The best road cycling routes in Oregon

Embark on the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway for a moderate road cycling adventure that spans 38.4 miles (61.9 km). You will ascend 1769 feet (539 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, offering a rewarding workout. As you pedal, you will witness the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains, a constant companion throughout your ride. The route transitions through varied landscapes, from arid high-desert terrain to lush wetlands. You will also cross the two iconic bridges over the Deschutes River, providing picturesque views of its middle section and surrounding ranches.

The Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway is easily accessible, beginning and concluding in Drake Park, right in the heart of downtown Bend. This central starting point makes it simple to reach and allows for convenient pre or post-ride activities in the city. While the majority of the route is paved, be mindful of farm equipment that may be present on rural sections. Additionally, some sections share roadways with other users, so stay alert.

This popular loop near Bend, Oregon, offers a diverse and captivating experience for road cyclists. The route is notable for its continuously changing scenery, which includes passing through Shevlin Park, a local natural gem. You will experience the unique blend of native high-desert landscapes alongside active hobby farms, showcasing the region's varied character.

Embark on the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway, a moderate 47.2-mile (76.0 km) racebike route that promises ever-changing scenery over approximately 3 hours and 36 minutes. You will gain 2097 feet (639 metres) as you pedal through a diverse landscape. Expect to see native high-desert terrain transition into lush hay fields, all while enjoying distant views of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains. The route is uniquely defined by its two crossings of the Deschutes River, where you can observe lovely wetlands and ranches.

This bikeway conveniently starts and finishes in Bend, making access straightforward. Drake Park in downtown Bend serves as an excellent starting point, offering amenities like restrooms and parking for your convenience. While you will mostly be on rural roads with generally low traffic, remain aware of farm equipment and other multi-use roadways. For a safer experience, it is recommended to ride the main loop portion in a clockwise direction, especially where it briefly joins Highway 20, which features a dedicated bike lane.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway offers a unique glimpse into the region's natural environment. As you cycle, you will pass through Shevlin Park, where Tumalo Creek carves its way through a rugged canyon, adding another layer of natural wonder to your journey. This route stands out for its blend of high-desert vistas, agricultural landscapes, and riverine ecosystems, providing a comprehensive and rewarding road cycling experience in Central Oregon.

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 a challenging road cycling adventure around Mt. Bachelor, a difficult 63.1 miles (101.6 km) loop that demands 3163 feet (964 metres) of climbing. This route, estimated to take 4 hours and 28 minutes, offers you sweeping views of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains, including Mt. Bachelor itself, South Sister, and Broken Top. You will cycle through dense Ponderosa pine forests and past serene alpine lakes like Lava Lake and Elk Lake, experiencing the diverse high-desert landscape.

To make the most of your ride, plan your visit between June and October, as this is when the Cascade Lakes Highway is typically clear of snow. Be aware that sections of the highway beyond Mt. Bachelor close to vehicles during winter months, making road cycling impossible on the full loop. Always check local conditions before you head out to ensure the route is accessible and safe for your journey.

This loop is particularly notable for its unique geological features, including a vast, 2,000-year-old lava flow that showcases the region's dramatic volcanic history. As you pedal, you will witness the raw power of nature that shaped this area, making the journey more than just a physical challenge. It is a chance to connect with the ancient forces that created the stunning scenery around you.

Embark on the Hillsboro and Hagg Lake Loop for a moderate road cycling adventure through Scoggins Valley Park. This route spans 42.3 miles (68.0 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1320 feet (402 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will experience a varied landscape, from the calm waters of Henry Hagg Lake to the rolling hills of the Oregon Coast Range. The trail also guides you through open farmlands and local vineyards, offering a pleasant mix of scenery. You can enjoy both relaxed sections around the lake and more demanding stretches originating from Hillsboro.

When planning your ride on the Hillsboro and Hagg Lake Loop, you will find parking readily available at several spots around Henry Hagg Lake, a popular starting point for cyclists. The area is well-equipped with convenient "Bike Hubs" at key locations, providing access to tools, pumps, and even solar-powered USB charging stations. While no specific permits are mentioned for this route, it is wise to remain aware of occasional parked cars along the shoulders. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, such as deer, which can sometimes be present on the wider sections of the road.

This loop is a notable destination for road cyclists in the region, offering a comprehensive tour of the Scoggins Valley. The route's appeal lies in its ability to combine a scenic lake circuit with views extending to the distant Oregon Coast Range mountains. It provides a rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and agricultural landscapes surrounding Hillsboro. The diverse terrain ensures that your ride remains engaging from start to finish.