The best traffic-free bike rides in Wasco County

There are 13 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Wasco County, offering a variety of experiences across the region's diverse landscapes.

For an easy and accessible ride, consider the Taylor Lake loop from The Dalles. This route covers just under 19 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed outing.

Yes, Wasco County offers several challenging routes. The Memaloose Lookout – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Columbia Gorge Discovery Center is a difficult 61 km ride with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience for advanced touring cyclists.

Wasco County's no-traffic routes showcase the stunning Columbia River Gorge, expansive rolling wheat fields, and high-desert plateaus. You'll encounter breathtaking viewpoints like Rowena Crest and Memaloose Lookout, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River and distant glimpses of Mount Hood.

Many routes incorporate significant landmarks. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, including the Twin Tunnels Segment, is a highlight. You can also visit the Memaloose Lookout, which is featured on several loops, and the Tom McCall Preserve summit at Rowena Crest, known for its wildflowers in late spring.

Late spring (late May/early June) is particularly beautiful, especially around the Rowena Crest area when wildflowers are in bloom. Summer offers warm, dry conditions, but be mindful of potential heat and lack of shade on some high-desert sections. Fall provides cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops. For example, the Mosier, Oregon – Memaloose Lookout loop from Mosier offers a scenic circular journey, allowing you to start and end in the same location without retracing your path.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Wasco County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, the peacefulness of the car-free sections like the Twin Tunnels, and the diverse landscapes ranging from riverfront to high-desert plateaus.

Yes, Wasco County is rich in history. The Free Bridge Historical Site loop from Gordon Cliffs is a moderate route that takes you past a significant historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the region's past while enjoying a peaceful ride.

Many routes throughout Wasco County offer distant or panoramic views of Mount Hood, especially on clear days. The Rowena Crest viewpoint, accessible on several routes, is particularly known for its impressive vistas that often include Mount Hood.

While many routes involve significant distances and elevation, the paved sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, such as the Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail, are generally flat and car-free, making them suitable for families looking for a safer, more relaxed cycling experience.