The best traffic-free bike rides in Wasco County
4.6
(15)
507
riders
13
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Wasco County traverse a diverse landscape, from the dramatic Columbia River Gorge to expansive rolling wheat fields and high-desert plateaus. The region features significant elevation changes, offering both challenging climbs and rewarding descents for cyclists. Many routes provide views of Mount Hood and follow sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway, including the paved Mosier Twin Tunnels Trail. This varied terrain ensures a range of scenic experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
5.0
(3)
47
riders
65.5km
04:21
970m
970m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
riders
28.6km
02:07
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
32
riders
53.7km
03:31
750m
750m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
71.0km
05:51
1,340m
1,340m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
8
riders
32.4km
02:50
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Mosier is a charming small town along the beautiful Columbia River, surrounded by stunning basalt cliffs. There are lovely restaurants, a cozy coffee shop and a small local market.
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About 50 feet off the highway, the pavement takes riders to an overlook of the Memaloose Hills, called the Memaloose Lookout. Memaloose Overlook has a viewpoint of Memaloose Island and is a great photo opportunity, especially on a clear day.
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Mosier is named after Jonah H. Mosier, who settled the area around 1821. Today, it is best known for apple, cherry, and prune production, and the town is only about 400 acres in size.
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Look northward toward the Colombia River Gorge to see a separate lake called Tooley Lake sandwiched between the highway and the Colombia River. Tule Lake is fed by the Lost River, and at an elevation of 4,035 feet, this lake is popular for fishing.
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Walk or bike through tunnels built for the original Columbia River Highway. These unique tunnels have windows and are a car-free section of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. This area is great for bikers and walkers alike.
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The Rowena Crest is an impressive viewpoint for cyclists and drivers and has a trailhead. On the Historic Columbia River Highway, you can look down on Mayer State Park and the Columbia River Gorge. Riders will see the iconic Rowena Loops they just came up with and can be impressed on their efforts climbing the horseshoe curves that wind up and down. On a clear day, look south to see Mt. Hood.
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A great paved route and, above all, an absolute historical highlight. We walked and cycled back and forth several times because we found the route breathtakingly beautiful.
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This section of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is loved for its great views of the Columbia River and the restored Mosier Twin Tunnels. The tunnels were filled with rocks when the interstate was open to replace the highway, but luckily it was possible to restore and reopen the tunnels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available 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.
What is the easiest no-traffic touring cycling route for beginners in Wasco County?
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.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
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.
What natural features can I expect to see along these routes?
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.
Are there any specific attractions or landmarks along the no-traffic routes?
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.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Wasco County?
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.
Are there any loop routes available for no-traffic touring cycling?
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.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Wasco County?
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.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites?
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.
Where can I find views of Mount Hood along these routes?
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.
Are there any routes suitable for families with children?
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.
Most popular routes in Wasco County
Most popular attractions in Wasco County
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