The best traffic-free bike rides in Hood River County
4.9
(12)
475
riders
16
rides
Road cycling in Hood River County offers diverse terrain set against dramatic natural backdrops. The region is defined by the expansive Columbia River Gorge, providing river views and challenging climbs, alongside the majestic presence of Mount Hood. Cyclists navigate through fertile valleys characterized by orchards and vineyards, with routes ranging from scenic flat stretches to significant elevation gains. The landscape transitions from river-level paths to higher elevations offering panoramic vistas.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Hood River County
…Last updated: April 25, 2026
2
riders
75.7km
04:27
1,280m
1,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
56.2km
02:52
960m
960m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
40
riders
82.5km
04:25
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
26
riders
107km
05:39
1,630m
1,630m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
113km
06:34
2,260m
2,260m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Traffic-free bike rides in Hood River County
Tips from the Community
Lost Lake is great for cyclists because they can ride right up to the edge of the lake. Lost Lake has a campground and lots of activities. There is a resort store that offers canoes, kayaks, wooden boats, metal fishing boats, and stand-up paddle board rentals. Visitors can find a number of hiking and biking trails and can spend the day bird-watching, berry-picking, swimming, waterfall-finding, or participating in some of the scheduled activities like telescoped stargazing, special Forest Service events, or live music.
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There are two punchbowl falls in the area, but this one is not as steep and much more accessible. The "punchbowl" collects the strong, short waterfall and swirls and churns the water. The parking lot is only a 0.2-minute nature walk from the trailhead. The Punchbowl Falls County Park is 103 acres in size, and the property has been saved for the public and trails built by volunteers.
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About 50 feet off the highway, the pavement takes riders to an overlook of the Memaloose Hills, called the Memaloose Lookout. Memaloose Overlook has a viewpoint of Memaloose Island and is a great photo opportunity, especially on a clear day.
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With the solgan "What can we do in Dufur for you?" this small town is a good base camp for those wanting anything outdoors in a short drive. Dufur boasts century-old farms, wheat ranches and mills, fruit orchards, wineries, the Barlow Trail, a Pioneer Museum, an old bank vault now filled with nothing but antlers, and Oregon’s largest certified organic produce company. The city website offers cycle route options from Dufur as well: https://www.dufur.org/cycling-maps/
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In the winter this is a great place to hit the slopes, but it is quiet in off seasons, yet a great spot to get out of the trees and get a glimpse at Mt Hood.
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Kiyokawa Family Orchards has been growing fruits since 1911, over 100 years ago. There is a huge variety of pears and apples for tourists to pick from. Bikers can go before or after a ride to stock up on some good vitamins and nutrients. Hours depends on the season. July 8–Aug 20: Weekends Only 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Aug 25-Oct 31: Open Daily: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm Sat/Sun 9am-5pm Nov 1- Nov 19: Open Daily 10am-4pm
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Lolo Pass Road is a narrow, almost totally paved road going from Lost Lake Road up to Lolo Pass, where at its highest point it becomes unpaved, and then the pavement picks up again as it drops down to the town of Welches. It's a great ride from the Hood River Area, and the best turn around spot is where the pavement ends. Enjoy wildflowers, meadows and lush forests along the way.
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It's 70 km all uphill. There's hardly any traffic. Its hard. But it's damn cool to always drive around this mighty and wonderful mountain!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Hood River County?
There are 17 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Hood River County, offering a variety of experiences from easy scenic rides to challenging climbs. You'll find options suitable for different fitness levels.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in Hood River County?
The spring blossom season in the Hood River Valley, typically April to May, offers a spectacular display among the orchards and vineyards. Summer and early fall also provide excellent conditions for cycling, with generally stable weather. Be aware that the Columbia River Gorge can experience strong winds, especially during certain times of the year.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Hood River County offers 3 easy no-traffic road cycling routes. A notable option is the car-free paved section of the Historic Columbia River Highway Trail, particularly the 4.5-mile segment connecting Hood River and Mosier, which includes the unique Mosier Twin Tunnels. This provides a safe and incredibly scenic experience with river views.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes in Hood River County?
The terrain varies significantly. You can find relatively flat stretches, especially along the Columbia River, but many routes involve significant elevation changes as you climb into the Hood River Valley or towards Mount Hood. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, from fertile orchards to forested areas and dramatic gorge views.
What scenic viewpoints or landmarks can I see along these routes?
Many routes offer breathtaking views. You might encounter vistas of the Columbia River Gorge, majestic Mount Hood, and the expansive Hood River Valley. Specific highlights include Columbia River Lookout, View of Mt. Hood & White River Glacier, and Gnarl Ridge and Lamberson Butte. The Historic Railroad Bridge and Gorge Trail also offers unique scenery.
Are there any waterfalls accessible near the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the Columbia River Gorge is home to numerous waterfalls. While cycling, you might find opportunities to visit stunning natural attractions like Punch Bowl Falls or Dry Creek Falls, often just a short detour from the main cycling paths.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. Hood River County offers 8 difficult routes for experienced cyclists. For example, the Mt Hood Highway to Dufur route covers over 75 km with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding ride with rewarding views. Another challenging option is the Lost Lake – Kiyokawa Family Orchards Home loop from Parkdale, which is over 113 km and features substantial climbing.
Can I find loop routes that avoid traffic?
Yes, several no-traffic road cycling routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Twin Tunnels Trail – Memaloose Lookout loop from Hood River offers a substantial 82.5 km ride, combining the car-free Historic Columbia River Highway Trail with other low-traffic sections to create a scenic circular experience.
What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling routes in Hood River County?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Hood River County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain, and the unique experience of cycling on car-free sections like the Historic Columbia River Highway Trail.
Are there places to stop for food or amenities along the routes?
Many routes pass through or near towns like Hood River, Parkdale, or Mosier, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. The Hood River Valley is also known for its Fruit Loop, which features numerous orchards and wineries where you can stop for local produce and refreshments.
Where can I find more information about cycling events in Hood River County?
Hood River County hosts annual cycling events like the 'Cherry of a Ride' and 'The Gorge Ride'. For more details on these and other cycling-related information, you can visit the local tourism website: visithoodriver.com.
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