Tumalo Creek Trail

Yes, this trail is highly recommended for novice mountain bikers and families. It's rated as aerobically easy to intermediate and technically easy, featuring smooth singletrack without significant climbs or difficult rock gardens. It's an excellent option for introducing new riders to mountain biking.

The trail predominantly features smooth singletrack, making for an enjoyable ride. While generally non-technical, there are a few rocky sections that can present a slight challenge for beginners. In late summer and early fall, conditions can be quite dry and dusty, even at higher elevations.

Riders are treated to exceptional scenery throughout the Tumalo Canyon and the Bridge Creek Burn area. The trail follows Tumalo Creek, offering glimpses of the babbling creek below, as well as views of Mount Bachelor. The highlight is Tumalo Falls, a 97-foot waterfall, which is a beautiful visual reward at the turnaround point. You'll also pass a Bridge crossing Tumalo Creek and sections of old-growth forest.

The trail is located about 10 miles west of Bend, Oregon. Access is typically via a forest road, which leads to parking areas near the trailhead. It's advisable to check local conditions for specific parking availability, especially during peak seasons.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Tumalo Creek Trail itself. However, as the trail is located near Shevlin Loop Trail, it's always a good idea to check for any current regulations or fees related to Shevlin Park or the surrounding forest land, though typically these areas are free for day use.

The trail is typically accessible in the summer and fall. These seasons offer the best conditions, with the forest road leading to the trailhead usually open. Late summer and early fall provide a relatively nontechnical ride at the upper reaches of the eastern slope of the Cascade Range.

The forest road leading to the trail is subject to seasonal closure from approximately November through May. During winter, the trail is often used for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking, but mountain biking access is generally limited due to road closures and snow conditions.

While the trail is generally multi-use, specific regulations regarding dogs can vary. It's best to assume that dogs should be kept on a leash and that owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets to ensure a pleasant experience for all users and to protect wildlife.

No, e-bikes are generally not allowed on the Tumalo Creek Trail. This trail is typically reserved for traditional mountain bikes, hikers, and trail runners.

Yes, the Tumalo Creek Trail is part of a larger network. It can be incorporated into longer rides, such as a 13-mile loop that includes Tumalo Ridge, Swede Ridge, and South Fork trails. It also connects with sections of the North Fork Trail, Mrazek Trail, and Farewell trails for more challenging experiences. The route also passes through sections of the Shevlin Loop Trail and the Discovery Trail.

The Tumalo Creek Trail serves as a beautiful and easy warm-up. For a longer, more challenging ride, you can connect it to the North Fork Trail, which can be part of a loop with Mrazek and Farewell trails. This offers significant climbing and rewarding downhill sections. Alternatively, it can be part of a 13-mile loop including Tumalo Ridge, Swede Ridge, and South Fork trails.