The best traffic-free bike rides in Washington County

This moderate 10.7-mile (17.2 km) bike loop around Henry Hagg Lake, with 662 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, offers a scenic ride that typically takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes. You'll pedal through a beautiful mix of open meadows and wooded areas, with constant views of the lake and the Oregon Coast Range mountains. The route provides options for both a smooth paved road experience and a more adventurous multi-use dirt and gravel trail, catering to different cycling preferences.

Before you go, remember there's a parking fee to enter Scoggins Valley Park, which is open from sunrise to sunset year-round. If you plan to tackle the multi-use trail, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions during winter. Also, e-bikes are not allowed on the multi-use trail, so plan accordingly. Arriving early can offer the bonus of a stunning sunrise over the water.

Beyond cycling, Scoggins Valley Park is a hub for diverse recreational activities, including two boat launching facilities, an 18-hole disc golf course, and numerous picnic areas. The loop format of the bike route, combined with multiple access points, makes it easy to customize your ride length or explore other park amenities. It's a great option for those seeking varied outdoor experiences in Washington County, Oregon.

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail loop from Manning offers a delightful touring cycling adventure through Oregon's scenic countryside. You'll pedal along a smooth, paved path, winding through forested hills, open glades, and past babbling streams, with the impressive Buxton Trestle providing a memorable highlight. The route is generally easy to moderate, making it accessible for many, but includes a notable climb on the Horseshoe Trestle bypass that adds a bit of a challenge.

Starting your ride from the Manning trailhead is straightforward, as it provides convenient parking and restrooms. The trail is car-free and well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable option for families. While you can ride it year-round, visiting during the spring or fall offers the best weather and most vibrant natural colors. Consider an early start on weekends to avoid crowds.

This trail holds the distinction of being Oregon's first rails-to-trails park, repurposing an old timber railway corridor. It's rich in history, featuring several bridges and trestles, and even passes through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, which offers additional amenities and trail connections. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and various bird species as you cycle through this diverse landscape.

The Banks Vernonia State Trail – Banks-Vernonia State Trail loop from Buxton offers a diverse touring cycling experience, transitioning from open agricultural fields to the shaded, thickly-forested foothills of the Coast Range. You'll ride primarily on a paved, eight-foot-wide path, enjoying the gentle grade of an old railroad bed, but keep an eye out for the impressive Buxton Trestle, an 80-foot-high structure providing panoramic views. The route is generally accessible, though some sections have uneven surfaces due to roots, and a notable bypass near the Tophill Trailhead features short, steep switchbacks.

This moderate 23.2-mile (37.3 km) route, with 1256 feet (383 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 19 minutes, is best started from the Buxton trailhead, which provides parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. While the paved trail is more commonly ridden as an out-and-back, the listed loop offers a substantial ride. Cyclists should be prepared for multi-use sections and potential unevenness, especially around mile 5. Consider visiting during milder weather for the most comfortable ride.

As Oregon's first 'rails-to-trails' park, this route is rich in historical significance, following a corridor once used for timber and passenger transport. It connects to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, offering additional amenities and separate mountain biking trails for those looking to extend their adventure. The trail's design, with its gentle 2% to 5% grade for much of its length, makes it a popular cycling route for various skill levels, despite the challenging switchbacks in one section.