The best gravel rides around Bend

Bend offers a wide variety of gravel biking experiences, with nearly 40 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy to difficult, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

Bend is a fantastic gravel biking destination for much of the year. Spring is often recommended for routes like the Westside Tour, which combines gravel and paved sections. Summer is ideal for higher elevation routes in areas like the Ochoco National Forest, known for its vast meadows. The diverse landscape, from high desert to alpine, means you can find suitable rides across different seasons, though winter conditions may limit access to some higher elevation trails.

Yes, Bend has options for beginners. While most routes are moderate, there is at least one easy route available. Additionally, routes like "Big Red" and "Sherman's Waltz" are known for being more relaxed options, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a less strenuous ride.

The trails around Bend offer stunning natural features shaped by the region's volcanic history. You can encounter ancient juniper trees, lava rock formations, and pine forests. Notable viewpoints include Lava Butte, an ancient cinder cone, and Pilot Butte, an extinct volcano within city limits. Many routes also offer views of the Cascade Mountains, including the iconic Three Sisters.

Absolutely. The Deschutes River flows through Bend and is central to many outdoor activities. You can find routes that follow its banks, offering varied riding experiences. For example, the Benham Falls – Deschutes River Bridge loop from Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is a moderate 63.2 km route that explores the river's scenic surroundings.

The gravel biking experience in Bend is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Over 400 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Bend's varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from high desert to pine forests, and the well-maintained trails.

Yes, for more experienced riders looking for a longer challenge, the Benham Falls – Deschutes River Bridge loop from Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District is a moderate 63.2 km route that takes approximately 4 hours 35 minutes to complete. This route offers a substantial ride through diverse landscapes.

Yes, many routes around Bend can be completed in under 3 hours. For instance, the Voodoo Trail – Cascade Lake Welcome Station loop from Summit High School is a moderate 31.8 km route that typically takes around 2 hours 54 minutes, making it a great option for a shorter ride.

Bend's dynamic volcanic legacy provides unique terrain. The Metolius River Area, for example, features refreshing riparian zones, climbs through fire recovery areas, and cinder climbs around Abbot Butte, offering picturesque mountain views. The region also boasts areas with rugged fields of exposed lava rock and expansive sagebrush of the High Desert.

Bend is known for its vibrant cycling culture and offers numerous amenities. You'll find plenty of bike shops, coffee shops, breweries, and restaurants throughout the area. Many trails are accessible from or near urban parks like Drake Park and Farewell Bend Park, which often have facilities nearby.

While most general gravel biking on public lands in the Bend area does not require specific permits for individual riders, it's always advisable to check with the local land management agencies (such as the U.S. Forest Service or BLM) for any specific regulations or permits that might apply to certain areas or activities, especially if you plan to camp or use designated wilderness areas. For general information on gravel cycling in Bend, you can consult resources like Visit Bend's guide.

Bend offers various convenient parking options and trailheads. Many routes start from easily accessible locations within or near the city. For example, several popular routes begin from areas like the Drake Park Neighborhood Historic District, which provides good access. Other trailheads, such as Phil's Trailhead or the Cascade Lake Welcome Station, serve as popular starting points for rides into the surrounding natural areas.