Blue Mountain Trail

The Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway is a 108-mile (approximately 174 km) loop designed for touring cyclists in northeast Oregon. It offers a challenging yet rewarding multi-day ride through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills and significant climbs, with one section ascending over 3,000 feet above the starting point.

For most cyclists, the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway is a multi-day ride due to its length and elevation changes. While very hardy riders might attempt to complete it in a single day, planning for two or more days allows for a more enjoyable experience and time to appreciate the scenery.

The bikeway features rolling hills and significant climbing, particularly a section in the Umatilla National Forest that ascends over 3,000 feet. While the climbs are lengthy, they are generally not excessively steep. The route primarily uses well-maintained roads with minimal vehicle traffic, making it a moderate to challenging ride suitable for experienced touring cyclists.

The Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway conveniently starts and ends in Heppner, Oregon. Heppner is a full-service community where you can securely leave your vehicle while you embark on your cycling adventure.

The route offers breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains and transitions through diverse landscapes. You'll pass by Willow Creek Reservoir, fertile swales and valleys, and ride through the deep Umatilla National Forest. The scenery showcases the high, dry, and less-traveled country characteristic of northeast Oregon.

Yes, the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway is notable for its rich history. It follows parts of the historic Oregon Trail, offering a unique opportunity to experience a significant historical route on two wheels, tracing the path once taken by 19th-century pioneers.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the late spring, summer, and early fall months when the weather is most favorable. Always check local weather forecasts before your trip, as conditions can vary, especially in mountainous regions.

As the bikeway primarily uses public roads, dogs are generally permitted if they are well-behaved and kept on a leash or otherwise secured, following local regulations. However, always be mindful of traffic and other cyclists, and ensure your dog is comfortable with long-distance cycling.

No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway itself, as it utilizes public roads. However, if you plan to stay at campgrounds or use services in towns, standard fees for those amenities would apply.

Services and lodging can be scarce along the bikeway, so careful planning for accommodations and supplies is highly recommended. Heppner, the starting point, is a full-service community. The town of Ukiah offers overnight options, a grocery store, and a cafe, making it a good stop for resupply and rest.

No, the 7.4km 'Blue Mountain Trail' komoot tour is a shorter, local route. When discussing touring cycling in the region, the 108-mile Blue Mountain Century Scenic Bikeway in Oregon is the primary and most relevant route designed for multi-day touring experiences, as highlighted by its dedicated design for cyclists.