The best road cycling routes around The Dalles

There are 8 road cycling routes available around The Dalles. These include 1 easy, 4 moderate, and 3 difficult routes, offering options for various skill levels.

The Dalles, located in the 'rain shadow of Mt. Hood,' generally enjoys sunnier and drier weather compared to the western Gorge. This makes it conducive for road cycling for much of the year, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery.

Road cycling near The Dalles offers a diverse landscape, transitioning from the dramatic geological formations of the Columbia River Gorge to high desert terrain and rolling hills. You'll encounter stunning river views, picturesque cherry orchards, and distant mountains like Mount Hood and Mount Adams. Routes vary from flat riverside paths to challenging climbs with significant elevation changes.

Yes, beginners can enjoy easier routes like the Taylor Lake loop from The Dalles, which is 12.8 miles (20.6 km) long with minimal elevation gain. The Dalles Riverfront Trail, though not listed as a komoot route here, is also a well-known easy, paved option for leisurely rides along the Columbia River.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Memaloose Lookout – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Chenowith offer significant elevation gain over 46.9 miles (75.4 km). Another difficult option is the Klickitat Park loop from Lyle, which features varied terrain and challenging climbs over 31.5 miles (50.7 km).

Many routes offer breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge. A notable highlight is Rowena Crest, which provides panoramic vistas. Other points of interest include The Dalles Bridge View and Tooley Lake viewpoint. The Old Highway 8 Loop also offers great views of the Columbia River.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around The Dalles are loops, providing a continuous scenic experience. Examples include the popular Old Highway 8 Loop, the The Dalles Bridge View loop from The Dalles Dam, and the Taylor Lake loop from The Dalles.

For longer rides, the Old Highway 8 Loop covers 51.5 miles (82.9 km), and the Memaloose Lookout – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Chenowith is 46.9 miles (75.4 km). These routes offer extended time in the saddle with varied scenery and challenges.

For families, the easier, flatter routes are ideal. The Taylor Lake loop from The Dalles is a good option. Additionally, the Dalles Riverfront Trail (not a komoot route in this guide, but a local favorite) is a paved, car-free path perfect for all ages, offering easy access and scenic views along the Columbia River.

While road cycling itself isn't typically dog-friendly due to traffic and speed, some paved trails or less-trafficked sections might allow dogs on a leash. However, for the safety of your pet and other cyclists, it's generally recommended to leave dogs at home or seek out dedicated multi-use paths where they are explicitly permitted and can be safely managed.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads and public parks throughout The Dalles. For specific information on parking near the Columbia River, you might find resources on the Port of The Dalles website, which often lists access points and facilities.

The road cycling routes around The Dalles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the dramatic views of the Columbia River Gorge, and the unique blend of high desert and rolling orchard scenery that makes each ride memorable.