The best traffic-free bike rides around Bend

Komoot offers 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Bend. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 3 easy, 5 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring a suitable ride for most cyclists.

Bend's unique location offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find routes winding through the majestic Cascade Mountains with dramatic peaks and forests, as well as rides across high desert plains featuring rolling hills, ancient juniper trees, and volcanic rock formations. The Deschutes River also provides scenic routes along its banks and through its canyon.

Yes, Bend offers several family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes. Many of the paved multi-use paths within the city, such as those along the Old Mill District and Drake Park, are excellent for families. For a slightly longer ride, routes like the Shevlin Park – Tumalo Reservoir loop offer a moderate distance with minimal traffic, suitable for families with some cycling experience.

Bend's routes are rich with natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the Cascade Mountains, including the Three Sisters, from various points. Highlights include the View of Bend from Pilot Butte, or the View of the Three Sisters from Sizemore Road. You might also encounter volcanic features like those near Lava Butte, or stunning waterfalls such as Dillon Falls and Upper Falls — Deschutes River.

Bend's mild and dry weather for much of the year makes it ideal for cycling. Spring, summer, and early fall generally offer the most favorable conditions. Some higher elevation routes, like parts of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway or McKenzie Pass, may have seasonal closures due to snow, typically reopening in late spring or early summer.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Bend are designed as loops. For example, the Overturf Butte loop from Summit High School offers a moderate 30 km ride, and the Shevlin Park – Tumalo State Park loop provides a longer 57 km option, both starting and ending at the same point.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Bend, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20 ratings. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural scenery, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained routes that allow for peaceful, car-free or minimal-traffic rides.

While many routes focus on minimal traffic, some offer notable elevation gains. For instance, the Shevlin Park – Tumalo State Park loop includes over 630 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout on a route designed to keep you away from heavy vehicle traffic.

Many routes, especially those starting from within Bend, often have accessible parking. For routes like the Overturf Butte loop or the Shevlin Park – Tumalo Reservoir loop, starting points like Summit High School often provide convenient parking options. It's always advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking areas.

Bend's public transportation system, Cascades East Transit (CET), offers bus services that might get you close to some urban starting points or multi-use paths. However, for routes extending further into rural areas or national forests, public transport access might be limited. Cyclists often combine public transport with short rides to reach trailheads.

Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on the public roads and designated bike paths around Bend. However, if your route takes you into specific state parks or national monuments, there might be day-use fees for vehicle entry or parking. Always check the regulations for any specific park or monument you plan to visit.

For experienced riders seeking a longer, no-traffic challenge, the Shevlin Park – Tumalo State Park loop from Summit High School is a great option. At nearly 58 km with over 630 meters of climbing, it offers a substantial ride through varied landscapes while minimizing encounters with vehicle traffic.