Ask any Oregon mountain biker their favorite season and many will say fall. The dust has settled, the air is cool and the trails are in their best shape of the year. Across all seven regions of the state, single-track beckons – from beginner-friendly loops to technical all-day adventures. Most rides last well into the fall season, but snow can surprise you at higher elevations, so bring layers, check the forecast and get ready to enjoy some of the best riding of the year.
1. Flagline Trail to Swampy Lakes Sno-Park, Bend
Each year riders in Bend circle one date on the calendar: August 15, when the Flagline Trail reopens after a summer closure for elk calving. The payoff is worth the wait. Riders can grab a shuttle with Cog Wild up to the start at Dutchman Sno-Park, beginning with a steady climb before crescendoing into a gloriously sustained downhill through pine forests and alpine meadows. Create a one-way of roughly a dozen miles by connecting Flagline, Middle Flagline and Flagline Tie trails back to the Swampy Lakes Sno-Park Trailhead, or extend the ride via the Swampy Lakes Loop or Swede Ridge Trail network. To truly earn your beers, create an all-day epic outing by linking up trails all the way back to Bend. Keep in mind that Flagline is a fleeting treat — usually open until mid- to late fall or until the first big snow closes down the high country. Rentals, expert advice and maps can be found at Pine Mountain Sports before your departure.
2. Post Canyon, Hood River
Hood River’s Post Canyon is a labyrinth of flowy single-track, gripping descents and playful lines. Start at Family Man, a skills park that’s recently been updated with more trails and features to cater to riders of all skill levels. Once warmed up, choose from a number of uphill routes or plan a shuttle to the top of the network and bomb downhill via options like Float On, a super-flowy ride with high berms and high adrenaline, before continuing with more of the same on locals’ favorite 101 Kleeway. The network in Post Canyon is vast with 86 named trails, allowing for any skill level to keep the stoke high through fall. Grab a bike or info from Mountain View Cycles in Hood River.
3. Tower Trail, Pendleton
Situated to the southwest of the Pendleton airport, the Pendleton Adventure Trails Recreational Area offers riders over 20 miles of single-track and wide-open Eastern Oregon views. Hit the Tower Trail for some fun jumps, drops and sweeping berms — less experienced riders can easily bypass these — before connecting to Tim’s Trail at the bottom for an additional up-and-down ride across the rolling hills. For gear and trail advice, check out Scott’s Cycle and Sports in Hermiston.
4. Alpine and Dead Mountain Trails, Oakridge
Designated as a Gold-Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, Oakridge is one of just six such destinations in the world. That means world-class trails for all levels, and fall is the season to ride them. The legendary Alpine Trail offers a classic descent with ridge views, fern-filled gullies and fast corners, stretching over 15 miles of joy-filled single-track. For something shorter but equally fun, the Dead Mountain Trail blends flowy machine-built berms with fast, rolling terrain on a 5.6-mile mostly downhill route. Stop by Willamette Mountain Mercantile & Oakridge Bike Shop for rentals, maps and gear.
5. Whiskey Run Trails, Near Bandon
On the South Coast near Bandon, the Whiskey Run Trails deliver over 30 miles of loamy single-track that feels custom-built for fall. Gradual climbs, ocean views on clear days and a dense coastal forest make this network a must for riders of all abilities. Try Wing and a Prayer, a 2-mile intermediate loop where bald eagles and hawks often cruise overhead. With so many interlocking trails, you can connect to create short laps or spend the whole day exploring. Grab gear or trail info at Blue Sky Bike Shop in nearby Coos Bay.
6. Powell Butte Loop, Portland
You don’t need to leave the city to score fall dirt. The Powell Butte Loop, part of the 611-acre Powell Butte Nature Park in Portland, offers a 5-mile spin with rolling climbs and open meadows that showcase Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens on crisp days. It’s a beginner-friendly outing with plenty of connectors to stretch the ride longer — offering a perfect trail option to squeeze in after work or on the weekend. Tune up your ride or grab supplies at River City Bicycles in Southeast Portland.
7. North Umpqua Trail, Near Roseburg
The North Umpqua Trail traces nearly 80 miles along its namesake river, serving up some of the most diverse riding in Oregon. Choose your section: the Tioga segment for challenging climbs and thrilling descents or Dread and Terror for lofty views — and some sections that might test your fear of heights — through lush old-growth forest. Wherever you start, expect waterfalls, mossy corridors and the constant soundtrack of the river. The North Umpqua Trail is one of the best in the state for a reason. For route information, riding conditions and to gear up, call Canyon Creek Bicycles in Roseburg.
