There are so many great routes in Bend Oregon but sometimes you want to stray a little farther for something new. Oakridge, Oregon, is a hidden gem for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering a plethora of trails that cater to riders of all skill levels and is only 1.5hrs from Bend. Here are some of the notable mountain bike trails in the Oakridge area:
- Alpine Trail: Considered one of the premier mountain bike trails in the region, Alpine Trail offers an epic 20-mile descent through old-growth forests, meadows, and alpine scenery. It’s a challenging ride with technical sections, rocky terrain, and fast descents.
- Middle Fork Trail: This trail follows the Middle Fork of the Willamette River and offers a scenic ride through lush forests and alongside crystal-clear streams. It’s a relatively gentle trail with some technical sections, making it suitable for intermediate riders.
- Larison Rock Trail: Known for its panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and the Willamette Valley, Larison Rock Trail is a challenging singletrack with steep climbs and technical descents. The effort is rewarded with stunning vistas from the summit.
- Lawler Trail: This trail is a local favorite known for its flowy descent and technical features. It offers a mix of fast, bermed sections and rocky, technical terrain, providing a thrilling ride for intermediate to advanced riders.
- Tire Mountain Trail: Located in the nearby Willamette National Forest, Tire Mountain Trail offers a scenic loop ride through dense forests and open meadows. It’s a moderate trail with some technical sections and occasional steep climbs.
- Salmon Creek Trail: This trail follows the beautiful Salmon Creek and offers a mix of technical challenges and scenic beauty. It’s a moderate to difficult ride with rocky sections and stream crossings, suitable for intermediate riders looking for an adventure.
- Dead Mountain Trail: Another trail in the nearby Willamette National Forest, Dead Mountain Trail offers a challenging ride through remote wilderness areas. It features steep climbs, technical descents, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
These are just a few examples of the many mountain bike trails available in the Oakridge area. With its diverse terrain and stunning scenery, Oakridge offers endless opportunities for mountain biking adventures.
The best way to ride Oakridge, because of the steep punchy vertical, is to hire a shuttle bike service. Checkout Cogwild Shuttle Service and Trans Cascadia Shuttles for great mountain bike shuttling options.
