Explore scenic trails, with incredible views of the majestic Cascades as your backdrop, while unwinding at Bend vacation homes. Edging the Deschutes National Forest, the area offers miles of sweet double and single-track trails, creating a haven for mountain bike enthusiasts. Many routes meander through forest on old logging roads leaving a legacy to be enjoyed by fat-tire riders.
1. Swede Ridge Loop
Located 16 miles west of Bend, the 9-mile loop begins at Swampy Lakes Sno-Park. Access to the trail head is found at the north end of the parking lot. This single-track trail provides a modest climb at the start, but drops down through forest and skirts Swampy Lake running out to Swede Ridge shelter offering amazing views. Make a right on the Forest Service road or re-trace your tracks to go back to the Sno-Park. Reach Swampy Lakes from Cascade Lakes Highway 46; the route is well-marked with signs.
2. Deschutes River Trail
Choose from single track or dirt and gravel roads on this 10.5-mile long route. Your best option is to hit the roads, as the single track trail is frequented by hikers and horseback riders, especially on weekends. Forest Service roads provide river access from Lava Island, Dillon and Benham Falls which follow sections of the main trail. Bicycle-branded marker posts identify the trail and map boards at major trail heads indicate the route. Located 7.5 miles west of Bend, take Highway 46 to Forest Service road 41 and follow the signs to Lava Island Falls' parking lot to reach the trail head.
3. Phil's/Jim's Trail Loop
At first glance the trail appears to suffer from split personalities, as it connects with Kent's, Voodoo, Woops and Ben's trails along the way. Whichever route you take you'll enjoy an excellent, scenic ride on this moderately difficult 7.5-mile loop with two out-and-back spurs. Initially, you're faced with a gradual uphill climb with two steep sections, after that the trail begins to flatten out. When you reach Forest Service Road 300, you can continue up Phil's trail to wind down the single track Woops Trail, guaranteed to get you grinning. You can drive or ride 2.5 miles west of Bend on Skyliner's Road to reach a paved road to your left, continue for another 0.5 miles to reach the trail head where the loop begins.
4. Tumalo Falls Trail
Head into a wooded area then emerge onto slopes covered with new growth trees and Manzanita bushes. Continuing along to the falls, the trail hugs the hillside offering magnificent views of dominant rim rock cliffs. Admire the 97-foot waterfall from a viewing point directly above. Some sections of the trail are wide while other portions are winding single track, making for an awesome adventure. Trail head access is from Skyliner Road, follow signs to Tumalo Falls parking area.
Tip
For a detailed map of mountain bike trails check out Bend Oregon's website.
To find the best Bend vacation home close to the trails, visit Vamoose.com where you can sort by location, size, price and amenities.