Vista Ridge Loop

I just rode this route for the first time, and it immediately became one of my top 10 rides in Oregon. (OK, there may actually be 25 rides in my top 10… but this is definitely one of them.)

My friend found this route in a book called Road Riding in the Columbia River Gorge (www.gorgecycling.com), which bills it as the steepest ride in the Gorge, and one of the most scenic. Hard to argue either point. The ride as we did it, starting from Tucker Park, goes 48 miles, with over 4,000 feet of climbing, including a couple pitches with gradients well into the teens. But the roads and the views…

As you ride up, each road gets less travelled, until Vista Ridge and Red Hill, which have no traffic. The roads get narrower, and as you climb you’re hearing streams and wind and your own gasping, and nothing else. It’s really hard climbing, but the rewards are worth it. When you reach the top you skirt a ridge with expansive views thousands of feet down over forest, and you get a 6.5-mile downhill, including views of the Hood River Valley, that will put a grin on your face. This route makes you glad you get to ride in Oregon.

A couple notes: First, and most important: the road is washed out near the bottom of the the downhill, and I mean really washed out – you have to cross a small river. But we found someone had put down planks to walk across; it’s not particularly harrowing, but it adds a little spice to the ride. Very good chance you’ll get a little wet. They’re building a bridge, but as of August ’10 it’s not near to completion. Second, you can ride this from Hood River to make it about 56 miles, or start at the turnoff from Dee Highway at Dee Mills and it’s 36.

Directions: From Tucker Road (Tucker County Park), follow Dee Highway (281) until a turnoff for Lost Lake, at the site of a large old mill operation. Start climbing Lost Lake Road, then take a left onto Lolo Pass Road and climb. About 2 miles later, take the left onto Vista Ridge Trail (Road 16). Climb more. At the top bear left (it’s pretty obvious) onto Red Hill Road (not marked). Follow it along the ridge and all the way down to the washout. After crossing turn left on Old Parkdale Road, merge into Dee Highway and loop back to the start.

Motorized Vehicle Traffic: Light to nonexistent

Seasons: Spring to fall