The best cycling routes around Cascades

There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in the Cascades region, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the diverse landscapes.

The Cascades offer a wide variety of terrain, from relatively flat, paved multi-use trails to demanding mountain passes with significant elevation gain. You can expect a combination of paved and crushed gravel surfaces, winding through old-growth forests, past volcanic landscapes, and alongside pristine lakes and rivers.

Yes, the Cascades region includes accessible multi-use trails that are suitable for families. These often follow former rail lines, providing mostly flat elevations and a safe environment for cyclists of all ages. Look for routes that are described as 'easy' or 'moderate' for a more relaxed family experience.

The Cascades are renowned for their majestic natural beauty. Cyclists can experience awe-inspiring features such as glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount Hood, and the deep blue waters of Crater Lake. The Columbia River Gorge offers breathtaking views and numerous waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls. Many routes also traverse lush lowland forests and alpine meadows.

The best time for touring cycling in the Cascades generally depends on the specific elevation and route. Lower elevation trails are often accessible from spring through fall. For higher mountain passes and routes, late spring to early fall (typically June through September) offers the most favorable weather conditions, avoiding snow and ice.

Yes, the Cascades offer options for multi-day touring. Routes like sections of the Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route provide extensive journeys through forests, volcanoes, and deserts, often involving major climbs. Other long-distance multi-use paths, such as the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, can also be adapted for multi-day adventures.

The Cascades cater to all levels of touring cyclists. Approximately 19 routes are considered easy, 30 are moderate, and 9 are difficult. This means you can choose anything from gentle rides along river valleys to challenging ascents over mountain passes, depending on your experience and fitness.

The Cascades region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the spectacular natural scenery, the diversity of trails, and the immersive experience of riding through majestic mountains, dense forests, and along pristine waterways.

The Columbia River Gorge, which forms part of the border between Oregon and Washington, is particularly famous for its numerous waterfalls, including the iconic Multnomah Falls. Many cycling routes in this area offer opportunities to view these natural wonders.

While popular routes can see more traffic, the vastness of the Cascades means there are many opportunities to find less crowded trails. Exploring routes in less-trafficked national forests or seeking out lesser-known sections of multi-use paths can provide a more secluded touring experience. Early mornings or weekdays are also good times to avoid crowds.

The diverse ecosystems of the Cascades support a rich array of wildlife. Depending on the specific area and season, you might spot deer, elk, various bird species, and smaller mammals. In more remote areas, there's also a chance of encountering larger wildlife, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

Challenges for touring cyclists in the Cascades can include significant elevation gains on mountain passes, variable weather conditions, and mixed terrain surfaces. Some routes may also have limited services, so planning for water, food, and bike maintenance is crucial, especially on longer or more remote tours.