Greenwaters Loop

The Greenwaters Loop Trail offers a scenic 30-mile journey around Hills Creek Reservoir near Oakridge, Oregon. This easy to moderate route, popular among mountain bikers and hikers, begins at Greenwaters Park and features a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, old-growth forests, and panoramic lake views, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a diverse and accessible adventure in the Willamette National Forest.

Trail Summary

Trailhead: Located 0.2 miles east of Oakridge, Oregon

Length: Approximately 30 miles

Elevation: Minimal Elevation Changes

Difficulty: Classified as easy to moderate

Surface Conditions: Old-growth forest paths to paved roads and fast-rolling gravel

Amenitites: Greenwaters Park offers parking, restrooms, and picnic areas at the trailhead

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Trailhead and Route Length

Located 0.2 miles east of Oakridge, Oregon, the Greenwaters Loop Trail begins and ends at Greenwaters Park off Highway 58. This circular route spans approximately 30 miles as it encircles Hills Creek Reservoir. The trail crosses the Middle Fork Willamette River via the Jim Tharpe Memorial Bridge, offering a picturesque start to the journey through old-growth forest.

Elevation & Difficulty

The trail features minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for riders of various skill levels. The most notable incline is a 5% grade climb near Hills Creek Dam. Classified as easy to moderate, the route’s difficulty is primarily influenced by its length rather than technical challenges. The mix of paved and gravel surfaces provides a diverse riding experience, with the first 14 miles after leaving the park being paved and featuring gentle rolling hills.

Surface Conditions and Scenery

The trail offers a diverse landscape, transitioning from old-growth forest paths to paved roads and fast-rolling gravel. The first and last miles wind through lush, mossy woods along the Middle Fork Willamette River. After leaving the park, riders enjoy 14 miles of paved, twisting roads with an overhanging canopy of trees, providing peek-a-boo views of Hills Creek Reservoir. The remaining miles feature gravel surfaces that can be wet with some dips and divots, but still allow for fast riding. Throughout the journey, cyclists are treated to scenic vistas of the 2,735-acre reservoir and its 44 miles of forested shoreline.

OAKRIDGE

Amenities and Best Seasons

Greenwaters Park offers parking, restrooms, and picnic areas at the trailhead, but riders should be prepared for limited services along the route. The trail is best enjoyed during warm winter and spring days, offering a pleasant “winter escape” ride with minimal traffic. While accessible year-round, it’s recommended to avoid the loop from Labor Day through Memorial Day due to increased traffic around the lake. Riders are advised to bring a red blinky light for visibility, especially in tree-covered areas, and to be self-sufficient as there are no food or water sources along the trail.

Sources:

Dirty Freehub, RideWithGPS, Forest Service

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