Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway

The Twin Bridges Loop is best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the views of the Cascade Mountains are clear. While it's accessible year-round, be mindful of potential snow or ice in winter and hot temperatures in mid-summer.

The route conveniently starts and ends in downtown Bend, often from historic Drake Park. You'll find various public parking options available in the downtown area, providing easy access to the bikeway.

The Twin Bridges Loop is generally rated as 'moderate' or 'casual'. It's best suited for cyclists who ride regularly due to its length (approximately 36 miles or 58.5 km) and rolling terrain with some elevation changes. Absolute beginners might find it challenging, but experienced road cyclists and e-bike riders will likely find it more manageable.

The bikeway is entirely paved, offering a smooth ride. You'll encounter rolling terrain with a few climbs and descents, particularly when traversing the Tumalo Creek and Deschutes River canyons. The route includes urban streets with bike lanes in Bend and low-traffic rural roads. Be aware of potential farm equipment on rural sections.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway. It is a public route accessible to all cyclists.

The route offers continuous views of the Cascade Mountains and diverse landscapes. You'll pass through Shevlin Park, cross the Deschutes River twice (giving the bikeway its name), and ride through the charming town of Tumalo, which offers amenities like brew pubs and food carts. Near the start/end, you can find places like Bend Brewing Company. There's also a dedicated Twin Bridges resting area & bike aid station.

The average duration for touring cycling the Twin Bridges Loop is around 3 hours and 30 minutes, though this can vary based on your pace, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or amenities. The total distance is approximately 56.9 kilometers (35.4 miles).

While the bikeway itself is a paved road route, dogs are generally allowed on leash in public areas like parks and along roadsides. However, it's important to check specific regulations for any parks or private properties you might pass through, such as Shevlin Park, and always practice Leave No Trace principles.

As an official Oregon Scenic Bikeway, the route is well-maintained and signed, particularly for clockwise riding. However, supplementary navigation using maps or a GPS device is highly recommended to ensure you stay on track and explore confidently.

Yes, while the Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway makes up the vast majority of the route, it also briefly intersects with other paths such as the Deschutes River Trail, Tumalo Creek Trail, and Discovery Trail in various sections.

Riding the loop in a clockwise direction is generally recommended as the signage is optimized for this flow. Be mindful of farm equipment on rural road sections. Starting and ending in downtown Bend's historic Drake Park provides easy access to parking and post-ride dining options. Consider stopping in Tumalo for a break and refreshments.