Todd Lake loop from Todd Creek Trailhead

If you're looking for a rewarding mountain biking route that balances effort with stunning scenery, the Todd Lake loop from Todd Creek Trailhead is a solid choice. This moderate 16.4-mile (26.4 km) route packs in 1888 feet (576 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It's an excellent option for riders ready for a decent workout who want to experience the beauty of the Central Oregon Cascades, making it one of the more engaging Todd Lake loop mountain biking routes.

What to expect on Todd Lake loop from Todd Creek Trailhead

Expect a journey through diverse landscapes as you circle Todd Lake, a beautiful glacial lake. The trail offers picturesque views, with occasional glimpses of iconic peaks like Broken Top and Mount Bachelor. You'll ride through alpine meadows and fir forests, encountering mostly singletrack terrain. While the overall difficulty is moderate, the 1888 feet of climbing means you'll earn those views. It's a great route for mountain bikers looking to push themselves a bit while enjoying classic Cascade scenery and discovering new Todd Lake loop mountain biking landmarks and viewpoints.

Planning your visit

Planning your visit is straightforward, but a few things to note. You'll need a recreation pass for parking at the Todd Lake Day Use Area/Trailhead, so be sure to secure that beforehand. This specific loop does not require a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit, unlike some other trails in the area. The best time of year for Todd Lake loop mountain biking is generally when the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is fully open and snow-free, typically from late spring through early fall. While access to the trailhead is usually good, be aware that roads further past the gate in the broader Todd Lake area can be rough and might require a high-clearance vehicle.

Trail details

• Distance: 16.4 miles (26.4 km)
• Elevation gain: 1888 feet (576 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 40 minutes