Lesser-Known Bike Adventure Trails Within 30 Minutes of Portland - Featuring Secret Viewpoints and Local Favorites
Fellow Portland cyclists! While the iconic waterfront loop certainly has its charm, we're excited to share some seriously great trails that remain delightfully under the radar. These hidden gems offer everything from moody forest rides to unexpected inner-city adventures, plus we made sure they're all within a 30-minute ride from the center of the town. Whether you're looking to expand your riding repertoire or just seeking to escape the usual cycling crowds, we've curated a collection of trails that we believe represent some of Portland's best-kept cycling secrets.
Powell Butte's Secret Single Track
Just a quick 20-minute ride from downtown, Powell Butte hides some of the sweetest single track you've probably never heard of. The best part? While the crowds flock to the main summit trail, we'll send you to our favorite lesser-known excursion.
The Local's Route
Park at the Cedar Grove entrance, more information on this trail here.
Look for the "Pioneer View" - it's not on most maps, but it's where you'll catch the best sunrise views of Mt. Hood
The Picturesque Forested Saltzman and St Johns.
The West Hills loop offers a unique Forest Park experience, featuring steady climbs and thrilling descents—without the car-heavy roads and weekend warrior crowds. Find more details on how to get to this special trail here.
What Makes It Special
A serene climb up Saltzman Road with a manageable 4% grade
The exciting Newberry Road descent - take it slow on the steep, winding turns
Perfect for intermediate riders who enjoy a mix of climbing and technical descending
The Southeast Sunday Special
We've stitched together a perfect urban adventure that connects three hidden green spaces in Southeast. It's the kind of route that makes you feel like you've escaped the city without actually leaving it. Pro tip: Hit this route early on Sunday mornings. You'll have most of the trail to yourself, and you can wrap up just in time for brunch at a local favorite spot.
Route Navigation
This 12-mile loop connects three hidden gems: Kenilworth Park, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, and the lesser-known Eastmoreland Garden trails.
Start at SE 34th and Holgate
Head east on the neighborhood greenway until you reach Kenilworth Park
Take the hidden path behind the community garden
Follow Reed College Place to Crystal Springs
Connect to Eastmoreland's secret garden paths via the unmarked trail near hole 4 of the golf course
What to Expect
Mostly flat terrain with a few gentle hills
Mix of paved paths and packed gravel
Abundant shade and wildlife viewing opportunities
Several water fountains and rest stops along the way
Total riding time: About 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace, perfect for a Sunday morning adventure.
The North Portland River Loop
For those seeking a unique urban-to-nature experience, this hidden gem offers an incredible 80% car-free journey connecting inner Portland to both the Willamette and Columbia rivers.
What Makes It Special
Follows Portland's extensive neighborhood greenway network
Perfect blend of quiet residential roads, sidewalks, and dedicated paths
Access to two different river beaches
Ideal for riders of all ages and abilities
Route Details
You can find the complete route details and download the GPS track at RideWithGPS.com. The route utilizes Portland's extensive neighborhood greenway network, proving that these quiet streets aren't just for commuting - they're our vital gateways throughout the city.
Get Out and Explore!
There's so many benefits to discovering the hidden corners of our city by exploring these trails. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the natural beauty that makes our region so special year-round. Whether you're seeking solitude, challenging yourself, or enjoying a leisurely ride, these lesser-known trails offer something for every type of cyclist. The best adventures often start where the crowds thin out and the unexplored paths begin.