Sherar's Falls Scenic Bikeway |
|
Route Overview
The Best of Oregon Riding
Traverse the strikingly scenic high desert canyon of north central Oregon on this 33-mile loop en route to the Bikeway’s namesake, Sherar's Falls, on the Deschutes River.
The below links provide detailed cues to ride the route in a clockwise direction.
See "Trip Planning Resources" in the Route Details below for cues to ride the route in a counter-clockwise direction.
Route Details
Oregon Scenic Bikeways
Oregon Scenic Bikeways are a superb collection of cycling routes that inspire people to experience Oregon's natural beauty and cultural heritage by bicycle, and that offer economic and social benefits to the state's communities and residents. The program is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Trip Planning Resources
Downloadable map and cue sheet for the Sherar's Falls Scenic Bikeway.
GPS files and route profile for cyclists riding the route in a clockwise direction.
GPS files and route profile for cyclists riding the route in a counter-clockwise direction.
Visit Travel Oregon for videos and photos, guide and shuttle companies, cycling events, attractions, lodging, Bike Friendly business locations, and more.
Information about road conditions from Oregon Department of Transportation's TripCheck. Additionally, current information on the condition of local roads can be obtained from the Wasco Public Works Department (503-588-5036).
Route Description
Sherar’s Falls Scenic Bikeway traverses the strikingly scenic high desert canyon of north central Oregon, known as the River Canyon Country. This 33-mile loop winds along the Deschutes River en route to the Bikeway’s namesake, Sherar's Falls, where Native Americans fish for salmon, as they have for thousands of years: from wooden scaffolds using traditional dipnets and setnets. Riders will follow a section of the White River and pass White River Falls State Park, one of Oregon's secret hideaways, where a short walk leads to views of the river’s 90-foot plunge over a basalt shelf.
The small, vibrant town of Maupin, with a walkable downtown, friendly locals, restaurants, lodging and camping serves as the Bikeway’s start and finish.
This ride is best enjoyed in spring and fall, and even on some winter days. In springtime, wildflowers dot the hillsides, including lupine’s purple sprays and arrowleaf balsamroot’s pops of yellow. Come winter, central Oregon can be a dry, temperate reprieve while the rest of the state shelters from rain and snow. Tucked in the protective rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, the region boasts 300 days of sunshine and less than six inches of rain per year.
Important Reminders
Scenic Bikeway routes often include roads with car and truck traffic. Although the Bikeways are routed on low-traffic and low-speed roads whenever possible, most are designated for cyclists who are comfortable riding in some amount of traffic.
Other routes by Oregon Scenic Bikeways
