12 | Willamette Valley Travel Guide Naturally, this scenery has long charmed cyclists seeking out adventure all over the region. Mountain bike riders shred world-renowned single-track trails in the forests around Oakridge, gravel riders find thrills in the backroad foothills of the Oregon Coast Range and road cyclists love exploring the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway—the first official scenic bikeway in the United States. Here’s a look at the world-class versatility of the Willamette Valley’s cycling scene. Two-Wheeled Touring EXPLORE THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY BY BICYCLE There’s so much to love about the beauty of the Willamette Valley: Rolling hillsides cut through acres of farmland, dozens of covered bridges cross creeks and rivers, and forested foothills enchant in the region’s mountain ranges. RIDE THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY SCENIC BIKEWAY Running along country roads and through small towns, the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway is a 134-mile, (216-kilometer) state-designated road-bicycle route showcasing many of the region’s most popular highlights: quiet country roads, charming communities, family farms, pastoral parks and—of course—some of the Willamette Valley’s most popular (and scenic) wineries. Strong cyclists can complete the self-guided tour in as little as one day, but we’d recommend two or three days to stop and enjoy the sights. Dedicated cyclists can camp at Champoeg State Heritage Area, Willamette Mission State Park, Brownsville’s Pioneer Park and Armitage Park— while bed-and-breakfasts and hotels, many offering secure bike storage, provide more comfortable options for multiday rides. The enthusiasm spawned by the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway has led to the development of additional bikeways throughout the region—including the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway and the Cascading Rivers Scenic Bikeway. Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway
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