Portland, Oregon, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and active living, offers some of the best biking experiences in the United States. With its extensive network of bike paths, lanes, and trails, the city is a haven for cyclists. Although the local authorities in Portland have been under fire for their policies in general, when it comes to cycling – they’ve certainly got it right.

When it comes to cycling in Portland, there is something for everyone. If you want a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes or an adrenaline-fueled mountain biking adventure, both are readily available and easy to access.

Portland’s Premier Bike Paths and Routes

Urban Bike Lanes and Paths

• Springwater Corridor: A favorite among locals, this 21-mile-long paved trail offers a scenic route from the heart of downtown Portland to Boring, Oregon. It’s perfect for a casual ride with stunning views of the Willamette River and surrounding greenery. It’s easy to hop on and off the Springwater Corridor, so it is suitable for all levels and abilities.
• Eastbank Esplanade: This urban route provides a unique cycling experience along the Willamette River, featuring floating walkways and connections to several city bridges for a loop around the river.

Scenic and Recreational Routes

• Willamette Greenway Trail: This trail offers a peaceful ride along the river, passing through parks and natural areas, perfect for enjoying Portland’s natural beauty.
• Banks-Vernonia State Trail: A little north of Portland, this 21-mile trail takes you through a lush, wooded corridor, offering a blend of nature and history.

Mountain Biking Trails

• Forest Park: With over 5,200 acres of woodland, Forest Park has numerous trails suitable for mountain biking, offering a quick escape into nature right from the city.
• Powell Butte Nature Park: This park features several miles of mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels, surrounded by meadows and forests.

Cycling Laws in Portland

Portland’s cycling laws are designed to ensure the safety of both cyclists and other road users. If you happen to find yourself riding on roads, some key laws include:

• Helmet Laws: Helmets are required for cyclists under 16 years old. While not mandatory for adults, wearing a helmet is highly recommended.
• Riding on the Right: Cyclists must ride on the right side of the road or in bike lanes where provided.
• Signaling: Like motorists, cyclists must use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
• Bike Lights: Bicycles must be equipped with a front light and a rear reflector when riding at night.

Bike Rentals for Tourists

For tourists looking to explore Portland on two wheels, there are several bike rental options:

• Kerr Bikes: Located on the waterfront, Kerr Bikes offers a range of bicycles for rent, including tandem bikes and surreys.
• Cycle Portland Bike Tours & Rentals: Situated in downtown Portland, they offer bike rentals along with guided bike tours of the city.
• Pedal Bike Tours: This was another great option for renting bikes, Pedal Bike Tours provided guided tours that explored different aspects of Portland. However, it has been closed since early 2023, and although the website is still active, tours are now unavailable to book.

Summary Of Biking In Portland

Biking in Portland is pretty much the best you will find in the entirety of America. The city has been built in a way to let locals and tourists get around easily on bikes with no worries of being disrupted. Furthermore, it is an experience that allows you to connect with the city in a unique and intimate way.

There are many different routes to choose from such as cruising along a serene river trail or navigating the bustling city streets. As previously mentioned – Portland’s bike paths cater to every kind of cyclist. With the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure, commitment to safety, and ample bike rental options, exploring Portland on a bike is a must-do for both locals and tourists.