Boat and Bike in Eastern Oregon

April 8, 2013 (Updated July 5, 2013)
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We named it Hells Canyon to scare people – but folks who appreciate jaw-dropping scenery and rugged rivers will want to tackle Eastern Oregon head first.

There’s no better way to start exploring the region than on one of Oregon’s two designated Scenic Bikeways. Take on all of the Grand Tour Scenic Bikeway’s 135 miles, or pick a segment for a more leisurely ride. You’ll cover some of the same route traveled by pioneers on the Oregon Trail, passing majestic mountain views of the Elkhorn Range, the Blue Mountains and the Eagle Caps of the Wallowa Mountains. Or challenge yourself on the Old West Scenic Bikeway, a 174-mile loop that passes a spectrum of scenery ranging from ponderosa pines and grassy landscapes to hot springs and fossil beds. Contact Ride Cycling Tours to set up a guided trip of either bikeway.

Rest your legs in historic Baker City, where you can fuel up with a burger and one of eight fresh ales on tap at Barley Brown’s Brew Pub. Get ready for another day of adventure with a suite at the Geiser Grand Hotel, a historic landmark hotel located on Main Street in Baker City.

The next day, it’s time to explore Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America. Get a river’s-eye view of the canyon as you charge through whitewater on a thrilling jet boat ride on the Wild and Scenic Snake River. Hells Canyon Adventures offers a variety of half-day, full-day and overnight excursions.

Wrap up your Eastern Oregon adventure with a visit to Peterson’s Gallery and Chocolatier. Browse through local art and sample the handcrafted handmade truffles, ganache and drinking chocolate made daily on-site.


Editor’s note: In Oregon, a bicycle is legally considered a vehicle, and the same Oregon road laws apply. Please “be seen” and practice safe riding. Vehicle traffic, farm equipment and narrow shoulders exist on many Oregon roads, and you may find that construction projects, traffic or other events may cause road conditions or signage to differ from the map results, ride descriptions and directions. For travel options plus weather and road conditions, visit TripCheck.com, call 511 (in Oregon only), 800.977.6368 or 503.588.2941. Routes listed on this website are for informational purposes and intended as a reference guide only.

About The
Author

Emily Forsha
Emily is a digital marketing pro living in TrackTown USA. You’re likely to find her cheering on the Oregon Ducks, running on Eugene’s riverfront path, cooking up new recipes in her kitchen or road tripping around the state with her husband and two boys.