The best traffic-free bike rides in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers a wide selection of routes for gravel biking. This guide features 18 carefully curated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ensuring a peaceful and scenic ride away from vehicles.

The Columbia River Gorge offers diverse conditions throughout the year. Spring (April-May) is ideal for wildflowers, especially in the drier eastern parts, and generally pleasant temperatures. Summer (June-August) is warm and sunny, perfect for longer rides, but can be busier. Fall (September-October) brings stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. While some trails are accessible year-round, always check local conditions, especially for higher elevation routes or during winter months when snow and ice can be present.

While many of the routes in this guide are rated as difficult, the Columbia River Gorge does offer options suitable for beginners. For instance, the Deschutes River Trail to Harris Ranch is known as a beginner-friendly option, mostly flat and great for those new to gravel riding. The car-free sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, particularly between Hood River and Mosier, also provide a scenic and accessible experience for all skill levels.

The Columbia River Gorge is incredibly diverse. You'll experience a dramatic transition from lush, temperate rainforests and numerous waterfalls in the west to arid grasslands and open vistas in the east. Expect towering basalt cliffs, views of the Columbia River, and glimpses of Mount Hood. Trails like the Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park offer expansive views, while others wind through forests and past historic sites.

Absolutely. The Columbia River Gorge is well-regarded for its challenging gravel biking opportunities. Routes like the Gobblers Knob – Panther Creek loop from Carson, covering over 63 km with significant elevation gain, or the extensive Klickitat Park – View of the Klickitat Valley loop from Lyle, which spans over 99 km and nearly 2,000 meters of climbing, provide a demanding and rewarding experience for advanced gravel bikers.

Many no-traffic gravel routes offer access to the Gorge's iconic attractions. You might pass by viewpoints like Crown Point, or stunning waterfalls such as Multnomah Falls and Benson Bridge, Wiesendanger Falls, or Punch Bowl Falls. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail also features the famous Mosier Twin Tunnels, a car-free section popular with cyclists.

Yes, several excellent loop routes are available for gravel biking in the Columbia River Gorge. For example, the Panorama Point – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Hood River offers a fantastic 50 km ride, combining scenic views with the unique experience of the Twin Tunnels. Other notable loops include the Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park and the View of the Klickitat Valley – Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park.

Parking availability varies by trail. Many popular trailheads, especially along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail or near state parks like Mayer State Park, offer designated parking areas. For routes starting in towns like Hood River, Carson, or Lyle, you can often find public parking options. Always check specific route details or local signage for the best parking locations and any potential fees.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in the Columbia River Gorge, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning, diverse scenery, the feeling of being truly 'away from traffic' on these dedicated routes, and the rewarding challenge offered by the varied terrain. The combination of physical activity with immense natural beauty and historical intrigue is frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Columbia River Gorge is dotted with charming small towns that offer amenities. Towns like Hood River, Mosier, and Lyle are often starting points or pass-throughs for gravel routes, providing access to cafes, restaurants, and local shops where you can refuel and experience local culture. The Hood River Fruit Loop also offers opportunities to visit orchards and farms.

Public transport options to access trailheads in the Columbia River Gorge can be limited, especially for more remote gravel routes. However, some areas, particularly along the Historic Columbia River Highway, may have seasonal shuttle services or limited bus routes that can accommodate bikes. It's best to research specific public transport options for your chosen starting point in advance, as most gravel routes are more easily accessed by car.

Beyond the well-known trails, the Columbia River Gorge offers numerous 'empty forest roads' and 'old dirt roads' that serve as hidden gems for gravel biking. Routes like the Wahkiacus High Prairie, which encircles the Klickitat Trail, or the Fire & Ice Cave Loop in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, offer unique experiences through varied terrain and open forests, often with fewer crowds and stunning, unexpected views.