Newberry Crater loop

Deschutes County, OR, US

Route Overview

22 mi.
2,920 ft.

You can’t visit Oregon and not ride in a volcano! 20 minutes south of Bend is Newberry Crater, a volcanic caldera ringed by a challenging trail. With views of the twin lakes inside the caldera, this ride is a stunning end to your visit.

Route Details

This rides comes with an in-your-face geology lesson. Newberry Crater was formed when the volcano’s summit collapsed, shaving 500-1,000 feet from its height. As is the wont of volcanoes, the caldera reformed several times throughout the volcano's history, eventually resulting in two distinct waterbodies, Paulina Lake and East Lake, both above 6,000’. The best part is you get to view all of this from the saddle of your bike, circumnavigating the rim of the crater primarily on singletrack.

The first bit is a paved road climb, which, given the physical difficulty of this ride, is a good thing. Forest Road FS-500 is about four miles long and gains 1,500’, taking you on a scenic detour to the top of Paulina Peak at just under 8,000’. It may seem like an unwise use of precious leg muscles but the views are stunning and well worth it.

After filling your social media feed with photos from the top of Paulina Peak, you’ll commence in earnest with the singletrack, heading counterclockwise around the caldera, the crystal blue waters always on your left. With expansive portions of the state laid out in every direction you’ll be tempted to stop frequently for photos. Keep an eye on your food and water, though as the trail climbs and descends relentlessly, sapping your resources. The variable tread surfaces also take a toll on your form, with the sections of pumice and lava demanding your attention. After a particularly tough grunt that crests around Mile 18 you begin a long, glorious descent back to the trailhead. As a popular destination for hikers and bikers alike, please remember to be courteous when encountering others.

You may be exhausted, hungry, and thirsty but you’re in luck, as the Paulina Lake Lodge Restaurant and Bar is minutes from the trailhead, right on the lake that you’ve just spent the last several hours circling. While the water looked beautiful when holding a handlebar it is even more scenic when holding a cold beverage after an amazing epic ride.

Riding Season

As most of this ride is above 7,000’ the route is typically open summer through early fall.

Other routes by Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours and Shuttles