The best road cycling routes around Tumalo

There are 18 road cycling routes around Tumalo, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 8 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, catering to various skill levels.

Road cycling around Tumalo offers a varied landscape. You'll encounter continuous views of the Cascade Mountains, high-desert terrain, hobby farms, and hay fields. Routes often follow the picturesque Deschutes River and Tumalo Creek, transitioning into pine forests with ponderosa pines and junipers. The topography includes generally level sections with some climbs in and out of river canyons.

Yes, Tumalo offers several easy routes suitable for families or those seeking a relaxed ride. For instance, the Drake Park – Bend Brewing Company loop from Bend is an easy 19.5-mile (31.4 km) trail that leads through urban and riverside areas. Another great option is the Drake Park – Farewell Bend Park loop from Bend, which is 16.3 miles (26.3 km) and also rated easy.

The best time for road cycling in Tumalo is generally from spring through fall. The region experiences pleasant weather during these seasons, making for ideal riding conditions. While some routes may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, especially with potential snow or ice at higher elevations or during colder periods.

Many routes in Tumalo offer stunning views. You'll frequently enjoy continuous vistas of the Cascade Mountains. For specific attractions, consider routes that pass near Drake Park or Shevlin Park. The Shevlin Park – Tumalo State Park loop from Les Schwab Tire Headquarters connects these two prominent parks, traversing varied landscapes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Tumalo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable example is the Deschutes River Bridge – Benham Falls loop from Bend, a challenging 56.8-mile (91.5 km) route offering extensive views along the Deschutes River.

The road cycling routes in Tumalo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the continuous Cascade Mountain vistas, the diverse high-desert and riverside terrain, and the well-maintained routes that cater to various ability levels.

While Tumalo itself is a smaller community, many routes connect to or pass through Bend, which offers numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Tumalo also serves as a good stopping point on longer routes like the Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway before the final climbs back to Bend.

The longest road cycling route listed is the Deschutes River Bridge – Benham Falls loop from Bend, which spans 56.8 miles (91.5 km) and is rated as difficult. It offers extensive views along the Deschutes River.

Yes, the Tumalo State Park – Shevlin Park loop from Tumalo State Park is a moderate 43.3-mile (69.8 km) route that starts and ends at Tumalo State Park, allowing you to explore the park's scenic riverside environment. A 2.4-mile segment of the Deschutes River Trail also passes directly through Tumalo State Park, offering a paved option.

Many road cycling routes in Tumalo utilize paved roads, including rural roads with generally low traffic and sections with dedicated bike lanes, such as on Highway 20. The Deschutes River Trail also offers paved sections, providing off-street cycling opportunities.