Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway

The Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway is approximately 36 miles (58.5 km) long. Most cyclists complete the route in about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on their pace and how many stops they make to enjoy the scenery. The estimated duration for this specific tour is around 3 hours and 37 minutes.

The bikeway is considered moderate in difficulty. While it's not for complete beginners, regular riders will find it manageable. It features primarily level to rolling terrain with some climbs in and out of the Tumalo Creek and Deschutes River canyons. There's just over 1,000 feet of climbing, with some segments reaching a 6.2% gradient.

A convenient starting point is Drake Park in downtown Bend, which offers amenities like restrooms and parking. Another option for parking is the Juniper Trailhead. The route is a loop, so you'll finish where you started.

The bikeway offers continuously changing and stunning scenery. You'll enjoy continuous views of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains, traverse high-desert landscapes, hobby farms, and hay fields. The route also features crossings of the Deschutes River and Tumalo Creek, with lovely wetlands and ranches. You'll pass through Shevlin Park and skirt rugged canyon edges.

Yes, the route is named after the two bridges crossing the Deschutes River. You'll pass through Shevlin Park, a beautiful forest area. There's also a dedicated Twin Bridges resting area & bike aid station for a break. The charming town of Tumalo is also a good spot for a stop before the final climbs back to Bend.

Central Oregon generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from spring through fall. The bikeway is best enjoyed when the weather is mild, typically from late April to early October, to fully appreciate the mountain views and high-desert landscapes without extreme heat or cold.

No, there are no specific permits or fees required to cycle the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway itself, as it is part of Oregon's Scenic Bikeway program. However, if you plan to use facilities within state parks along the route, standard day-use fees might apply for parking or amenities.

While the bikeway itself is on public roads and dedicated bike lanes, specific rules for dogs may vary in parks or natural areas along the route, such as Shevlin Park or Tumalo State Park. Always check local regulations for leash requirements and dog access in these areas.

Beyond the initial urban streets of Bend, which have bike lanes, the rural roads generally have low traffic volumes. However, cyclists should be aware of farm equipment and other vehicles on multi-use roadways. It's recommended to ride the loop portion in a clockwise direction for safety, especially where it briefly travels on Highway 20, which has a dedicated bike lane.

Yes, while primarily following the Twin Bridges Loop Scenic Bikeway for a significant portion, the route also briefly intersects with other paths such as the Discovery Trail, Tumalo Creek Trail, and Deschutes River Trail in various sections.

The Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway is entirely paved, making it ideal for road bikes. The route is specifically designated for 'racebike' use, indicating its suitability for road cycling with its smooth surfaces and rolling terrain.