The best traffic-free bike rides around Portland
4.4
(142)
7,122
riders
39
rides
Road cycling around Portland offers a diverse landscape, characterized by the Willamette River, extensive green spaces, and volcanic formations. The region features a mix of flat, low-traffic roads on Sauvie Island, alongside more challenging climbs up dormant volcanoes like Mount Tabor and extinct cinder cones such as Rocky Butte. Cyclists can explore routes that follow riverfronts, pass through urban areas with iconic bridges, and venture into forested areas. This varied terrain provides options for different skill levels, from easy riverside…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(3)
98
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(3)
87
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
35
riders
19.0km
00:57
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(4)
98
riders
50.9km
02:34
220m
220m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
88
riders
30.6km
01:27
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Portland
Tips from the Community
Boring, Oregon has become somewhat famous, or infamous, depending on how you look at it. In recent years it has become well known due to its humorous take on its name and partnering with Dull, Scotland as "sister cities" in order to promote tourism to both locations.
0
0
These guys do fun decorations for several holidays, but Halloween is one of the biggest. Lots of cool blow molds, lights and windows signs. Other folks in the neighborhood apparently call this the Celebration House, but we've always called it the Holiday House.
1
0
The Springwater Corridor forms part of Portland's 40-mile Loop trail system, extending from downtown Portland to the town of Boring. The paved trail follows the Willamette River and Johnson Creek, passing through neighborhoods, parks, wetlands, and industrial zones. With connections to Portland's light rail and city buses, the trail offers convenient access and stops at Beggars-Tick Wildlife Refuge, Leach Botanical Garden, and Powell Butte Nature Park. The trail, built on a former railroad corridor, opened in 1996 after Portland obtained the rail line in 1990.
0
0
The 40 Mile Loop isn't a single loop trail, and isn't even limited to 40 miles. The original proposal for the trail was 40 miles but it now encompasses a planned network of over 140 miles of interconnected trails. This section along the river is particularly scenic with great views of the river.
0
0
Great loop to take from any part of PDX. I cruise from NE take the east bank esplanade to the Springwater on the Willamette path to Oaks Park and the Sellwood bridge. Some near dirt trails off the path along the waterfront. You’ll see the occasional camper off the less travelled path but everyone seems to keep to themselves. Sellwood bridge has some nice views of the Portland skyline you cross the river and you can take the South Waterfront Greenway back to Downtown or the Tilikum Crossing Bridge. It’s a pretty nice and simple convenient way to see different parts of town and be off in your own world if you’re looking for a ride to clear your head at 7AM, 2PM or 3AM it’s always pretty quiet
0
0
You can bike up the road to the top of Rocky Butte, which offers some of the best views of Mount Hood in the area. The summit is located within Joseph Wood Hill Park, which is a really popular destination for sightseers in cars, so be careful when zipping up and down the road on your bike.
1
0
Marvel at the Sellwood Bridge, a majestic arch spanning the mighty Willamette River. Its latest iteration, completed in 2016, succeeded the 1925 original. The inaugural bridge, Portland's pioneering fixed-span crossing, reigned as Oregon's busiest two-lane bridge, serving as the lone river crossing for miles in every direction.
0
0
Just off the Springwater Corridor Trail, this area of lowland is, as its name suggests, a floodplain. The area includes woodland and bushy marshland. It is popular with wildlife, notably with birds and insects.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Portland?
There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Portland featured in this guide. These include a mix of easy and moderate rides, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What are the difficulty levels of these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes in this guide are primarily easy to moderate. You'll find 20 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed ride, and 13 moderate routes for those looking for a bit more challenge. There are no difficult routes listed in this specific selection.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic road cycling in Portland?
Yes, many of Portland's no-traffic routes are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride back to your starting point. For example, the Mount Tabor loop from Clinton Street/Southeast 12th Avenue provides an easy 16.8 km ride with some elevation, while the Tilikum Crossing – Willamette River view loop offers a scenic 22.2 km urban experience.
What scenic viewpoints can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes in Portland?
Many routes offer stunning views. For instance, the Rocky Butte – Mount Tabor loop provides vistas from both Rocky Butte and Mount Tabor. You can also find expansive city views from Council Crest, which offers glimpses of Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes in Portland?
Absolutely. Portland is known for its family-friendly cycling infrastructure. Routes like the Springwater Corridor Trail and sections of the 40-Mile Loop are largely separated from vehicular traffic, offering smooth, paved surfaces ideal for all ages. The Trolley Trail Loop is another excellent option, utilizing multi-use paths with minimal car interaction.
Where can I find parking for no-traffic road cycling routes in Portland?
Parking availability varies by route. Many trailheads for routes like the Springwater Corridor or those accessing parks like Mount Tabor offer designated parking lots. For urban routes, public parking garages or street parking might be available. It's always advisable to check specific route details or local city parking information before you go.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
Yes, Portland's public transport system, TriMet, is bike-friendly. Buses are equipped with bike racks, and bikes are allowed on MAX light rail and WES commuter rail during off-peak hours. This makes it convenient to reach many no-traffic cycling routes, especially those within the city, such as those near the Willamette River or Mount Tabor.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along these routes?
You'll encounter diverse natural beauty. The Springwater Corridor passes through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. Many routes follow the scenic Willamette River, showcasing its bridges and waterfront. You can also ride up Mount Tabor, a dormant volcano, or explore areas with views of the Columbia River Gorge, known for its numerous waterfalls.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Portland?
The best time for road cycling in Portland is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, you'll experience milder temperatures, less rain, and longer daylight hours, making for more comfortable and enjoyable rides. However, many paved, no-traffic routes are accessible year-round, weather permitting.
Are there places to stop for coffee or food along these routes?
Portland's vibrant cycling culture means many routes, especially those within or near urban areas, have convenient access to cafes, brewpubs, and restaurants. Routes like the Willamette River Loop or those passing through neighborhoods will offer numerous options for refreshments. Sauvie Island also has farm stands and small eateries during peak season.
What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling routes in Portland?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Portland are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 136 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful scenery, and the peace of mind that comes with riding away from vehicle traffic.
Most popular routes around Portland
Most popular attractions around Portland
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
