The best cycling routes in Deschutes National Forest

Deschutes National Forest offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 130 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy rides to challenging ascents through diverse landscapes.

Yes, there are over 60 easy touring cycling routes in Deschutes National Forest. A great option for beginners is the Benham Falls via Lava-Benham Trail loop, which is 16.5 miles (26.6 km) long and showcases volcanic landscapes and waterfalls along the Deschutes River with minimal elevation gain.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Deschutes National Forest has over 35 difficult routes. The McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway is a notable option, a 30.2-mile (48.6 km) trail that traverses lava fields and dense forests with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Deschutes National Forest are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway Loop, a 65.2-mile (104.9 km) journey through diverse Central Oregon landscapes, and the moderate Deschutes River Trail: Dillon and Benham Falls Loop.

Deschutes National Forest is rich in natural beauty. Along the routes, you can encounter stunning waterfalls like Upper Paulina Falls and Dillon Falls. The area also features numerous picturesque lakes such as Todd Lake and the Green Lakes, often accessible via scenic byways or trails.

The forest is shaped by volcanic activity, so you'll find unique features like the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which includes Lava Butte and the Big Obsidian Flow. The Cascade Mountains provide a stunning backdrop with peaks like the Three Sisters and Mount Bachelor, offering breathtaking views from various points along the routes.

The best time for touring cycling in Deschutes National Forest is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and most trails are free of snow, allowing access to the diverse landscapes from river valleys to higher elevations.

Yes, Deschutes National Forest offers several family-friendly cycling options. Paved trails within areas like the Crooked River Wetlands Complex provide safe and scenic routes suitable for all ages. The Lower Deschutes River Trail also offers gentle gradients, making it ideal for a relaxed family outing.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from volcanic landscapes and river valleys to dense forests, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels. The stunning natural beauty and well-maintained trails are frequently highlighted.

Yes, several routes offer views of waterfalls. The Benham Falls via Lava-Benham Trail loop, for instance, showcases Benham Falls. Other notable waterfalls in the region include Tumalo Falls and Upper Falls — Deschutes River, which can be accessed or viewed from various trails.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads and access points throughout Deschutes National Forest. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local forest service websites. Many popular routes, like those around Benham Falls, have designated parking areas.

While many routes are suitable for day trips, some, like the Lower Deschutes River Trail, offer options for longer, even overnight, routes extending up to 50 miles. The Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway Loop is also a substantial 65.2-mile (104.9 km) route that can be part of a multi-day adventure, allowing you to explore more of Central Oregon's diverse landscapes.