Best fall bike rides in and around Portland
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Experience fall on two wheels (or with your four-legged friend). Photo: Meira Gebel/Axios
The hills, forests and waterways are all alive with color right now, and they'll probably get even more vibrant in the coming week. And what better way to experience peak leaf peeping season than on a bike?
Why it matters: Fall is fleeting and wetter weather is on the horizon. Get out there and enjoy it while it lasts.
Here are five bike trails we love for basking in autumn's glory.
Sandy River Delta
Troutdale
Difficulty: Intermediate
Also known as 1,000 Acres, this spot is popular among Portland dog owners who let their furry friends romp around off-leash. The three-mile outer loop is perfect for taking a spin on two wheels, though, and features both stellar river views and leaf-filled tunnels on a mostly dirt trail.
- Beware — it can get muddy after some rain. But that only adds to the fun.
Marine Drive Trail
Portland
Difficulty: Easy
Try to count how many planes take off from Portland International Airport on this long, 10-mile out-and-back paved path — that's if you aren't distracted by the yellow and orange hues reflecting off the Columbia River.
Lacamas Regional Park
Camas, Washington
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
If you're craving some excitement, this is the place.
- There are several mountain biking trails that zig and zag up tight, dusty paths and through thickly wooded forest, and others that are perfect for more intermediate riders with only slight elevation gains.
Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail
Washougal, Washington
Difficulty: Easy
This eight-mile, mostly flat (and paved!) ride starts off at Steamboat Landing Park and leads east along the Columbia River.
- A picturesque Mount Hood isn't the only draw — pull over to spot nesting bald eagles and American kestrels as well as other migratory birds making their way to nearby Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
Eastbank Esplanade
Portland
Difficulty: Easy
Don't knock staying close to home. The three-mile loop that starts at Tom McCall Waterfront Park and goes over both the Hawthorne and Steel bridges is an excellent way to scope out the changing colors along the Willamette while falling in love with this city again.