10 Best Bike Trails in Oregon

Oregon is one of the few states in the country that utilizes bikeways in tourism advertising. This is thanks to the Scenic Bikeways program. This program has developed one of the easiest ways to explore the area on two wheels. It also encompasses the best bike trails in Oregon.

10 Best Bike Trails in Oregon

The best bike trails in Oregon offer scenic views that can fill your morning, afternoon, or evening with beautiful memories. Many of the bike trails in Oregon go for miles, some even over a hundred miles. However, you do not need to follow the entire trail from beginning to end.

Don’t let the longer trails scare you off. Instead, explore the trails a bit at a time. Take the Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway as an example. This trail is 161 miles long and is considered to be extremely difficult. This trail is for adults and teens who want to see beautiful views of mountains with “Mars-like pillars.” 

Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway

A more moderate trail is the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway. This trail comes complete with lake views and ends in the historic downtown of Cottage Grove. The downtown area may look familiar as it was featured in the 1986 classic film “Stand By Me.”

You can bring the whole family down for a ride on the trail and end it with a delicious meal in a historic part of Oregon. 

Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail

You can’t talk about the best bike trails in Oregon without mentioning the Columbia River Highway State Trail. This trail is a 13-mile trail with paved segments that hug the river. You will pass by beautiful cliffs, grasslands, and forests surrounding you with beautiful nature scapes.

Don’t forget to snap some shots of the beautifully crafted tunnels and arched walls you will pass through. 

Deschutes River Railbed Trail

Oregon is a place filled with natural beauty, which is why there are so many outdoor enthusiasts. They all come together at Deschutes River Railbed Trail. You will ride past hikers, horseback riders, anglers, and watersports enthusiasts here. It is a beautiful place that calls for the outdoorsy life Oregon offers.

This trail also has a remote segment, allowing wildlife to thrive. You will be able to see it all on this beautiful trail. Just be sure to bring plenty of water as things can heat up around the area depending on the time of year you visit. 

Astoria Riverwalk

We have already traveled through a scene of “Stand By Me” at the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway. This time, let’s revisit the adventures of “The Goonies.” The Astoria Riverwalk is one of the best bike trails in Oregon and is only 6.4 miles long.

The trail follows along the water right past a place known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific.” This is where the Columbia River meets the sea. It is worth exploring for the sealife alone.

Sun-Lava Trail

Did you know that Oregon is home to some of the few volcanoes on the West Coast? These volcanoes are still active, though there hasn’t been an eruption since 1866. However, the Sun-Lava Trail takes you through the rugged volcanic landscapes and forests.

You can even stop at the Lava Lands Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s volcanic history. This trail also connects to other popular trails to extend your adventures.

Oak and Old Wagon Trail

Some of the best bike trails in Oregon are shorter than others but still worth a visit. Experience the old Oregon Wagon Trail. Many of us will remember the game Oregon Trail, and while this trail is not THE Oregon Trail, it is one of them.

You will see beautiful wildlife and scenery as you ride over asphalt, bridges, dirt paths, and boardwalks. This trail is well-maintained and is great for riders of all ages.

Portland River Loop Trail

One of the most popular destinations in Oregon is Portland. Portland, Oregon, has a river that goes through it, and you can ride alongside it for a 10.9-mile loop. The Portland River Loop Trail is popular amongst bikers, walkers, and runners.

The trail is easy for people of all ages and makes for a great morning or afternoon activity. You can even exit the trail for food at one of the many restaurants in Portland.

Oregon Timber Trail

Not all of the best bike trails in Oregon are paved; some of them take you completely off-roading. The Oregon Timber Trail is a mountain bike trail that combines singletrack, dirt, and gravel to your ride. The trail is separated into four segments.

You can do all four segments in one day or tackle them individually. There is a complete trail map so you can look ahead and plan your ride before you head out.

North Umpqua Trail

Another mountain biking trail in Oregon that should be noticed is the North Umpqua Trail. This trail is tucked away in a forest in Oregon that takes you away from civilization in the best ways possible. The trail is complete with mossy cliffsides, creeks, and waterfalls.

It is a trail you do not want to skip out on, even if you don’t make it the whole way.

ProLids on the Trail

Exploring the best bike trails in Oregon is a fun summer, fall, or spring activity. However, we should always have proper protection, regardless of our trail. ProLids helmets are designed to be fun for kids to wear and customize. They are perfect for any of the trails in Oregon and at home.