As a biking expert, I am often asked about the top places to ride in Washington County, Oregon. This county is a cyclist's paradise, with its stunning landscapes and mild climate. Whether you are a beginner seeking a leisurely ride or an experienced rider looking for a challenge, there are numerous bike-friendly parks and recreational areas to explore.
The Growing Popularity of Biking in Washington County
Biking has become increasingly popular in Washington County over the years. The county has made a commitment to sustainability and promoting alternative modes of transportation, resulting in the development of a network of bike-friendly roads and trails.This not only makes it easier for residents to commute by bike but also attracts tourists looking for an active and eco-friendly vacation. According to the Washington County Bicycle Transportation Plan, there are over 300 miles of bikeways in the county, including bike lanes, shared-use paths, and neighborhood greenways. This extensive network allows cyclists to travel safely and conveniently throughout the county.
The Best Bike-Friendly Parks in Washington County
One of the most popular parks for biking in Washington County is the Tualatin Hills Nature Park. This 222-acre park offers over five miles of paved and unpaved trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and meadows. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a scenic and peaceful place to ride. Another must-visit park for cyclists is the Banks-Vernonia State Trail.This 21-mile paved trail follows an old railroad bed and takes riders through lush forests, over bridges, and past scenic views. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for riders of all levels, and there are several access points along the way. For those seeking a more challenging ride, the Stub Stewart State Park is an excellent option. This park offers over 25 miles of mountain biking trails that range from easy to difficult. The trails take riders through forests and meadows, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The park also has a bike skills area for those looking to improve their technique.
Recreational Areas for Bikers
In addition to parks, there are also several recreational areas in Washington County that cater to bikers. One of the most popular is the Hagg Lake Recreation Area. This 1,200-acre park offers a 13-mile paved trail that circles the lake, as well as several unpaved trails for mountain biking. The park also has picnic areas, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities, making it a great spot for a day of outdoor fun. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is another recreational area that is popular among cyclists.This 1,856-acre refuge has over four miles of paved trails that take riders through wetlands and forests, with opportunities to spot a variety of birds and other wildlife. The refuge also offers guided bike tours on select days throughout the year.
Bike-Friendly Events in Washington County
Washington County is also home to several bike-friendly events that attract cyclists from all over the state. One of the most well-known is the annual Bridge Pedal event, which takes riders on a tour of Portland's bridges and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Another popular event is the Oregon Gran Fondo, which offers challenging routes through the scenic countryside of Washington County. The county also hosts regular bike rides and events throughout the year, such as the Sunday Parkways, where streets are closed to cars and open to cyclists and pedestrians.These events not only promote biking as a fun and healthy activity but also showcase the county's commitment to creating a bike-friendly community.
