Columbia River Lookout

If you're seeking a touring cycling adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with a challenging ride, the Historic Columbia River Highway and Memaloose Hills Loop delivers. This difficult 21.2-mile (34.1 km) route features 1957 feet (597 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 20 minutes. You'll traverse paved, car-free sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway, offering continuous views of the Columbia River Gorge, before transitioning to the rolling oak forests of the Memaloose Hills, where spring wildflowers create a spectacular display. Keep an eye out for the historic Twin Tunnels and expansive vistas from Memaloose Lookout.

For the best experience, consider riding in March or April to witness the Memaloose Hills in full bloom with yellow balsamroot, purple lupine, and red paintbrush. While the Historic Columbia River Highway sections are generally smooth, be prepared for potentially unpaved, steep, and slick terrain if you venture into the Memaloose Hills, which might require dismounting and pushing your bike. The route's overall difficulty means it's best suited for experienced touring cyclists looking for a substantial workout.

This loop offers a unique blend of history and natural wonder, following portions of the original Historic Columbia River Highway, an early 20th-century engineering marvel. You'll encounter restored bridges, tunnels, and masonry walls, providing a tangible connection to the past. The foresight of the highway's designers created gentle grades that make for a more manageable cycling experience, despite the significant elevation gain, and access to local amenities like wineries and breweries near Mosier adds to the appeal.

Cycle the 14.3-mile Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Loop, a moderate route with 1147 feet of gain and stunning Columbia River Go

Embark on a delightful touring bicycle ride through the Hood River Valley, where you'll encounter picturesque views of rolling vineyards and patchwork-patterned orchards. This moderate 15.7-mile (25.3 km) loop, with 1324 feet (404 metres) of elevation gain, offers stunning vistas of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, with Mt. Adams visible in the distance. Expect a journey through agricultural richness, making it one of the best touring cycling loops Oregon Columbia River Gorge has to offer.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the route being particularly vibrant in summer and autumn when the orchards are in full swing. The terrain consists of mostly paved, level roads with some slight ascents, making it accessible for many cyclists. While a standard bicycle is fine, an e-bike can make the climbs even more effortless, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery and stops like The Gorge White House. This route is beginner friendly, but a good level of fitness helps if you're not using an e-bike.

The Hood River area boasts a rich farming and orchardist history dating back to the 1850s, now complemented by a significant wine scene. The Gorge White House, a historic family farm, is a highlight, offering local cider and wine. This loop is part of the broader Fruit Loop, which includes numerous farms, U-pick markets, wineries, and breweries, providing ample opportunities to sample the region's renowned produce and beverages.