The best road cycling routes in Lacamas Regional Park

Lacamas Regional Park offers a diverse selection of nearly 20 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the scenic landscapes around Lacamas Lake and Round Lake, as well as the surrounding hills.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For example, the Wintler Park – Round Lake loop from Camas High School is an easy 25.5-mile trail featuring gentle gradients around Round Lake, ideal for a relaxed ride.

Routes in Lacamas Regional Park vary in length and time. You can find shorter rides, but many popular routes range from approximately 24 to over 60 miles. For instance, the Lacamas Lake – Prune Hill loop from Camas is about 24.2 miles, typically taking around 1 hour 45 minutes, while the Round Lake – Lacamas Lake loop from Camas covers 33.2 miles and can take about 2 hours 27 minutes.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, Lacamas Regional Park offers routes with significant elevation gains. The Bridge of the Gods Ride, for example, is a difficult 62-mile route with over 1,500 meters of ascent, providing a substantial challenge.

Road cycling in Lacamas Regional Park is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter rides are possible, but be mindful of cooler temperatures and potential rain.

Yes, many of the routes in Lacamas Regional Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Wintler Park – Round Lake loop from Camas High School and the Round Lake – Lacamas Lake loop from Camas are excellent examples of circular routes that explore the lake districts.

Parking is generally available at various access points around Lacamas Regional Park and the nearby towns like Camas. Many routes, such as those starting from Camas High School or within Camas itself, offer convenient parking options to begin your ride.

The routes offer diverse scenery, primarily featuring views of Lacamas Lake and Round Lake. You'll also cycle through rolling hills and forested areas. Some routes, like the Lacamas Lake – Prune Hill loop from Camas, include ascents that provide panoramic vistas of the lakes and surrounding landscape.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Lacamas Regional Park, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful lake views, and the mix of challenging climbs and scenic, flatter sections that cater to different cycling preferences.

Yes, the routes are often close to or pass through the town of Camas, where you can find various cafes, restaurants, and shops to refuel. It's advisable to carry water and snacks, especially on longer rides, but options are available in nearby communities.

For road cycling in the park, it's recommended to bring appropriate cycling gear, including a helmet, water bottles, snacks, and a repair kit. Depending on the weather, layers of clothing are advisable. A charged phone and a map or GPS device are also useful for navigation.

While road cycling primarily takes place on paved surfaces, the routes often pass through natural areas and along the lake shores. You might spot various bird species, including waterfowl on the lakes, and occasionally other small wildlife in the forested sections adjacent to the roads.