Sundrenched trails beckon high desert adventurers as the days grow longer this time of year. That means you can ski your heart out all morning then hop on a bike in the afternoon, making it a multisport kind of day. Perhaps you simply prefer pedals over poles and just can’t wait until summer to feel the kiss of tires on trails. In that case, dust off those cobwebs from your gravel bike and set out for an early-season cycling adventure. Enjoy a leisurely spin with scenic views or challenge yourself to a bit of lava rock tech mixed in with miles of flowy dirt singletrack. Whether you’re new to adventure cycling or a seasoned vet, there are many places to explore on your gravel steed.
Maston Outer Loop
Located about 20 minutes north of Bend, outside of Tumalo, the Maston Trail System can be accessed from Newcomb Road off Cline Falls Highway. Enjoy the 12-mile outer loop by riding counterclockwise from the parking lot and taking right turns at every major trail intersection. The route features smooth, fast dirt singletrack and a spicy spur out to the river rim on the Rockbar trail, about 2.5 miles in. This technical section with armored rock is sure to tickle the fancy of those looking for a thrill and provides a dazzling view of the Deschutes River winding through the canyon below. Most of the ride is easy to moderate, however the rocky sections are more advanced on a gravel bike. Swooping trails will lead to stunning glimpses of the Cascade Range as you loop back to the trailhead. Extend the adventure by exploring any of the trails within the Maston trail network. Stop into The Bite food truck lot in Tumalo for après nibbles and sips.
Distance: 12 miles, loop
Surface: Singletrack dirt trail with technical rock features
Difficulty: Moderate to advanced
Elevation: +500/-500 feet
Parking: Maston Trailhead
Deschutes River Trail
River Run Reach + Awbrey Reach
Meandering along the Deschutes River, this easy-to-access ride offers views of the mountains, overlooks Archie Briggs Canyon, and has plenty of places to stop and enjoy your surroundings. A great choice for those new to gravel biking, the trail features a wide, compacted gravel surface and some short but punchy elevation changes. With lovely options for taking a break along the riverbank by Sawyer Park, the River Run and Awbrey Reach sections of the Deschutes River Trail make for a fun and scenic out-and-back ride. Head north from Pioneer Park, cross the footbridge over the Deschutes, then follow the compacted gravel trail for a sweet little escapade right from town. You’ll want to watch out for flying golf balls as you pass through River’s Edge Golf Course. The trail is popular for walking and biking, so be mindful of other users and share the trail kindly.
Distance: 10.7 miles, out and back
Surface: Wide, compacted gravel trail
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: +440/-440 feet
Parking: Pioneer Park
Horse Butte Coyote Loop
Flowing through desert sagebrush and lava rock outcroppings, this singletrack loop serves up mountain views and a bit of rocky technical riding. On Bend’s eastside, the Horse Butte area is often accessible throughout the year, depending on snowfall and freeze-thaw cycles. Take time to enjoy many moments of awe at expansive vantage points. This loop is rideable in both directions, with the counterclockwise loop beginning on Arnold Ice Cave Trail adjacent to the trailhead parking area. Take a left on Swamp Wells Trail, then hop on Coyote Loop Trail to make your way back to where you started. With an exciting little switchback section, this is a great ride for those looking to challenge their gravel-bike skills. The Horse Butte area offers many miles of trails and route options, as well as gravel and paved roads for those looking for a bigger ride. You could even navigate a road route from town out to the trails, making for a longer, car-free adventure.
Distance: 9.8 miles, loop
Surface: Singletrack dirt trail with technical rock features
Difficulty: Moderate to advanced
Elevation: +649/-649 feet
Parking: Horse Butte Trailhead
Know Before You Go
It’s a dreamy time of year to hit the trails, as they’re often less dusty and more hard-packed than later in the season. Weather can change quickly on the high desert, so you’ll want to check the forecast, dress in layers according to the range of temperatures. Be mindful of trail-user etiquette by not riding in muddy conditions. You can find trail maps and GPS info on apps like Ride with GPS and Strava, or websites such as bendtrails.org. Be sure to ride within your skillset and, as with any outdoor foray, know before you go.
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