Your Guide to Biking in Sunriver, Oregon
No tour of the best biking in Central Oregon is complete without a stop in Sunriver, Oregon. A city named after the abundance of sunshine and water, Sunriver is a nationally-renowned destination for outdoor adventure. The town is nestled right where the Deschutes National Forest meets the base of the Cascade Mountains, just a few miles south of beautifully stark high desert landscapes. From mountain biking trails near volcanic monuments to paved paths meandering near the river, Sunriver is perfect to explore from the seat of a bike.
Top Sunriver Bike Paths
When we say Sunriver was made for biking, we’re not kidding. Road cyclists and bikers looking for a smooth ride will want to check out the Sunriver Bike Path. This is a 15-mile, fully-paved path made for biking. The path takes several different routes that sprawl out across the entire community, connecting to retail and entertainment districts, like The Village at Sunriver, as well as residential areas and Sunriver Resort, which offers world-class golfing, dining, spa amenities and close to 40 miles of paved biking trails on resort property. Other than simply offering transportation to and from many areas of Sunriver, the trail offers family-friendly adventure under the shade of tall pines. To the north, the trail connects with the Sun-Lava Trail, which explores the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. To the west, the trail follows a stretch of the Deschutes River for a peaceful ride.
The Best Mountain Bike Trails around Sunriver
Central Oregon is known for its mountain biking trails, and Sunriver is surrounded by them. The longest option, Deschutes River Trail is an easy-moderate 11-mile-path that follows the Deschutes River going north, near Bend. It takes riders past deep pools, cascading waterfalls and a rock shelter used by hunters who lived in the area more than 6,000 years ago. A shorter option on the other side of the Deschutes, the Roundabout Trail is a 3.3-mile loop with a rocky section best suited for experienced riders. This is one of the newer trails in Sunriver, and connects to the Elko Point Trail (0.5 miles), which gives you a view of the Deschutes River. Riders can also connect with Afternoon Delight, which takes you to Tyler’s Traverse and Catch & Release for more cycling adventure. Lastly, consider the Swan Song Trail. A very short and easy 2-mile gravel path with views of the Sunriver Marina and the Deschutes River; perfect for families with younger or inexperienced riders. This trail can be accessed from the Benson Day Use Area in the south, and connects with the larger Roundabout Trail to the north.
Sunriver Bike Rentals and Shops
If you don’t own a bike or just didn’t bring one along for the trip, don’t worry. There are plenty of rental options in Sunriver that have you covered. Sunriver Resort offers rentals through The Bike Barn, which offers over 300 different styles and sizes to choose from, as well as other equipment like helmets and shoes. Sunriver Sports is another great option, offering everything from tandem bikes and kid’s bike-strollers to ebikes and full suspension mountain bikes.
Don’t be surprised when you return from your adventures hungry for a good meal; the trails build up an appetite! Be sure to check out some of the best dining Sunriver has to offer, featuring innovative dishes made from local ingredients by talented chefs.