Two Wheels, Too Fun
With some of America’s most scenic roads and hundreds of miles of continuous mountain biking trails, Central Oregon is arguably the nation’s ultimate spot for cycling. Here on the sun-drenched, dry side of the Cascades, biking amid teeming wilderness is possible year-round, but spring is when the fun and adventure amplifies, with world-class riding at every turn. “Central Oregon is an awesome place for people to ride source on or off the road, due to the wide variety of options we have here and the high desert climate’s mild conditions,” said Scott Auerbach of 4 Season’s Recreational Outfitters in Sunriver. “I prefer to ride on the less-traveled trails off the road. One of my favorites is the Black Rock Trail, just outside of Sunriver, which offers excellent views and great trail conditions in the spring. Road cyclists can choose to ride flatter roads east of town, or head toward the mountains for greater elevation changes.”
ROAD BIKING
Oregon has twelve official Scenic Bikeways across the state, five of which are in Central Oregon. These are musts for families to adventure-seekers. Twin Bridges is a 36-mile ride that begins in Bend’s downtown Drake Park and rolls gently through farm and ranchland and canyons with views of snowcapped peaks. The Sisters to Smith Rock route is a moderate 37-mile journey through Sisters country to Smith Rock State Park’s remarkable rock walls. The Crooked River winds at the base of the monoliths towering above. For a challenge, the McKenzie Pass bikeway is a 37-mile route that winds through forests and climbs to a volcanic lava-rock summit. Take a break at the Dee Wright Observatory, where the Three Sisters peaks appear as if they are within arm’s reach. Spring bonus: most of this ride is on Route 242 (on the U.S. Register of Historic Places) and open only to bicycles in early spring, when just enough snow has melted. Nearby in Sisters, the Metolius River Loops vary from short, family-friendly rides of about three miles, to a moderate, 24-mile ride. Begin and end at the 90-year-old Camp Sherman Store and Fly Shop. Travel along the wild and scenic waters of the Metolius River to the Wizard Falls fish hatchery, a great place for kids to feed the trout, kokanee and Atlantic salmon.
CLASSIC RIDES
From downtown Madras, Madras Mountain Views is a 30-mile loop with sweeping views of the Cascades, Cove Palisades State Park and Lake Billy Chinook. The area’s mild climate makes the ride a perfect option for spring. Other classic road biking routes include the Prineville Century Loop, a 98-mile trip through rolling high desert east of Bend, past the charming Western town of Prineville and along the Crooked River and Prineville Reservoir. Sunriver offers 40 miles of paved bike paths. Ride along the river, among the pines or on the new section to the Lava Butte area, a fun option for families. The Bachelor Party Out & Back, 45-mile roundtrip ride from Bend to Mt. Bachelor, is one the most popular and scenic road cycling routes in the region. The 22-mile gradual ascent through the Deschutes National Forest along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort rewards you with an exhilarating descent back.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
With more than 300 miles of trails for all levels, it’s no wonder that Central Oregon is the darling of knobby-tire aficionados and has been featured on mountain biking magazine covers worldwide. There’s a trail for everyone, from mellow scenic routes to technical trails and heart-pumping climbs. The region’s warmer areas offer routes for spring riding, but it’s always best to check trail conditions on the Central Oregon Trail Alliance website www.cotamtb.com.
Here is a look at a fraction of the region’s rides: Phil’s Trail – Regardless of your skill level, epic singletrack is just a short ride from your favorite breakfast spot in Bend. In just a few minutes, you’re in the Deschutes National Forest, pedaling amid towering ponderosa pines. Ride gradual ascents up to Whoops for banked corners and jumps. Those seeking greater challenges can link up to higher elevation rides.
Radlands – In Redmond, these few miles of trails are a great option for spring riding, with superb views of the surrounding mountains including Smith Rock.
Horse Ridge – This trail about 20 miles southeast of Bend is prime for spring riding among 40 square miles of juniper forest and a high desert ridge with fantastic views of the Cascades. Expert riders are happiest here.
Maston – Ancient juniper trees protect this gently rolling terrain from harsh weather, making it another good option for early spring riding. With more than 4,000 acres of vast, open wilderness about 13 miles northwest of Bend, the ride offers panoramic views of the Cascades.
Mt. Bachelor Downhill Bike Park – Ride the lift up and scream down for miles on newly added singletrack this summer and fall. A seemingly endless number of rides await and novices need not feel intimidated.
An abundance of retail shops offer great advice and Bend’s Cog Wild Bicycle Tours & Shuttles serves families to experienced riders. These guides share their intimate knowledge of the trails and help you get the most out of your adventure.
Source: Cascade Sotheby’s Realty
