There’s no shortage of mountain biking options in central Oregon, but can you really afford to pass on a big, challenging loop around a volcano? The enormous caldera of Newberry Crater is one of Oregon’s gotta-see-it geographic marvels. And it happens to be ringed by a lung-busting 22-mile, mostly singletrack trail that will take you up to one of the state’s most panoramic views.
Newberry Crater was formed when the summit of the volcano collapsed, crashing down to create a miles-wide caldera sheltering two beautiful lakes (Paulina Lake and East Lake), both above 6,000 feet in elevation. The caldera changed shape several times over the years — and, yes, it could “reform” (i.e., erupt) again; Newberry’s still considered an active volcano.
Your ride starts with a climb on Forest Road FS-500, a paved road that will take you up 1,500 feet over about four miles. Along the way, take a detour to climb up to Paulina Peak, which is just under 8,000 feet. Why bother? Because it’s the volcano’s highest point and provides panoramic views of the caldera, the Cascades from Mt. Shasta to Mt. Adams, and much of the rest of Central Oregon.
Once you’ve caught your breath and loaded up on scenic shots for your social media feed, get back on the singletrack, heading counterclockwise around the caldera. The dramatic views will continue, including of East and Paulina lakes over your left shoulder. The climbs and descents keep coming too, and you’ll run across sections of pumice and lava that’ll require your full attention.
A particularly tough stretch crests at about mile 18. Then comes your reward — a long, satisfying descent back to the trailhead. (The trailhead is a popular place for bikers and hikers, so be alert and courteous.)
Newberry Crater is about 20 miles south of Bend, so you know how to wrap up this day. Grab some food and a drink at the Paulina Lake Lodge Restaurant and Bar near the trailhead, or head north to Deschutes Brewery (classic), Crux Fermentation Project (hip), Brother Jon’s (locals’ favorite), or a dozen other places where you can sit back and scroll through all those photos you took up at Paulina Peak.
Riding Season
Most of the ride is above 7,000 feet, so summer through early fall is your snow-free window.
