(Photo © J. Maus)
Forest Park, Portland’s 5,000 acre urban park and wooden wonderland, might not offer the type of trail access many off-road advocates would prefer; but it’s still a great place to ride a bike.
Now, Portland-based Pedal Bike Tours is taking advantage of the park’s many miles of gravel and dirts roads by offering twice-daily guided tours.
Calling it the “ultimate Oregon combination of primeval forest and vibrant city,” Pedal Bike Tours owner Todd Roll says, “This ride appeals to both casual riders who want to enjoy the greenery and solitude of the park without a long drive to the mountains, as well as more aggressive riders looking to get a good workout on the gravel and dirt road.”
For $49 you’ll get a bike (if you need one), a lift up to Leif Erikson Road (ride starts at 600 feet) and then be led 11 miles through thick forests and ferns. The tour heads south into Portland and after rolling on dirt and gravel roads, you’ll end up just above NW 23rd Street and then wind through the Pearl District back to Pedal Bike Tours’ shop in Old Town.
Stay tuned for more news about bike access in Forest Park.