The best gravel rides in Multnomah County

Multnomah County offers a diverse range of gravel biking terrain. You'll find extensive gravel and crushed rock roads, particularly within Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Routes also feature scenic river corridors along the Willamette River and sections of the dramatic Columbia River Gorge, providing varied landscapes from dense woodlands to open views.

While many routes in Multnomah County are rated as difficult, there are options suitable for those seeking a more moderate challenge. For instance, the Springwater Corridor – Powell Butte loop from Southeast Holgate Boulevard is a moderate 12.9-mile ride that takes you through urban green spaces and offers views from Powell Butte.

Multnomah County's gravel routes offer access to several scenic points. You can find stunning views from Viewpoint in Powell Butte Nature Park, or experience the dramatic vistas from Chanticleer Point and View from Angel's Rest in the Columbia River Gorge area. Some routes also offer glimpses of Mount Hood from Rocky Butte.

For families looking for a less strenuous ride, consider routes that utilize sections of the Springwater Corridor or paths within urban parks. These often have gentler grades and are well-maintained. The Springwater Corridor – Powell Butte loop from Southeast Holgate Boulevard, for example, is a moderate option that could be suitable for families with some biking experience.

Multnomah County offers year-round accessibility for gravel biking. The dense canopy of Forest Park provides a beautiful setting, especially during the autumn months when fall foliage enhances the riding experience. Spring and summer offer pleasant temperatures, while winter rides are possible, though conditions may vary.

Yes, many gravel biking options in Multnomah County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Northwest Leif Erikson Drive – Leif Erikson Drive loop from Forest Park, which offers a substantial ride within the urban forest.

Yes, you can find several gravel routes around the 20-mile mark. The Springwater Corridor – Powell Butte loop from Southeast Holgate Boulevard is just under 13 miles, while the Leif Erikson Drive – Northwest Leif Erikson Drive loop from Providence Park offers a moderate 17.3-mile ride, providing a good option for a shorter, yet engaging, gravel experience.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from the extensive trails in Forest Park to the scenic river views, and the accessibility of these natural landscapes close to the city.

Absolutely. The Willamette River flows through Multnomah County, and several gravel paths and trails run alongside it. The Willamette River view – Springwater Corridor loop from Southeast Bybee Boulevard is a prime example, offering extensive views of the river and connecting various scenic sections of the Springwater Corridor.

Many of Multnomah County's gravel biking areas, especially those closer to Portland like Forest Park and the Springwater Corridor, are accessible via public transport. You can often find trailheads or starting points within reasonable distance of bus or MAX light rail stops, making it convenient to reach routes without a car.

Yes, Multnomah County offers plenty of challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. The majority of the routes in the area are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and longer distances. For example, the View of Cornelius Pass – Northwest Rock Creek Road loop from Linnton is a demanding 46.3-mile ride with over 1300 meters of elevation gain.

Key areas for gravel biking include Forest Park, known for its extensive network of gravel firelanes like Leif Erikson Drive. The Columbia River Gorge also offers challenging backroads, and urban green spaces like Powell Butte Nature Park provide additional options. Sauvie Island to the north also presents opportunities for less-trafficked gravel roads.