Triangle Hill & 4606 Road loop from Phil's Trailhead

The suitability of this loop for touring cycling largely depends on your bike. While NF Road 4606 is a wide cinder road, many trails in the broader Phil's Trail system are singletrack with rocky, loose, or sandy sections. A touring bicycle with wider, more robust tires, like a gravel bike or mountain touring bike, would be best. Traditional road touring bikes with narrow tires would find it very challenging.

You'll encounter a mix of terrain. The route includes NF Road 4606, which is described as a wide cinder road. However, other sections within the Phil's Trail system can be singletrack, rocky, loose, and sandy, sometimes developing 'moon dust' conditions late in the season. You'll ride through forests dense with Ponderosa pines and Manzanita bushes, offering a scenic mix of pine forests, open meadows, and classic high desert scenery.

This loop starts from Phil's Trailhead, a renowned mountain biking hub. You'll pass through scenic areas like Shevlin Park and ride alongside Tumalo Creek. The landscape offers beautiful views of pine forests, open meadows, and high desert scenery.

Yes, the route intersects and utilizes sections of several other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway, Discovery Trail, Mrazek Trail, Discovery West Trail, West Bend Trail, Tumalo Creek Trail, Jack Pine Spring Road, and Triangle Hill Road, among others.

The loop originates from Phil's Trailhead, which is a very popular starting point. Parking is available there, but as it's one of the most popular trailheads in the Pacific Northwest, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is generally favorable. Late season can bring 'moon dust' conditions on some trails. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Deschutes National Forest. However, they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out any waste.

While there isn't typically an entrance fee for general access to Deschutes National Forest, some specific areas or trailheads may require a recreation pass (like a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass) for parking. It's always a good idea to check the USDA Forest Service website for the most current information regarding passes or permits for the Phil's Trailhead area.

Given the varied terrain and potential for technical sections, it's wise to pack essentials for mountain biking, even on a touring bike. This includes plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (patch kit, pump, spare tube), appropriate layers for changing weather, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. A helmet is essential, and gloves are recommended for comfort and grip.

The overall difficulty of this loop is rated as 'difficult' due to its length, elevation gain, and the nature of the terrain. While the broader Phil's Trail system has sections suitable for various skill levels, this specific loop, especially for touring cyclists, might be too challenging for younger children or beginner riders. There are other more beginner-friendly and family-friendly trails within Deschutes National Forest if you're looking for an easier ride.

Phil's Trailhead is located just outside Bend, Oregon. While there aren't cafes or pubs directly at the trailhead, the city of Bend offers a wide variety of dining options, breweries, and coffee shops just a short drive away. It's a great place to refuel after your ride.