McKenzie River Trail

The McKenzie River Trail in Oregon is a renowned 26.5-mile mountain biking route that offers a diverse and scenic experience through old-growth forests, lava fields, and alongside the picturesque McKenzie River. As reported by AllTrails and the U.S. Forest Service, this popular trail features challenging terrain, stunning natural attractions, and is accessible year-round, making it a bucket-list destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Trail Summary

Trailhead: Multiple locations(see below)

Length: Approximately 26 miles

Elevation: Down 1800 ft. overall with 1000 ft. of climbing

Difficulty: Classified as moderate to advanced

Surface Conditions: Smooth single track to jagged lava rock

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Trailhead Locations and Access Points

The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail offers multiple access points along its 26.5-mile length, making it easy for riders to plan trips of varying distances and difficulties. The trail has 11 clearly marked trailheads accessible from Highway 126, providing convenient entry points for mountain bikers. Key access points include:

Upper McKenzie River Trailhead: The trail’s northern terminus, located about one mile east of McKenzie Bridge.
Clear Lake Resort and Clear Lake Day Use: Offers access to the scenic Clear Lake area.
Tamolitch Blue Pool Trailhead: A popular mid-point access, though it experiences heavy use, especially during spring and summer months.
McKenzie River Trailhead at Paradise Campground: Provides access to the lower, less technical sections of the trail.
Lower McKenzie River Trailhead: The southern terminus of the trail.

For those seeking to avoid the most technical upper sections, starting at the Trail Bridge Reservoir near Tamolitch Pool is a popular option. Additionally, shuttle services are available from local outfitters, allowing riders to complete one-way trips without the need for a car shuttle.

Elevation Changes and Terrain Features

The McKenzie River Trail offers a diverse range of terrain and elevation changes, providing an engaging experience for mountain bikers of various skill levels. The trail descends gradually from its upper terminus to the lower trailhead, with a total elevation loss of approximately 1,800 feet over its 26.5-mile length. The trail’s surface varies significantly along its course, alternating between smooth, flowy singletrack and challenging sections of jagged lava rock. The upper portion of the trail, particularly near Clear Lake, features technical lava fields that may require dismounting and walking in some areas. As riders progress downstream, they encounter a mix of old-growth forest trails, root-strewn sections, and occasional rock gardens. The lower half of the trail generally becomes less technical, offering more flow and speed potential. Notable terrain features include bridges crossing various streams and rivers, as well as sections that wind through ancient lava flows, providing a unique riding experience that showcases the region’s volcanic history.

MCKENZIE BRIDGE

Difficulty and Skill Level

The McKenzie River Trail offers a range of difficulties, catering to intermediate and advanced mountain bikers. The upper 11.8 miles from the Upper Trailhead to Trail Bridge Reservoir are considered advanced, with technical lava rock sections that can be challenging and fatiguing. Many riders may need to dismount and walk their bikes through these rocky areas.The lower 14.2 miles from Trail Bridge Reservoir to the Lower McKenzie River Trailhead are rated as moderate difficulty, suitable for intermediate riders. This section features a more forgiving surface with hard-packed dirt and a thin layer of fir needles, although there are still some rocky descents, roots, and tight turns to navigate.While the trail trends downhill overall, dropping approximately 1,800 feet, it also includes around 1,000 feet of climbing, so riders should be prepared for some uphill pedaling. The length of the trail can also be challenging for some, but shuttle services are available to allow for shorter rides focusing on specific sections that best match a rider’s skill level.

Sources:

Mountaineers, Eugene Cascades & Coast, Forest Service, Bend Trails

Fatmap, AllTrails, Statesman Journal, Bike Mountain, Back Country Pilot

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