Top 10 Mountain Biking Trails in Oregon You Should Ride
Hello, fellow adventure enthusiasts! There’s something profoundly satisfying about riding through Oregon’s breathtaking landscape, feeling the wind rush past as dense forests, serene rivers, and jagged mountain peaks unfold before your eyes. Whether you’re a novice cyclist or a seasoned rider seeking the ride of your life, Oregon’s diverse trails offer something for everyone.
1. McKenzie River Trail
Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, the McKenzie River Trail spans 26.5 serene miles of lush forests and volcanic landscapes. The ride offers an enthralling blend of flowy singletrack and technical sections that keep riders on their toes. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning vistas around Tamolitch Pool. For an energy boost, stop by Ike’s Lakeside Pizza for a bite before you get going.2. Oakridge Trails
Oakridge, fondly known as the mountain biking capital of the Northwest, offers numerous trails. One of the stars in this biking paradise is the Alpine Trail with breathtaking viewpoints and exhilarating downhill sections. At the end of the ride, reward your hard work with local craft beer at the Brewers Union Local 180.
3. Sandy Ridge Trail System
At just under an hour east of Portland, the Sandy Ridge Trail System offers diverse, purpose-built trails that cater to all skill levels. Jump on the Rock Drop for a series of twists, turns, and jumps that ride like a rollercoaster, or take the Hide and Seek trail for a peaceful journey through the forest.4. Waldo Lake Loop
Waldo Lake Loop borders one of the clearest lakes in Oregon. This 21-mile loop provides breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding Cascades. Remember to take a break and enjoy a refreshing swim. Pro tip: the mosquitos can get intense, so pack plenty of repellent!5. Black Rock Mountain Bike Area
Located near Falls City, the Black Rock Mountain Bike Area is a freerider’s heaven, specifically built for high-octane downhill riding with multiple challenging wooden structures. It’s incredible, exhilarating, and daunting all at once. Check your brakes, strap on your safety gear, and prepare yourself for a thrilling descent.6. Syncline Trail
This gem on the Washington border is famed for its sublime views of Columbia River Gorge. Syncline’s terrain is varied with technical rock gardens, challenging climbs, and fast descents. When you’re finished, treat yourself to a heaping plate of tacos at Taqueria El Cazadore in nearby White Salmon.7. Mount Bachelor Bike Park
Mt. Bachelor allows you to save your energy for the descent. Ride the chairlift up and descend one of their many gravity-focused trails, ranging from beginner slopes to challenging downhill tracks. The Last Chance trail is a local favorite with its series of jumps and bermed turns.8. Peterson Ridge Trail
Ideal for novices and families, Peterson Ridge Trail in Sisters features a host of easy-to-navigate singletrack paths with stunning views of the Three Sisters and Mount Jefferson. After your ride, stop by the Sisters Bakery for some well-earned pastries.9. Surveyor’s Ridge Trail
The Pacific Northwest regular, Surveyor’s Ridge Trail is a classic out-and-back trail, with rocky technical sections and swooping descents with views of Mount Hood. It’s a workout, but the mesmerizing panorama from Bald Butte is worth every bead of sweat.10. Post Canyon
Post Canyon, on the outskirts of Hood River, provides a wide range of trails from flowy singletrack to giant gap jumps. Oh, and if you’re ridin’ in the fall season, you’ll be in for a colorful symphony of turning leaves — a true Oregon spectacle.Oregon’s bike trails are renowned for the exhilarating rides they provide amid nature’s unrivalled beauty. So saddle up, gear up, and let the Beaver State’s trails lead you on an epic mountain biking adventure. Be safe, respect the trails and their rules, and most importantly, enjoy the ride! And remember, most adventures are best topped off with a post-ride meal, so supporting local eateries is always a win-win. Here’s to endless trails, countless stories, and the ride of your life!