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 two historic tunnels chiseled through the basalt. Begin your ride at the Mark O. Hatfield West Trailhead (a day-rate state park pass required, available on-site) or join an e-bike tour with one of the area’s expert guides. 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 and vineyards. 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 single-track snaking high above the valley. For shorter rides closer to town, check out the EasyCLIMB 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. Just east of Cascade Locks, the expanded Cascade Locks International Mountain Biking — known as CLIMB — trails offer 16 miles of tight turns, berms, hills and rugged terrain. For an unusual cycling adventure May to 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 orchards to a historic fruit warehouse. EasyCLIMB Loop Rail-biking Surveyor’s Ridge CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: TRAVEL OREGON; VISIT HOOD RIVER (2) 18 Visit Hood River Travel Guide
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