Shellburg Creek Trails – Loop

Trailhead: From Salem, head east on Hwy. 22 for 21.4 miles to Fern Ridge Road on the left in Mehama (just across from the Gingerbread House). Go up Fern Ridge Road for 1.2 miles to a gravel road that junctions sharply on the right. Park in the limited space available without blocking the gate and proceed up the gravel road without venturing off it onto private property. You can also access this area from the Shellburg Freeride Area between May 20 and Nov. 1.

Highlights: Fun trails through a mature forest with multiple small creek crossings, twisty single-track, some steep climbing/descending and an optional hike up to Shellburg Falls.

The ride in from the gate makes a great warm-up.  If you look closely you may see remnants of old single-track, which was decommissioned in exchange for better-built trails.  It is possible to link up with the Silver Falls Trails via the top of the Lost Creek Trail.  The freeride area makes a nice addition to this ride if you like ramps and jumps.

Seasons: Late spring, summer and early fall.

A detailed map of this trail and others nearby is available through Adventure Maps, an Oregon company, at local bike shops and outdoor retailers, as well as online at www.adventuremaps.net.