If you are looking for beautiful gravel routes in the United States, you don't have to look very far. Almost every one of the 50 states has beautiful routes for going off-road. Of course, Kansas is a well-known location, particularly because of Unbound. Yet many other states will shout that they have even better routes. We did a search and ended up in Oregon and specifically in the region around Bend. The gravel routes in Bend are finger-licking good. From easier routes to more challenging ones, there is something for every gravel enthusiast. We'll give you a brief introduction and before you know it, you'll be googling flights towards Oregon.
A piece of topography
The United States is a huge country. That almost automatically means that individual states are pretty 'huge'. This also applies to Oregon. This state on the West Coast, north of California and bordering the states of Washington and Idaho, is almost six times (!) the size of the Netherlands. Its capital is Salem (not to be confused with Salem on the east coast) but the most famous place is surely Portland (and the attached Beaverton, headquarters of Nike). Oregon has fully embraced the Douglas fir as a state symbol and the University of Oregon uses it almost everywhere. This is also reflected in the rest of the landscape, where green forests, combined with small rivers, set the tone. (By the way, there is a whole section on Oregon's trees. You can find it here) Roughly in the middle of the state, a three-hour drive from Portland you'll find Bend.
Gravel paradise Bend
Bend, Oregon, is a gravel lover's paradise. The town of about 75,000 inhabitants, has an impressive array of gravel trails for all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gravel rider, Bend's varied terrain, from smooth gravel to more technical trails is a true paradise. Known for its stunning views, the region offers hundreds of kilometres of gravel trails, as well as singletracks and possibly routes geared towards the road cyclist. Although possibly still unknown in the Netherlands, the gravel routes in Bend are to write home about immediately. So I'll do just that here.
Beauty in the landscape
Graveling in Bend is not just about the miles and distance; it is about being one with one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. The region's gravel trails are accessible all year round. As a result, you can actually see a different gravel landscape in front of you every season. After all, the difference between winter and the 'Indian summer' are like a difference of night and day.
Gravel routes in Bend
For those who have just started graveling or the experienced gravelist looking for a relaxed experience, there are a number of routes to choose from such as 'Big Red' and the 'Westside Tour'. These shorter routes are perfect for a quick getaway or a day of exploration.
A highlight of Bend's gravel scene is the Cascades Gravel Scenic Bikeway - a unique route in Oregon. This exceptional gravel route has a mix of spectacular scenery and varied terrain, leaving you completely 'in love with Oregon' by the end of your ride. (or Bend, whichever you prefer). One of the routes I would like to highlight is the 'Poke the Bear', (the name alone).
About 50 kilometres long and with 85% of gravel, this route is perfect for a morning or an afternoon on the bike. You have some altimeters to cover, but you get a lot in return. The huge views of Mount Jefferson and the Three sisters, to name a few.
Useful tips and tricks
No gravel bike? No problem! Bend offers convenient gravel bike rentals. Whether you're new to the sport or travelling without your bike, local experts at Sunnyside Sports (highly recommended for the name alone). Project Bike or Web Cyclery are ready to help with rentals, sales and valuable local route information.
For additional info far all of gravel routes around Bend, Oregon, visit Dirty Freehub. They offer a wide selection of routes, maps and tips, as well as a podcast to keep you engaged and excited about the region.
For more info on the region and routes, click here
