One of the great things about having a mountain is that it creates awesome mountain biking trails. From beginners to experts, there are some great rides in Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory that will get your heart pumping, as well as some adrenaline.
Elevation: 2,592’ (790m)
Distance: 15.2+ miles (24.5km)
Type: 80% Singletrack, 20% Doubletrack
Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate to Challenging (Expert)
A nationally recognized trail system, this is a must stop for tourists and locals alike. 15.2 miles of trails (and growing) 80% of which are singletrack make this one of the premier mountain biking destinations not just in the county, but in the country. The well-drained trails can be ridden up to 10 out of the 12 months per year, and with the Mt. Hood Express offering shuttle service coupled with Tri-Met, car-free enthusiasts can travel from as far away as PDX International Airport or downtown Portland to get there.
Elevation: 1,745’ (531m)
Distance: 8 miles (12.9km)
Type: 100% Singletrack
Difficulty: Intermediate
Starting at the Tollgate Campground just east (1/2 mile) of Rhododendron, this 8 mile, intermediate-level singletrack twists through dense forests and includes some technical rocky sections. Riders wanting an extra workout can continue on from Government Camp up to Timberline Lodge via the Enid Lake, Cross Town and Glade Trails. For the downhill experience, start at Government Camp. Please note: Due to the elevation of the run, trail is open Spring through Fall (snow dependent)
Elevation: 865’ (261m)
Distance: 20+ miles (32.2km)
Type: 56% Singletrack & 44% Doubletrack (Old Logging Roads)
Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate to Challenging
This trail system is an extensive network of more than 20 miles of trails and combines both singletrack trails and old logging roads. Start at the popular Hardy Creek Trailhead and after warming up on the Warm-up Loop trail, head up for some intermediate and advanced riding on the Rim Trail. Remember that this trail system can be used by hikers and equestrians, so yield to both if you encounter them on your ride. System may be closed from November 15 to May 15 when the trails are muddy.
Elevation: 1,552’ (473m)
Distance: 15.8 miles (25.4km)
Type: 65% Singletrack, 35% Doubletrack
Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate to Challenging
Mostly singletrack with some doubletrack and gravel/dirt sections, this loop offers riders fast flowing areas with short, challenging climbs coupled with some longer, sustained climbing. Frequented by campers, hikers (especially on the NE section where the trail joins the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)) and equestrian riders, be aware on downhill routes and be sure to walk your bike on the PCT segment as riding that section is not allowed.
Elevation: -632’ (192m)
Distance: 16.5 miles (26.5km)
Type: 48% Singletrack, 31% Paved, 21% Dirt Road
The Oregon Timber Trail is an iconic 670-mile backcountry mountain bike route stretching from Oregon’s border with California to the Columbia River Gorge. Although this segment of the Timber Trail (Olallie Lake to Parkdale) is considered a challenging route with over 8,500’ of climbing, the Mt. Hood Territory section offers little to no climbing and excellent views of Mt. Hood from Timothy Lake. Head north on the old Oregon Skyline Trail, a predecessor of the Pacific Crest Trail established in 1968. Once you loop around Timothy Lake, be aware that you’ll join the PCT for a short section so please walk your bikes as riding is not allowed on this quick stretch of trail.
Elevation: 1,500’ (457m), lift-assisted
Distance: 8 miles, up to 17.2 in 2020 (27.7km)
Type: 70% Singletrack, 30% Flow Trail
The Timberline Bike Park includes a skills park, trail system, natural features, built features and jump lines. It opened in summer of 2019 with 8 miles of green, blue and black trails. Facilities slated to open include a full service bike shop offering repairs, rentals and sales, food and beverage concessions and a bike school. The Timberline Bike School will offer lessons and bike park orientation. Students will learn about safety and etiquette in a skills park area before hitting the trails with an experienced instructor. The Mt. Hood Express offers service to Timberline.
One of the best things about a mountain biking adventure in The Territory is you don't have to go it alone. We have a wealth of services catering specifically to bike enthusiasts. From Bike Friendly businesses to bike shops, tour guides and other services that will keep you on two wheels throughout your journey. Since it will take at least a weekend to explore all these trails, allow us to suggest a few nearby lodging options that will make the perfect base of operations for your mountain biking adventure. We have some great hotels and motels that run the full range from full-service to budget-friendly, awesome vacation rentals if you're coming up with a group of friends or family, and plenty of camping if you're more into roughing it. See you on the trails!
