The best cycling routes in Lane County

The Middlefork Willamette Path loop from Coburg offers a serene touring cycling experience, guiding you along the scenic Middle Fork Willamette River. You'll pedal through a pleasant mix of wooded sections and open fields, with views of reclaimed pastures and oak savannahs. The smooth, paved surface and gentle terrain make it an ideal route for a relaxed ride, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty and spot local wildlife.

This moderate 27.2 miles (43.9 km) loop involves a modest 401 feet (122 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. Free parking, restrooms, and information kiosks are readily available at trailheads like Clearwater Park. The path is generally less crowded, making it a great option for a peaceful outing, particularly enjoyable during the milder seasons.

Beyond its natural charm, the Middlefork Willamette Path connects to a broader riverfront network, offering extended cycling possibilities. It's a fantastic choice for families or casual cyclists seeking an accessible route with a blend of natural beauty and historical interest, such as the nearby Dorris Ranch, known for its filbert orchards.

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.

The Willamette River Bank loop offers a delightful and accessible touring cycling experience right in Eugene. This easy route follows the Willamette River, treating you to continuous river views as it meanders through green spaces and riparian forests. You'll glide past landmarks like Maurie Jacobs Park and the Peter DeFazio Bridge, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife like Canada geese and blue herons.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the loop is predominantly paved and flat, making it suitable for all skill levels. With only 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain over 7.8 miles (12.6 km), you can expect a relaxed 43-minute journey. Maurie Jacobs Park is a great starting point, offering amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.

This loop is a key part of the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System, an extensive network of multi-use paths connecting Eugene and Springfield. It's not just for recreation; it also serves as an important alternative transportation route, linking neighborhoods and commercial areas. The system's five pedestrian/bicycle bridges allow for various loop options, letting you customize your ride length and exploration.

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.

If you're looking for a touring cycling route that offers a bit of everything, the McKenzie 3 River loop from Amtrak Station is a fantastic choice. This moderate 26.8-mile (43.1 km) ride, with 503 feet (153 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 29 minutes, takes you from urban riverfronts to quiet country roads. You'll follow the Willamette River, cross the McKenzie River, and wind through forested foothills and farmland, experiencing a diverse slice of the Willamette Valley.

Planning your ride is straightforward, especially since the route conveniently starts at the Eugene Amtrak Station, making it ideal for those arriving by public transport. While the trail is generally accessible year-round, it's always wise to check the weather, as Oregon can be rainy, and winter conditions might include snow or ice. The established roadways are mostly quiet, but keep an eye out for blind corners.

What sets this loop apart is its ability to combine three distinct rivers—the Willamette, McKenzie, and Mohawk—with urban landscapes and natural beauty, all within a manageable distance. Unlike the more technical McKenzie River Trail, this route is designed for touring cyclists, offering a comprehensive taste of the region's environments without needing extensive travel to a trailhead. Don't miss the Peter DeFazio Bridge and the Simpsons Springfield Mural along the way.

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.

The Jetty to Jetty loop offers a captivating touring cycling experience along the Oregon coast, blending scenic beauty with a manageable challenge. You'll pedal past the impressive Art Deco Siuslaw River Bridge, offering stunning river views, and then immerse yourself in the vast, unique landscape of the Oregon Dunes. The route also takes you to North Jetty and Heceta Beach, where you can witness the raw power of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the shore, providing a dynamic backdrop to your ride.

This moderate 24.3-mile (39.1 km) cycling route features a gentle elevation gain of 656 feet (200 metres) and typically takes around 2 hours and 21 minutes to complete. Florence is a bike-friendly community, so you'll find marked trails and dedicated bike lanes along much of the way, making it easy to navigate. It's a great option for a half-day adventure, suitable for most touring cyclists looking for a rewarding coastal ride.

Beyond the jettiess, this loop connects with significant portions of the Oregon Coast Trail and the Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway, offering opportunities to extend your adventure. The route provides a fantastic overview of Florence's coastal charm, from its historic Old Town to the dramatic natural features of the dunes and beaches. It's a prime example of the diverse and accessible cycling available in this part of Oregon.

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.