Biking An ideal introduction is the Twin Tunnels Trail, a paved, vehicle- free route suitable for many ages and abilities. The 4.5-mile ride from Hood River to Mosier is part of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, reclaiming a route originally built as America’s first scenic highway. It threads along a high bluff with views of the Columbia hundreds of feet below. Evidence of the old road endures — stone mile markers, elegant masonry railings and especially the trail’s two historic tunnels chiseled through the basalt. Begin your ride at the Mark Hatfield West Trailhead ($5/day state park pass required, available on-site) or join an e-bike tour with Sol Rides. The Hood River Valley seems custom-made for road rides. In the Pine Grove/Odell area off the Fruit Loop, lightly traveled paved roads loop through orchards, vineyards and fields of lavender. Gravel riders have even more options on the web of forest roads off FR-16 west of Parkdale and FR-17 east of the town of Mt. Hood. FR-17 also makes a convenient access point for mountain bikers tackling Surveyor’s Ridge, 13 miles of epic singletrack snaking high above the valley. For shorter rides closer to town, check out the Easy CLIMB Loop in Cascade Locks and the popular Post Canyon network in Hood River. Be sure to pick up a parking pass for Post Canyon at the staging area. For an unusual cycling adventure mid-July to mid-October, book a time slot with the Mount Hood Railroad for a motorized tandem rail-bike ride. On specialty bikes that fit right on the rails, you’ll enjoy Mt. Hood views as you pedal through forest and orchard to a renovated fruit storage warehouse with historical exhibits. Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Mosier Twin Tunnels Post Canyon CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VISIT HOOD RIVER (2); KATIE FALKENBERG / TRAVEL OREGON 20 Visit Hood River Travel Guide
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