The best traffic-free bike rides around Bonneville

Bonneville offers a wide selection of car-free touring cycling routes. Our guide features over 370 routes, with options ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's a suitable ride for every skill level.

Yes, Bonneville is an excellent destination for family-friendly, no-traffic cycling. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail has several universally accessible segments, such as the Bonneville Segment (John B. Yeon to Cascade Locks) and the Twin Tunnels Segment (Hood River to Mosier), which are perfect for beginners and families. Additionally, the Discovery Trail System in North Bonneville provides almost 12 miles of paved, easy pathways.

Many of the multi-use trails in the Columbia River Gorge, including segments of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, are dog-friendly. However, regulations can vary by specific park or trail section. It's always best to check the local signage or the official website for the specific trail you plan to ride to confirm their pet policies, especially regarding leash requirements.

The Bonneville area, nestled in the Columbia River Gorge, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, especially its waterfalls. Many no-traffic cycling routes offer views of or access to cascades like Multnomah Falls, Elowah Falls, Starvation Creek Falls, Cabin Creek Falls, Hole-in-the-Wall Falls, and Lancaster Falls. You can also explore highlights such as Bérard Waterfall.

Yes, there are several circular routes that offer a car-free touring experience. For example, the Col de Joux Plane – Joux Plane Lake loop from Mévoutier provides a scenic circular ride. Another option is the Bridge in Bonneville – Lake with the Fisherman's Hut loop from Thyez, which offers a longer, immersive experience.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and state parks along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. Popular starting points like John B. Yeon State Park, Cascade Locks Marine Park, and Viento State Park often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as these spots can fill up quickly.

The best time for no-traffic bike touring in Bonneville is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and dry, and all trail segments are usually open. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can be wet, and higher elevation sections might be closed due to snow or ice.

Absolutely! The Columbia River Gorge is a rich habitat for various wildlife. Cyclists often spot diverse bird species, including eagles and ospreys, along the river. Deer and other small mammals are also common. The Bonneville Lock and Dam area, including Robins Island and Bradford Island, offers specific viewing opportunities for fish migration and other aquatic wildlife.

The no-traffic routes in Bonneville are rich with history. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail itself is a historic landmark, featuring restored tunnels, historic bridges, and arched rock masonry walls. You can also visit the Bonneville Lock and Dam, a national historic site, and Fort Cascades Historic Site, which offers peaceful walking paths and insights into the region's past.

The no-traffic cycling routes in Bonneville vary significantly in length and difficulty. You'll find shorter, easy rides like the 4.5-mile Twin Tunnels Segment, ideal for a quick outing. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Les Gets and the Col des Gets loop from Les Gets, can span over 22 kilometers with significant elevation gain. Our guide includes over 60 easy, 110 moderate, and 200 difficult routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, the unique experience of cycling on the historic highway segments without vehicle traffic, and the abundance of waterfalls and natural landmarks along the way. The well-maintained, car-free paths are frequently highlighted as a major draw.