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Oregon is a mountain biker’s paradise, with a wide variety of trails that cater to every skill level, from beginner-friendly flow trails to adrenaline-pumping downhill tracks. Whether you’re looking to cruise through alpine meadows, weave between towering trees, or test your technical skills on rocky descents, Oregon has something for everyone. In this post, I’ll be covering the top 10 mountain biking destinations across the state that will make your next adventure unforgettable.
1. Bend and the Central Oregon Trail Network
Home to hundreds of miles of world-class singletrack, Bend is the epicenter of mountain biking in Oregon. The Phil’s Trailhead system offers a vast array of trails, from easy beginner loops to technical black diamond routes. The area is known for its smooth, flowy trails, scenic pine forests, and high-desert views.
- Must-ride trail: Whoops Trail – A flowy descent with berms, jumps, and rollers.
- Best for: All skill levels.
Pro Tip: Check out my Planning & Updates page for current trail conditions in Bend and Central Oregon!
2. Oakridge
Often referred to as the “Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest,” Oakridge is home to some of the best trail systems in the state. It boasts diverse terrain, including lush forests, steep descents, and challenging climbs. With epic rides like the Alpine Trail and the Larison Rock, this is a must-visit for serious mountain bikers.
- Must-ride trail: Alpine Trail – A 14-mile descent through dense forests with stunning views.
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders.
Pro Tip: For an epic all-day adventure, ride the Alpine-Tire Mountain Loop!
3. McKenzie River Trail
One of the most scenic mountain biking trails in Oregon, the McKenzie River Trail offers 26 miles of mostly downhill riding along crystal-clear rivers, past waterfalls, and through old-growth forests. The trail’s moderate technical features make it a great ride for both intermediate and advanced riders.
- Must-ride trail: The full McKenzie River Trail – 26 miles of beauty.
- Best for: Intermediate riders looking for a long, scenic ride.
4. Sandy Ridge
Located just outside of Portland, Sandy Ridge offers one of the best dedicated mountain biking trail systems in the state. Built with flow and progression in mind, this area features berms, jumps, drops, and rock gardens that cater to riders from beginner to expert.
- Must-ride trail: Hide and Seek – A fast, flowy trail with optional jumps and drops.
- Best for: Beginner to advanced riders.
Pro Tip: This area is super popular on weekends, so arrive early to get ahead of the crowds.
5. Mount Hood
For those seeking a higher-altitude adventure, the Timberline to Town trail on Mount Hood is a must. This alpine descent offers 13 miles of breathtaking scenery, from snow-capped peaks to dense forests. The challenging terrain and long descent make it a favorite for more experienced riders.
- Must-ride trail: Timberline to Town – A 13-mile descent with amazing views and technical sections.
- Best for: Advanced riders.
6. Umpqua River Trail
The North Umpqua River Trail offers a mix of smooth, flowy singletrack and technical, rocky sections, all with stunning views of the Umpqua River. The full trail spans over 70 miles, but you can tackle it in sections based on your skill level and stamina.
- Must-ride trail: Dread and Terror – Known for its challenging technical sections and remote beauty.
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders.
7. Hood River
The Post Canyon Trail System in Hood River offers a bit of everything for mountain bikers, from smooth flow trails to massive freeride lines with huge drops and jumps. The views of the Columbia River Gorge are unbeatable, and the community here is incredibly welcoming.
- Must-ride trail: Dropout – A fun, flowy descent with plenty of jumps and berms.
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders.
Pro Tip: Stop by a local bike shop for the latest trail conditions and recommendations on where to ride based on your skill level.
8. Tillamook State Forest
For riders looking to test their skills on rooty, technical terrain, the Tillamook State Forest is a fantastic option. Trails like Gales Creek and Wilson River offer challenging singletrack in a beautiful forested environment.
- Must-ride trail: Gales Creek Trail – A 12-mile ride through dense forest with lots of technical features.
- Best for: Advanced riders.
9. Black Rock
If you’re into freeride mountain biking and big features, Black Rock is the place to be. Located in Falls City, this trail system is known for its massive jumps, drops, and wooden features. With trails built for progression, you can start small and work your way up to the biggest lines.
- Must-ride trail: Granny’s Kitchen – A fun, flowy freeride trail with wooden features.
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced freeriders.
10. Alsea Falls
Tucked away in the Coast Range near Corvallis, the Alsea Falls Trail System is an emerging favorite for riders seeking a mix of flow and tech. The area offers smooth, machine-built trails with a variety of lines, as well as more natural, rooty terrain.
- Must-ride trail: Springboard – A flowy descent with big berms and tabletop jumps.
- Best for: Beginner to advanced riders.
Plan Your Visit
Make sure to check out my Planning & Updates page before heading out for the latest trail conditions, closures, and other important information. Whether you’re exploring the high desert of Bend, the dense forests of Oakridge, or the lush riverbanks of the McKenzie, Oregon has some of the best mountain biking trails in the country.
For a deeper look at how to respect nature while you ride, take a moment to review my Outdoor Ethos Guide. It’s not just about enjoying the ride—it’s about protecting the land so we can keep shredding these trails for years to come.
What to Bring
Here’s a quick gear checklist to ensure a smooth and safe ride:
- Mountain bike: Make sure your bike is trail-ready. If you’re looking for a reliable all-mountain setup, check out the Trek Fuel EX.
- Helmet: Safety first—grab a high-quality MIPS helmet for extra protection.
- Hydration pack: Stay hydrated on those long rides with a CamelBak.
- Multi-tool and spare tube: Be prepared for anything with a multi-tool and a spare tube to fix flats on the go.
- Protective gear: Knee and elbow pads are a must for tackling more technical terrain. I recommend the Fox Enduro Pads.
Oregon’s diverse terrain offers mountain bikers an unparalleled experience, from flowy, fast descents to technical, rooty challenges. Whether you’re a beginner looking to test your skills or an expert seeking the next big thrill, these top 10 areas are sure to deliver. So gear up, hit the trails, and discover why Oregon is one of the best places for mountain biking in the Pacific Northwest!
