BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN PORTLAND

Cruise the Willamette River Loop

Portland and bikes go together like coffee and rainy mornings — it just works. One of the most iconic ways to see the city is via the Willamette River Loop, a scenic circuit that connects both sides of the city with bridges, parks, and a laid-back vibe that’s pure Portland. It’s flat, easy to follow, and loaded with cool detour spots, so it’s a great first-day route to shake out your legs.

Top stops along the loop

• Eastbank Esplanade: floating pathway right on the water

• Tilikum Crossing: a car-free bridge just for bikes, peds, and transit

• Tom McCall Waterfront Park: great for a picnic or riverside chill

• Hawthorne Bridge: classic Portland skyline photo spot

• Cartopia: food cart pod with killer eats

The full loop is about 11 miles and perfect for casual touring. If you want to stretch it out, you can connect north toward Cathedral Park or south into the Sellwood neighborhood. There are signs and markings nearly the whole way, and plenty of friendly locals to help if you get turned around. Bring a lock — Portland’s bike racks are everywhere, and you’ll definitely want to park and explore some breweries or coffee shops.

This route’s all about the vibe. You’ll ride past kayakers, murals, local musicians, and probably a dog in sunglasses riding in a cargo bike. It’s a solid intro to why Portland’s bike culture is known worldwide.

Pedal through parks and quirky zones

What makes Portland special is how fast you can go from urban neighborhoods to peaceful green spaces — all on your bike. The city is covered in bike boulevards and low-traffic roads that link up beautifully with major parks and forest trails. If you’re touring with a flexible itinerary, this is your sweet spot. Mix in some hills, local eats, and wild scenery — you’ve got yourself a ride worth writing home about.

Best routes through local gems

• Mt. Tabor Loop: climb a volcano in the middle of the city

• Sellwood to Reed College: shady streets and laid-back cafés

• Alameda Ridge Ride: big views of Mt. Hood and gorgeous homes

• Forest Park Firelanes: gravel-friendly climbs in city limits

• Ladd’s Addition Spin: rose gardens and roundabouts galore

The Mt. Tabor ride is a fan favorite. You’re literally climbing an extinct volcano with epic city views at the top. It’s short but punchy, and the ride up is rewarded with twisty descents and a relaxed vibe at the summit. For a longer adventure, try a loop from Ladd’s Addition through Sellwood and back via the Springwater Corridor Trail — about 18 miles of mixed urban and greenway riding with lots of bakery temptations along the way.

Forest Park is also a must if you're packing a gravel bike or fat tires. You’ll be amazed at how wild it feels just minutes from downtown. These routes are best for confident riders with decent fitness, but you can ride at your own pace and soak in the calm. Just keep your eyes open — there are deer, owls, and maybe even a bikepacker hammock-napping in the trees.

Go big on mileage and adventure

If you came to Portland with panniers and pedal ambition, you’re in luck. The region is a hub for longer bike tours and day trips that roll through stunning valleys, riverside highways, and vineyard-filled countryside. Whether you're doing a self-supported mini-tour or just racking up distance on a day ride, these routes are dialed for cyclists who want both beauty and challenge.

Epic rides for long-haul cyclists

• Banks-Vernonia State Trail: 42 miles round trip of car-free bliss

• Historic Columbia River Highway: waterfalls, tunnels, and mountain magic

• Portland to Hood River: ambitious ride with huge views

• Marine Drive Path to Troutdale: riverside ride with airport flyovers

• Sauvie Island Loop: flat, scenic farmland with birdwatching

The Historic Columbia River ride is arguably one of the best in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll pass waterfalls like Multnomah, ride through mossy forests, and get that “wow” factor around every curve. It’s popular with tourers and can be done as a loop or out-and-back, depending on your stamina. If you’re really pushing it, extend your tour east toward Hood River and stay overnight — there are great cyclist-friendly lodges and epic food stops.

Another gem is the Banks-Vernonia Trail, a smooth rail-to-trail path that’s great for all levels. Think wooden trestle bridges, wildlife sightings, and no cars — just you, the trees, and maybe a friendly llama or two near the farms. Bring snacks and a camera. You’ll want both.

For an easy but satisfying half-day tour, Sauvie Island delivers peaceful vibes and wide-open skies. It's also a solid loop for birdwatchers or riders who want distance without climbing. And yes, there are pumpkin patches and berry stands depending on the season — very Portland.