Oregon Three Rivers
Overview
The Oregon Three Rivers route showcases three of the finest singletracks in Oregon:
Middle Fork Willamette Trail (~30 miles)
North Umpqua Trail (~80 miles)
Mackenzie River Trail (~30 miles)
It’s possible to link all three of these routes, without the aid of shuttles or support. It even includes an off-highway route that can be used to get into and out of Eugene, OR. A number of singletrack options are available both between the river trails and as side options.
Route details
This route currently holds the distinction of being the most rideable singletrack route on bikepacking.net. The nature of trails following a river is part of it (think gradual climbing/descending). Another is just the nature of trails in the Cascades — smooth and buff.
Bikepacking on any of these trails is highly recommended for people getting into bikepacking or those not wanting to do much hike-a-bike. Downed trees can be an issue, so be sure to check locally to see which trails have been logged out before you go. Also look out for two more Oregon obstacles: poison oak and mosquitoes.
Don’t let the easy rating fool you, though, even for experienced riders this is an awesome tour.
Take the big bus
Besides the off-highway route into Eugene another great option is the Lane Transportation District’s city bus that runs all the way out to the Mackenzie Ranger Station. For $1.50 it’ll take you some 50 miles to either start out your trip on singletrack, or end it with an easy ride back into town.
GPS Data
ORST Full Trip.gpxTrip Reports
Oregon Singletrack Tour CH1 (Willamette River)
Oregon Singletrack Tour CH2 (North Umpqua River)
Oregon Singletrack Tour CH3 (Mackenzie River)
Links
North Umpqua Trail – a great site from the BLM.
Willamette Mtn Mercantile – friendly bike shop and outfitter in Oakridge, OR (on the route).