Top Mountain Biking Trails in Oregon You Should Ride
Surrounded by majestic mountains, sprawling forests, and serene lakes, Oregon shines as a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or a beginner looking for new paths to conquer, let’s rack the bikes and thread through the tapestry of the Pacific Northwest.1. McKenzie River Trail
Stretching 26 miles from Clear Lake to McKenzie Bridge, this cloud-scraping trail is nothing short of breathtaking. The lava field rides and old-growth forests along the trail provide a unique Oregon experience. If you happen to ride it during late spring, make sure to drop by Sahalie and Koosah Falls for a splash.2. North Umpqua Trail
North Umpqua Trail can make any biker’s heart skip a beat with its cascading waterfalls, lush green foliage, and river views. Divided into 11 segments, this 78-mile trail near Roseburg offers challenge and adventure to riders of all skill levels.3. Surveyor’s Ridge
Nestled in the heart of Hood River Valley, Surveyor’s Ridge offers 18 miles of pure adrenaline. Riders can enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of Mt. Hood as they navigate narrow pathways and speedy descents. Drop by Solstice Cafe in downtown Hood River after the ride for a well-deserved, locally-sourced meal.
4. Alpine Trail
Adventurous souls should look no further than the Alpine Trail in the Willamette National Forest. This serpentine, 20-mile trail provides challenging ascents and thrilling drops, all while offering panoramic views of the Cascades. Take a snack break at Windy Pass to appreciate the stunning landscapes.5. Ochoco Mountains Loop
Located near Prineville, this 43-mile loop in Ochoco National Forest is known for its pristine trails, and less known trails mean fewer crowds. Expect to cross creeks and ride through diverse vegetation. Don’t forget to visit the old forest lookout at Lookout Mountain for some beautiful photographic moments.6. Oakridge
A treasure trove of trails, Oakridge, is fondly dubbed the “Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest.” Traversing through lush fern groves and along rushing rivers, Dead Mountain and Alpine trails are some of the local favorites you pounce on.7. Phil’s Trail
In the heart of Bend, Phil’s Trail is a testament to Central Oregon’s stage as a biking mecca. The network spans across 60 miles, offering a mix of easy paths and technical singletracks. After a day of peddling, quench your thirst at Deschutes Brewery over their flagship Black Butte Porter.8. Mrazek Trail
Another gem from Bend, the Mrazek Trail offers adventure and tranquility—a 19-mile epic ride through high desert pines and aromatic sagebrush. The trail ends at Shevlin Park; a perfect spot to relish a picnic beside the cool Tumalo Creek.9. Black Rock Freeride Trails
For those who prefer more gravity-defying thrills, kick it up a notch on the jumps and drops of Black Rock Trails in Falls City. Freeriding here requires skill, but the exhilaration is unparalleled. Visit the local favorite, Roger’s Deli, for a hearty refuel after the ride.10. Sandy Ridge Trails
Just an hour’s drive from downtown Portland, Sandy Ridge offers the perfect escape for city dwellers. Covering 15 miles of flowy singletrack with sufficient bumps and berms to keep it interesting, it’s a buzz for bikers of all skill levels.It seems like every corner of Oregon has a trail waiting to be discovered by eager mountain bikers. So ignore the call of your cozy couch, and answer the wild whispers of Oregon’s trails. After all, nothing beats the thrill of wheels humming, breeze rushing, and the echo of your own laughter as you dive through another bend. Happy riding, Oregonians!