The best cycling routes in Howard Buford Recreation Area
4.7
(24)
570
riders
33
rides
Touring cycling routes in Howard Buford Recreation Area primarily follow paths along the Willamette River forks and connect various natural areas and towns surrounding the main recreation area. The landscape features river floodplains, meadows, and oak woodlands, offering mostly flat to gently rolling terrain suitable for cycling. While the core trails within the Howard Buford Recreation Area and Mount Pisgah Arboretum do not permit bicycles, the surrounding region provides accessible routes that showcase the area's diverse ecosystems. These routes often…
Last updated: October 14, 2026
4.0
(1)
8
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
13.7km
00:52
40m
40m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Middle Fork Path, a pleasant route spanning 8.5 miles (13.7 km). You will gain a gentle 119 feet (36 metres) of…
4.5
(2)
11
riders
16.7km
01:01
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
36.5km
02:07
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Howard Buford Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
Easy ride with no traffic only bikes and joggers, some walking couples
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The North Bank Path goes right under the interstate while hugging the banks of the river. The path connects to a bunch of other paved paths in this area, but the simplest route is just to stick to the widest path.
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The Georgia Pacific Natural Area offers cyclists an alluring journey through picturesque landscapes near Springfield. Ride amidst towering trees, soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Keep an eye out for deer, and a multitude of bird species that call this serene environment home, adding to the allure of the ride.
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Dorris Ranch is a public park and Oregon's oldest working hazelnut farm. The four-mile Middle Fork Path trailhead is here, connecting to Clearwater Park. There is a living history interpretive village with historic houses that can be viewed from the outside, providing a chance to step into a day in the life of early settlers.
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This is an absolutely gorgeous spot. The river meanders through the forest and round the hills, bringing with it a sense of calm and serenity. And relax...
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The current iteration of the Lowell Covered Bridge was constructed in 1945 to replace the original 1907 bridge after a large truck damaged it beyond repair. Eventually the bridge was bypassed by a modern concrete bridge and fell into disrepair. However, the bridge was reopened as an interpretive center on the other covered bridges in the area. There's also a rest area with parking, restrooms, and picnic tables.
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Georgia Pacific Natural Area offers more than a mile of waterfront along Middle Fork Willamette River, with a multi-use trail that's good for cycling, but if you wander off onto the soft-surface trails you'll have a hard time with a road bike. Keep an eye out for western pond turtles here.
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The North Bank Path goes right under the interstate while hugging the banks of the river. The path connects to a bunch of other paved paths in this area, but the simplest route is just to stick to the widest path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cycle on the trails within the Howard Buford Recreation Area itself?
No, bicycles are not permitted on the trails within the Howard Buford Recreation Area or the Mount Pisgah Arboretum. The touring cycling routes described in this guide are located in the surrounding region, often following paths along the Willamette River forks and connecting various natural areas outside the core recreation area.
How many touring cycling routes are available around the Howard Buford Recreation Area?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes available in the region surrounding the Howard Buford Recreation Area, offering diverse experiences for cyclists.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in this area?
Most routes are classified as easy, with 19 easy routes and 4 moderate routes. There are no difficult touring cycling routes listed, making the area accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Dorris Ranch – Frohnmayer Bridge loop from Georgia Pacific Natural Area is a popular 17.1-mile loop that follows the Willamette River.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these touring cycling routes?
The routes primarily follow paths along the Willamette River forks, traversing river floodplains, open meadows, and oak woodlands. You'll experience a mix of shaded sections and open areas, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the southern Willamette Valley.
Are the touring cycling routes suitable for families?
Given that most routes are classified as easy and feature mostly flat to gently rolling terrain, they are generally well-suited for families. The Middle Fork Path, for instance, is an easy 8.5-mile route along the Middle Fork of the Willamette River, perfect for a relaxed family ride.
What are some interesting places to explore along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore various natural areas and points of interest. Notable attractions nearby include the Mount Pisgah Arboretum Museum, the Patricia Baker Wildflower Garden, and The Old Barn. These offer opportunities to learn about local flora and history.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about cycling in this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 12 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic river paths, the peaceful natural surroundings, and the accessibility of the routes for various skill levels.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
Yes, for those looking for a longer ride, the Lowell Covered Bridge – Lowell Covered Bridge loop from Jasper offers a moderate 22.7-mile (36.6 km) journey, providing a more extended experience through the region.
Where can I find information about the Howard Buford Recreation Area itself, even if I can't cycle its trails?
For general information about the Howard Buford Recreation Area, including details on hiking and other activities, you can visit the official Lane County Parks website: lanecountyor.gov.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Howard Buford Recreation Area?
The region experiences diverse weather, but spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summer can be warm, especially in open areas, while winter might bring rain. Checking local weather forecasts before your ride is always recommended.
Are there any routes that pass through or near towns where I can find amenities?
Yes, some routes connect to or pass near towns like Springfield. For example, the Dorris Ranch – Dorris Ranch loop from Springfield starts and ends in Springfield, providing access to local cafes and other amenities.
Most popular routes in Howard Buford Recreation Area
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