The best road cycling routes around The Gorge

There are over 400 road cycling routes in The Gorge, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, well-paved paths to challenging climbs with significant elevation gain.

Road cycling in The Gorge offers incredibly diverse terrain. You'll encounter dramatic cliffs, basalt rock walls, and historic tunnels. The landscape transitions from lush, mossy forests and abundant waterfalls in the western part to drier, arid grasslands in the east. Many routes provide stunning views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood.

Yes, The Gorge offers numerous easy routes, with 117 specifically categorized as easy. The Ironbridge to Much Wenlock loop – The Iron Bridge is a popular choice, featuring gentle gradients and scenic views. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is also renowned for its paved, car-free sections, ideal for a relaxed ride.

For those seeking a challenge, The Gorge has 40 difficult routes. The Wroxeter Roman Town House – View of the Iron Bridge loop from Broseley offers significant elevation gain. Routes like the Bridge of the Gods Ride and Larch Mountain Road are also known for their demanding ascents and rewarding views.

The Gorge is rich with natural beauty. You can experience the famous 'Waterfall Alley' with its numerous waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Latourell Falls. The Vista House at Crown Point offers panoramic views of the Columbia River. You'll also see dramatic basalt cliffs, the Columbia River itself, and often Mount Hood in the distance.

Yes, many routes in The Gorge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. The Neenton Village and Lily Pond – Royal Air Force Museum Cosford loop from Madeley is a great example, offering a mix of open fields and quiet village roads. The Hood River Fruit Loop is another popular option for a scenic circular ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning river views, dramatic cliffs, and the diverse ecological zones. The variety of routes, from car-free paths to challenging climbs, is also frequently highlighted.

Absolutely. A major highlight for cyclists is the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which includes paved, car-free sections. The 4.5-mile route through the Mosier Twin Tunnels, part of the original 1921 highway, is a fantastic car-free experience between Hood River and Mosier.

The Gorge offers road cycling opportunities year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular for their mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings lush greenery and full waterfalls, while fall showcases stunning foliage. Summer is also excellent, especially in the drier eastern parts, though some western sections can be busy.

Yes, especially in towns like Hood River, Mosier, and The Dalles, you'll find cafes, pubs, and fruit stands. The Hood River Fruit Loop, for instance, is specifically designed to showcase orchards, vineyards, and fruit stands, providing plenty of opportunities for refreshment stops.

Many road cycling routes throughout The Gorge provide spectacular views of Mount Hood. Routes around The Dalles and the Dee Highway and Mt. Hood Highway loop are particularly known for offering iconic vistas of this majestic peak.

While popular spots like the Historic Columbia River Highway can be busy, especially on weekends, exploring routes further east towards The Dalles or lesser-known loops like the Much Wenlock Town Centre – Bridgnorth Bridge loop from Broseley can offer a more tranquil experience. Early mornings or weekdays are also good for avoiding crowds on popular trails.