willamettevalley.org | 13 MOUNTAIN BIKE THE FORESTED FOOTHILLS SURROUNDING THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY The Willamette Valley is bookended by a pair of mountain ranges—the Coast Range to the west and the Cascades to the east—both offering mountain bike trails through forested wilderness. Popular paths include the mountain bike trails at Alsea Falls Recreation Site, which promise rollers, berms, rock gardens, banked turns and exposed-root features for an exciting challenge through a lush, second-growth forest. In the world-class West Cascades, Westf ir sits at the base of the thrilling, 15-mile (24-kilometer) Alpine Trail. Nearby, Oakridge has been dubbed a gold-level destination by the International Mountain Bicycling Association—making it one of only six areas in the world to receive the honor. GRAVEL RIDING OFFERS NEW CHALLENGES, SENSE OF SOLITUDE Every day, cyclists are taking their adventures off pavement and onto gravel paths for a quieter experience that bridges the divide between urban rides and forested adventures. And at the western edge of the Willamette Valley, Oregon Coast Range foothills offer plenty of opportunities to hit the trail for a mixed-terrain ride. Gravel rides throughout the region pass award-winning wineries, cut through acres of farmland, cross covered bridges that date back nearly a century and visit some of Oregon’s most charming towns. Hit the trail for a mixed-terrain ride. Gallon House Bridge CROSS THE OREGON COAST RANGE ON TWO WHEELS The 60-mile (97-kilometer) Corvallis-to-the-Sea Trail links downtown Corvallis to the Oregon Coast, giving cyclists a way to explore the forested Oregon Coast Range. The path begins where the Marys and Willamette rivers come together near downtown Corvallis before ascending into the mountains via paved backcountry paths, gravel routes and dirt forest roads. Sights along the way include iconic Marys Peak, rolling hillsides, lush forests and resident wildlife—including deer, Roosevelt elk and the occasional black bear. Bikepackers can break up the trip with an overnight stay at the remote Big Elk Campground. Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway Black Rock Mountain Bike Area
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