little Crater Lake, offering serene settings and picturesque views.

The best time to enjoy gravel biking in Clackamas County is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions and better trail surfaces. However, conditions can vary, especially at higher elevations near Mount Hood, so always check local forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Clackamas County offers several demanding no-traffic gravel routes. The Timothy Lake – Clackamas Wilderness loop, at over 90 kilometers with significant elevation gain, is a prime example. Another challenging option is the Leif Erikson Drive – Northwest Leif Erikson Drive loop from Goose Hollow/Southwest Jefferson Street, which covers over 66 kilometers and features substantial climbing.