PEDAL POWER For a top-notch introduction to Oregon cycling, the 134-mile Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway is the way to go. Hearty riders make a (very long) day of it, while most cyclists break up the trip over a few days. Start at Champoeg State Heritage Area; from there you’ll meander south through Willamette Mission State Park, the city of Salem, and Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge. For an easier but equally scenic route, pedal the 7.3-mile loop at MintoBrown Island Park, where you’ll cycle by beautiful wetlands. You’ll also find hundreds of miles of single-track trails around the Salem area that are a mountain biker’s dream. Pump through the lush evergreen forest of Silver Falls State Park on the Catamount Trail, where turns, berms and rock features offer an exhilarating yet approachable cross-country ride. The connecting beginner-friendly Newt Loop provides skill stations and mild climbs along the packed-dirt single-track. Or head to the Black Rock Mountain Biking Area, a network of free-ride trails about 30 miles west of Salem that has earned the “Epic Ride” designation from the International Mountain Bicycling Association. With hand-built skinnies, berms and gap jumps, many trails are best suited for experienced riders; beginners can start at the “Basic Training” skill-development area. In the Santiam State Forest, hop on the Monument Peak Trails for 12 miles of single-track that wind through towering Douglas fir trees, pristine meadows and waterfalls. The trail can be rough and technical at high speeds; be sure to brake for horses. CAMPING CHAMPOEG STATE HERITAGE AREA This state-heritage site about 20 miles north of Salem sits along the beautiful Willamette River with 615 acres of old-growth forest, grassy meadows and wetlands. Enjoy walking or biking on nature trails that pass historical landmarks and wind along the river. Take advantage of the variety of camping options including yurts, cabins, walk-in tent sites and RV spots with electrical hookups. SILVER FALLS STATE PARK Nature is always aglow at Silver Falls State Park. Located only 30 miles from Salem, this park is home to the Trail of Ten Falls, a nationally renowned hiking trail that weaves through evergreens and passes a series of spectacular waterfalls. The main campground sits on South Fork Silver Creek and has a mix of forested tent sites, cabins, RV spots and a horse camp. Bonus: You can bring Fido (seven of the 14 cabins are pet-friendly). Other amenities include firewood and ice for sale, easy access to nearby hiking paths, restrooms, showers, and a playground. HEE HEE ILLAHEE RV RESORT Built in 2006 and owned by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Hee Hee Illahee RV Resort offers pet-friendly RV sites for weekend or extendedduration stays. Located in Salem, the comfortfocused amenities range from a seasonal pool and ping-pong tables to a fitness room and a library. There’s also a playground for family fun and plenty of community gathering spaces, from a heated gazebo with a barbecue grill to horseshoe pits for summerafternoon games. INTO THE WOODS Sleep just steps away from vineyards at this premier destination made for travelers who love wine and adventure. Located about 10 miles north of Salem, when you set up your RV at this elegantly landscaped site, you’ll be a short walk from Willamette Valley Vineyards, one of the state’s most renowned wineries. Try the seasonal food-pairings menu in the estate tasting room, or sip pinot under the stars at your wine-country campground. RIVERVIEW PARK This peaceful campground on the Willamette River is exclusively for bicyclists and boaters. Open annually from March 15 through October 15, the five campsites are popular with adventure enthusiasts who either paddle the Willamette River Water Trail or cycle the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway. The idyllic but minimalist campsites each have a picnic table and a bike rack, and there is a water tap and a bike-repair station located at the entrance. After you swap sojourn stories with fellow campers, walk one block to the cafes and restaurants in the charming town of Independence. Polk County Tourism Alliance Black Rock Mountain Biking Area 11 TravelSalem.com
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