Ditch the Pavement and Take the Road Less Traveled
Gravel Riding in Bend, Oregon
With thousands of miles of gravel, paved roads, singletrack and some of the loveliest scenery in the country right in our own backyard, gravel riding around Bend is all about accessible adventure by human powered pedaling and two wheels. With endless breathtaking views, accessible year-round routes, and a wide diversity of terrain from smooth to technical, you’re guaranteed to find a gravel route that checks all the right boxes on your wishlist.
Shorter routes, multi-day bikepacking adventures, and full day rides, take your pick because they’re all here. And you don’t need to be a gravel guru to appreciate and enjoy the terrain. Routes like Big Red and Westside Tour pack in great beginner-friendly gravel riding.
Experienced adventurers looking for a multi-day adventure will find plenty of options for bike-packing routes through the Central Cascades and Deschutes National Forest. What better way to get off the beaten path, clear your head, and spend the night under star-filled skies than on two wheels.
Then there’s the cream of the crop, the one bikeway to rule them all, the Cascades Gravel Scenic Bikeway. In fact, it’s the only one of its kind in Oregon. This five-star gravel ride showcases spectacular scenery and varied terrain and routes that will get your legs pedaling and your mind exploring.
Renting gravel bikes in Bend is a definite option. If you’re curious about gravel bikes and new to the sport, or don’t feel like bringing your bike with you, check in with the experts at Sunnyside Sports, Project Bike, or Web Cyclery for rentals, sales, local route intel, conditions, and service.
For a complete selection of gravel routes in Bend and the surrounding area, head over to Dirty Freehub, where their mission is to keep you smiling and riding dirty. These guys are the gurus of gravel riding and offer tons of routes, maps, tips, and a podcast to keep you stoked on gravel even while you’re in the car or at work.