This ride starts from the same point as Knebal Springs; you can consider Fifteenmile Loop the same ride, but on a different scale: a bit of climbing, a long drop followed by an equally long climb; a downhill sprint to the finish. It’s just that Fifteenmile stretches out each of those segments – and puts you in an almost entirely different riding environment. This is one of the most remote backcountry trails in the area.
To get to the trailhead, drive south from Hood River on Highway 35 for 25 miles and turn left onto Forest Service Road 44. After 5.2 miles, veer right to stay on FS44/Dufur Valley Road and drive 3.5 miles. Turn left and park at the Eightmile Creek Trailhead. A Northwest Recreation Pass is required for parking; there is no potable water, and restrooms are available at Eightmile Campground a little farther down the road.
From the trailhead, the Fifteenmile “lollipop” route heads south across FR44 and then descends east toward Dufur. As we indicated above, this change of direction gives the ride an entirely different feel in a totally different zone.
But you start with a climb almost immediately, following Eightmile Creek for a few miles as it tumbles along through the trees, topping out at a rocky escarpment. All told, it’s about 700 feet over 3 miles, and it rolls up and down as you go – but mostly up.
Once you top out, you’ll want to stop briefly to get ready for the next bit. Adjust your helmet, straighten the goggles and tighten your shoes… and then drop into 7 miles of wildly fun downhill. It’ll be like the best, and longest amusement park ride ever; you’re likely to find yourself whooping – voluntarily or otherwise – on the way down.
As you descend, you’ll pass through Fifteenmile Campground (be polite) and over the creek; here the landscape changes dramatically. Ponderosas and scraggly white oaks replace moss and Douglas firs. Unique geologic formations bubble up out of the needled forest floor, and the trail just keeps dropping away in front of you. Wallow in the pleasure.
OK, back to reality: As much fun as the extended downhill was, the climb out is equally grueling. It’s 2,400 feet over 7 miles, give or take, and it will test even the hardiest. But make the best of it – it’s making you stronger every pedal stroke. If you’re lucky, you can stop and treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat huckleberry stop along the way.
Once you’ve worked your way out of the hole, enjoy a three-mile glide back to the trailhead; you’ve definitely earned it.
And, just like the Knebal Springs ride, you should consider a stop in the Parkdale area, either coming or going. You can get a great meal at the Crooked Tree Tavern, part of the Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, or indulge in some high-quality coffee or tea, fresh-baked goods or a meal at the Blue Canoe Café. If you’d like to stick around overnight (and ride a trail each day?), the Old Parkdale Inn is a rambling, gracious old home surrounded by lush gardens.
Notes: If you’re looking to get a shorter ride in the same area, just park at Fifteenmile Campground and ride this as a loop instead of a lollipop; it’ll cut the distance roughly in half. And if you’re doing this ride in the summer, get an early start to beat the heat on the long climb in the last half of the ride.
