The best cycling routes in Lane County

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle loop along the Middlefork Willamette Path from Coburg, a journey spanning 27.2 miles (43.9 km). This route offers a pleasant experience as you cycle through diverse scenery, from peaceful wooded areas to wide-open fields. You will gain 401 feet (122 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 2 hours and 32 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the picturesque views of the Middle Fork of the Willamette River.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is generally easy and well-maintained, making it accessible for most cyclists. You will find convenient amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and drinking water at trailheads such as Clear Water Park and Landing. While the route is mostly paved, be aware of brief sections where you will share the road in on-street bicycle lanes.

This loop is notable for its blend of natural beauty and urban connectivity, linking you to significant spots like Maurie Jacobs Park and the Frohnmayer Bridge. Keep an eye out for various bird species along the river, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of your ride. The trail provides a great opportunity to explore the local landscape and connect with nature near Coburg.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Willamette River Bank loop, a paved route offering picturesque views through Eugene, Oregon. This gentle 7.8-mile (12.6 km) journey involves a minimal elevation gain of just 88 feet (27 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 43 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere as you cycle past green spaces and the flowing river. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as Canada geese and blue herons, and take in the scenery around landmarks like the Peter DeFazio Bridge.

For a convenient start to your ride, head to Maurie Jacobs Park, which functions as a full-service trailhead. This park provides amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, making it an excellent choice for parking and accessing the route. The Willamette River Bank loop is part of the larger Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System, so you will find numerous access points and facilities available along the way.

This route offers a delightful escape into nature right within the city, showcasing the natural beauty of the Willamette River. The path winds through diverse scenery, providing continuous river views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It is a prime example of how Eugene integrates green spaces and recreational paths, allowing you to experience the city's commitment to outdoor activity and natural preservation.

Embark on the Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway, a difficult touring bicycle route that challenges you with 4056 feet (1236 metres) of elevation gain over 42.8 miles (68.8 km). This journey, typically completed in 4 hours and 46 minutes, winds through the lush Siuslaw National Forest, offering a dynamic landscape of rugged terrain and frequent ascents. You will experience vast ocean views, encounter towering basalt sea stacks, and pass through sandy beaches, all while cycling past iconic landmarks like the Heceta Head Lighthouse Viewpoint.

When planning your ride, be aware that sections of the route require you to share the lane with vehicle traffic, particularly over older bridges. Tunnels, such as the Cape Creek tunnel, may also present challenges as they often lack shoulders, meaning you will need to ride alongside cars and trucks. This route is best suited for touring cyclists who are comfortable navigating these conditions and sharing the road with vehicles.

The Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway offers a unique blend of natural beauty and coastal charm, connecting you with the dramatic Pacific coastline and its diverse ecosystems. As you pedal, you will discover the distinctive character of the region, from its ancient forests to its rugged shorelines, and pass through several charming coastal communities that add to the experience.

Embark on the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, a moderate touring cycling route that guides you through the picturesque countryside around Cottage Grove. You will pedal 28.9 miles (46.5 km) with a total elevation gain of 1063 feet (324 metres), passing through charming farm country and alongside the placid waters of Dorena Lake. The journey, which takes about 2 hours and 48 minutes, offers diverse scenery and a relaxed pace.

To begin your ride, head to the historic town of Cottage Grove, where you will find convenient parking and amenities. Much of the route follows paved, traffic-free paths like the Row River Trail, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Be aware that some sections do share the road with low-traffic vehicles, including occasional logging trucks, so stay alert.

The highlight of this bikeway is undoubtedly its collection of historic covered bridges, which give the route its name. You will encounter several of these unique structures, including the Chambers Railroad Covered Bridge. This particular bridge holds a special distinction as the only one of its kind still standing west of the Mississippi, making it a truly notable landmark on your ride.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle ride through Eugene's diverse landscapes with the McKenzie 3 River loop. This 26.8-mile (43.1 km) route, which takes approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete, offers a blend of urban scenery and natural riverbanks. You will gain 503 feet (153 metres) in elevation as you cycle through downtown Eugene, past quiet suburbs, and into peaceful woods. The trail follows the Willamette River for several miles, crosses the notable Peter DeFazio Bridge, and provides occasional glimpses of the McKenzie River. It's a journey that connects you with three distinct waterways, offering a refreshing perspective on the city and its surroundings.

The McKenzie 3 River loop conveniently begins at the Amtrak station in downtown Eugene, making it an excellent choice if you are arriving by public transport. This central starting point allows for easy access to the route. While the trail is generally accessible year-round, it is always wise to check local weather forecasts before you set out. Pay particular attention to conditions during winter months, as snow, ice, or heavy rain could affect your ride. Planning your visit during milder weather will ensure a more enjoyable touring bicycle experience.

This route truly lives up to its name by connecting you with the Willamette, McKenzie, and Mohawk rivers, offering a unique opportunity to experience Eugene's aquatic environment. You will cycle along the banks of the Willamette River for the initial five miles, immersing yourself in the riverside atmosphere. The journey provides a diverse ride through both urban and natural settings, showcasing the city's blend of development and preserved green spaces. It's an ideal way to explore the area's waterways and enjoy a substantial touring bicycle adventure.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Middle Fork Path, a pleasant route spanning 8.5 miles (13.7 km). You will gain a gentle 119 feet (36 metres) of elevation, making for a relaxed journey that typically takes around 51 minutes. As you pedal, you will follow the scenic Middle Fork of the Willamette River, enjoying views of the water and surrounding natural environment. The path winds through both wooded sections and open fields, offering a varied landscape. Keep an eye out for the historic Dorris Ranch with its filbert orchards as you pass by.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Middle Fork Path offers convenient amenities. You will find restrooms, ample parking, and helpful information kiosks located at both ends of the trail. These facilities are available at Dorris Ranch and Clearwater Park, ensuring easy access for your touring cycling adventure. Consider starting your ride from either of these points for a smooth experience.

This multi-use path provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of central Oregon. Beyond the filbert orchards, you will also encounter Clearwater Park, which offers direct access to the river and additional amenities. Benches are strategically placed along the route, inviting you to pause, relax, and perhaps spot some local birdlife. The Middle Fork Path is ideal for a leisurely outing, connecting you with nature and local history.

Embark on the North Bank Path & McKenzie View Drive loop from Bethel for a moderate touring bicycle adventure. This route spans 29.6 miles (47.6 km) and includes a manageable elevation gain of 548 feet (167 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 46 minutes. You will cycle through a pleasant blend of urban parkland and natural riverfront, with the trail winding through Alton Baker Park and alongside the Willamette River, offering scenic views, especially near the Peter DeFazio Bridge.

When planning your visit, note that this touring cycling route is generally suitable for all skill levels, though its length does require good fitness. While the path is mostly paved, be ready for some potentially unpaved segments that could add a bit more challenge to your ride. Parking is usually available at various access points within the Bethel-Springfield area, making it convenient to start your journey.

This loop offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes of the region, from the tranquility of riverbanks to the structured beauty of parkland. The route's design allows you to enjoy the natural environment of the Willamette River without venturing too far from urban conveniences. It's a great option for those looking for a substantial ride that combines natural beauty with accessible terrain.

Embark on the Jetty to Jetty loop, a moderate touring cycling route that guides you through the scenic Oregon coast. This journey spans 24.3 miles (39.1 km) with a gentle 656 feet (200 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 21 minutes. You will cycle past the iconic Art Deco Siuslaw River Bridge, offering captivating views of the river, expansive dunes, and the charm of Old Town Florence.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as Florence is a community that welcomes cyclists. You will find marked trails and dedicated bike lanes along much of the route, making navigation simple. While the path is largely paved, be aware that some segments might be unpaved, adding a touch of variety to your ride. Convenient parking areas are available, particularly near the South Jetty, providing easy access to begin your adventure.

The route also takes you to the North Jetty and Heceta Beach, where you can pause to watch the powerful waves crash against the shore and take in the vast coastal vistas. A significant highlight is experiencing the unique landscape of the Oregon Dunes, which stands as the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes across North America. This loop offers a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the diverse natural beauty of the Florence, Oregon coast.

Prepare for a challenging touring bicycle adventure on the Oakridge to Hills Creek Reservoir loop, a difficult route covering 30.8 miles (49.6 km). You will gain 2896 feet (883 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 37 minutes. As you cycle, you will experience a mix of paved and gravel sections, offering varied terrain and spectacular views of the water and dense forest, particularly along the east side of Hills Creek Reservoir.

When planning your visit, be aware that the route includes a notable gravel section on Forest Road 2118, located on the east side of Hills Creek Reservoir. While generally in good condition, you might encounter rock slide debris and erosion damage in a couple of spots, especially around miles 15-16. Oakridge provides convenient amenities such as public bathrooms and a bike washing station near the reservoir, and local bike shops are available for advice or repairs.

This loop takes you through the rugged mountain country of the Willamette National Forest. Keep an eye out for a unique section where giant trees, hanging moss, and dense foliage create an enchanted forest feel, with sunlight filtering through the canopy. You may also spot wildlife like bald eagles and loons around the reservoir, adding to the natural beauty of your ride.