Best Motorcycle Rides Near Portland

Explore the Willamette Valley and surrounding mountains of the Pacific Northwest on the best motorcycle rides near Portland from REVER. Situated on the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Portland is a unique city with a vibe all its own. The city's roads wind through forested hills down to scenic river fronts in an iconic urban area unlike anywhere else. REVER has selected our favorite motorcycle rides in Portland Oregon and the surrounding area so you'll discover the best the region has to offer. Select a route below to start touring the City of Roses.

Tips For The Best Motorcycle Rides In Portland Oregon

Portland is surrounded by deep forests, towering volcanic mountains and a rugged coast. To see it all, you'll want to pair your Pacific Northwest adventures with a reliable motorcycle navigation app you can trust. REVER was created by riders for riders, and you should never set out on a ride without it. Get started right now by downloading the app for free. You can open legendary routes all over the world and start tracking your own routes and sharing them with others. But if you really want to crush motorcycle routes near Portland OR, make the upgrade to REVER Pro. You'll gain access to a full compliment of tools and features like weather radar and alerts, turn by turn and voice navigation, mobile route planning and Butler Maps road recommendations. You don't even have to worry about getting lost with the LiveRIDE feature that sends SMS alerts to friends and family as you make your way along the route.

The Pacific Northwest is famous for its rainy climate, but did you know that the Portland area experiences warm, dry summers? This makes the summer season the perfect time to plan motorcycle rides near Portland. Outside of the dry summer season, you'll want to pack reliable rain gear to combat the rainy climate. While the stereotype of cloudy, rainy days on the Oregon coast is largely true, you'll rarely if ever have to contend with severe weather in this region. The winters are cool and sometimes temperatures dip below freezing, but snow is rare. As long as you're prepared to deal with the rain, you can set out on motorcycle rides near Portland almost all year long. Just make sure you wear base layers so you can adjust your riding gear to the changing temperatures. Finally, don't forget the motorcycle camping gear if you want to stay the night in Oregon's gorgeous wilderness.

Portland Attractions

Portland provides the perfect combination of natural beauty and engaging city sights. Start your visit with a ride up to Washington Park to see unique landscapes of the city. The park is host to a large rose test garden where more than 8,000 roses in many different varieties are grown. But the real highlight of the park is the Japanese Garden where you can see the deep green vegetation of Portland alongside waterfalls and ponds in a traditional Japanese garden setting. Forest Park just to the north of Washington Park offers more winding forest trails to explore as well. Outside of the city, there are unforgettable vistas you won't want to miss. To the east, the Columbia River Gorge (https://www.fs.usda.gov/crgnsa) is the largest National Scenic Area in America, and it's packed with high cliffs and cascading waterfalls along the Columbia River. While there, check out iconic waterfalls like Multnomah and Latourell. Or ride southeast from the city to see Mt. Hood, Oregon's tallest mountain is still an active volcano, and the views are incredible. There are numerous recreation activities to explore around the mountain in Mt. Hood National Forest as well.

Columbia River Loop

Tour the Columbia River just east of Portland on this quick hour long ride up to Bridal Veil Falls and back. The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, and it has long been the key waterway for the city of Portland. The Columbia also marks much of the border between Washington and Oregon. We'll begin this route in Northeast Portland, an area well-known for its history as a manufacturing hub. Take the Historic Columbia River Highway exit south off Interstate 84 to get started. You'll trace the Sandy River down to Springdale, OR. Just after the exit, the Sugarpine Drive-In offers tasty roadside eats and ice cream along the river. Follow the bend in the river as it turns east into Dabney State Recreation Area. From there, ride through Corbett and get ready for some serious twists and turns as well as some amazing views ahead. Follow the Columbia River Highway as it climbs up to the Vista House historic overlook. This stone building sits atop one of the best scenic overlooks of the Columbia known as Crown Point. It was constructed in 1918 and features classic Art Nouveau architecture.

When you're finished taking in the views at Vista House, continue down a series of switchbacks into the small community of Latourell. This town is the site of Latourell Falls, one of the best waterfalls along the Columbia Gorge. The short hike up to the lower falls is well worth taking, but the trail to the upper falls is a longer affair. More scenic waterfalls lie ahead along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Pass through Shepperds Dell, and look for the Bridal Veil Falls parking off to your left. If you decide to see the falls, set off on another short hike to get to the base of the falls, but once again, it is well worth the effort. Ride the historic highway back down to the river, and take the hard left onto East Bridal Veil Road and back onto Interstate 84. As you cruise back towards Portland, take in the close up views of the Columbia. Along the way, Rooster Rock State Park offers a chance to walk along the river or gaze up at the Vista House above. Complete the route by heading west back into the Portland city limits.

The Columbia River is an easy escape east of Portland.

The view from the Vista House is not to be missed.

Latourell Falls is one of many waterfalls that cascade into the Columbia River.

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Carlton To Beaver Loop

Explore the Nestucca River Valley on its journey to the Pacific Ocean in this three hour loop from Carlton to Beaver, OR and back. The Nestucca River cuts through the Coastal Range of Oregon, and this area is prime logging territory, so watch out for slow moving logging trucks. The good news for riders is this route traverses deep forests along the Nestucca River National Back Country Byway. There are four BLM campgrounds along the river, so don't forget your camping loadout. We begin in Carlton, OR known for its nearby vineyards. There are almost two dozen tasting rooms in Carlton, which is something to keep in mind for wine enthusiasts. Take Main Street / Meadowlake Road east out of town as you leave the farmland behind and head into the Coastal Range. When you reach McGuire Reservoir, you'll meet up with the Nestucca River, and the back country byway begins. Gear up for mile after mile of twisting turns along the river ahead.

You'll encounter several BLM campgrounds along the road, and consider a stop at the Elk Bend Recreation Site to stretch your legs along the river. Stay right at the fork with Bible Creek Road, and look for Nenamusa Falls as you cross over the river here. Pass through the small community of Blaine, OR, and then soon you'll arrive in Beaver, OR to finish the first leg of this ride. Fuel up in Beaver, and if you're hungry, there is a little joint called Bear Creek Artichokes just north of Beaver on Highway 101 in Hemlock, OR. Otherwise head back east on Blaine Road / Nestucca Road the way you came, but this time take the right onto Bible Creek Road just after Rocky Bend Campground. You'll ride south along the creek, and there is more adventure hiding in a detour just off the road here. Look for a left onto Bald Mountain Road and then a right onto Bell Mountain Road to enter the Whipup Flat OHV Staging Area. This off-road features trails for every skill level if you want to get off the beaten path for a while. Otherwise continue south on Bible Creek Road as it becomes Gilbert Creek Road.

Eventually you'll arrive in Willamina, OR, and there are a couple of restaurants here to check out before you begin the last leg of the ride. Grab a slice at Odd Fellows Pizza or hit Coyote Joe's for some diner food. Then ride south out of town, and jump on Highway 18 headed northeast. This last stretch takes you through farmland and more vineyards just outside the Coastal Range. When you reach McMinnville, OR, stay left on the highway to get onto 99W. Or if you're up for another detour, McMinnville is home to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. The highlight of the museum is the Hughes Flying Boat named the Spruce Goose. This plane designed in WWII by Howard Hughes is the largest airplane in the world made entirely out of wood. Back on 99W, ride through McMinnville, and look for the left onto North Baker Street heading north. This will take you through more wine country until you meet back up with Meadowlake Road just outside of Carlton.

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The Nestucca River is the setting for much of this ride. (source)

Crystal clear waters flow along the Nestucca Backcountry Byway. (source)

Several small waterfalls flow into the Nestucca along the Wild and Scenic River Area. (source)

The Nestucca area is teaming with OHV trails. (source)

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Mt. St. Helens Loop From Vancouver Side

Ride across the Washington border to one of the most iconic mountains in America, Mt. St. Helens, on this two and half hour loop. (Note: a portion of this route may be impacted by seasonal closures, so check before you go.) You'll begin north of Vancouver, WA in Lewisville on Highway 503. Ride past Lewisville Regional Park, and head north to Fargher Lake, WA. Stay right on 503 as you pass through Fargher Lake, and then loop back up north to Amboy, WA. At Chelatchie, WA, Highway 503 turns north again, and you'll ride by the Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Headquarters. Stop for visitor information and especially to check for potential closures. Out of Chelatchie, ride north to Lake Merwin, and cross over on the Yale Bridge. Take in the clear waters of the lake from Cresap Bay Recreation Area nearby, or set off on a short detour east on Frasier Road to see the Yale Dam and Saddle Dam Park on Yale Lake. Keep riding north on 503 through a short rugged section and one switchback. Then at the junction, take a right to continue on Highway 503.

As Mt. St. Helens draws closer, you'll ride along the blue shores of Yale Lake. Up next, look for a left onto Forest Road 81 to begin the Mt. St. Helens loop. If you need food or fuel, consider a stop in the small community of Cougar situated along the lake. The loop around the mountain is remote and offers no services. The Cougar Bar & Grill is a fun little lakeside dive to hit for a bite to eat, or the Lone Fir Cafe offers solid fare next to a resort hotel. We'll pass back through Cougar at the end of the loop, so if you're good on gas and want to hold out on food, you can push off the stop until later. Back on Forest Road 81, things get really exciting as you climb into the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. After the first little climb up the side of a mountain, you'll ride along the forested shore of Merrill Lake. There is camping available right next to the lake here. Keep heading north into a small valley as you ride along the Kalama River. Goat Mountain looms large ahead at 4,965 ft. In the shadow of the mountain, Forest Road 81 turns east just before Goat Mountain. Now it's time to experience the majesty of Mt. St. Helens ahead.

Mt. St. Helens is nowhere near the highest peak in the Cascade Range or in Washington State, but this doesn't detract from its fame at all. This active stratovolcano towers over the region at 8,363 ft., and it is part of the infamous Pacific Ring of Fire. Mt. St. Helens became a household name in 1980 when it erupted to create the most destructive volcanic event in US history. The eruption was so violent that much of the mountain's northern summit was blown apart creating a horseshoe crater. Scientists haven't measured any volcanic activity in the area since 2008, but they warn it is only a matter of time before another significant eruption occurs. Don't let this warning deter you from exploring the area! The typical eruption cycle is 100-300 years. The mountain itself is a popular climbing destination, and you can reach the summit at any time of year.

As you ride in the shadow of Mt. St. Helens, stay right at the fork in the road to follow Forest Road 81. Take in as much of the stunning view as you need, and then continue on the road south until it combines with Forest Road 83 at the west fork of Swift Creek. Cruise south for a short stretch, and keep an eye out for a right on Forest Road 8303 for a unique detour opportunity. Ape Cave is the third longest lava tube in North America, and you can hike deep into the lava tube to explore this dark environment. Speaking of, the Forest Service recommends you bring two sources of light per person, and no, your cellphone light isn't bright enough. You'll also want to pack in water. If you're visiting in summer, make sure to purchase tickets well in advance. Back on Forest Road 83, keep riding south, and take the right turn on Forest Road 90 to explore the shores of one more lake, Swift Reservoir. The road bends back west into Cougar, WA. Make a stop for food or trace the route back to Lewisville towards Portland to complete the route.

Mt. St. Helens is famous for its 1980 eruption, but its an excellent place to ride as well.

A good portion of the summit was blown apart during the 1980 eruption.

The Gifford Pinchot National Forest surrounding Mt. St. Helens offers much to explore as well.

A short detour to Ape Caves presents a chance to explore an empty lava tube.

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Three Lynx Loop Out Of Estacada

Embark on an epic loop south of Portland on this four and a half hour ride along two wild and scenic rivers. This area is loaded with quality camping, so consider bringing your gear if you want to sleep out under the stars. We'll start in Estacada, WA south of Portland on Highway 224. Ride southeast on 224, and consider an early stop at the North Fork Reservoir to see the Floating Catwalks in the lake. As you pass the reservoir, you'll enter Mt. Hood National Forest. An exciting stretch of highway lies ahead, so gear up for some fun along the Clackamas River. There are plenty of waterfalls to explore along this route as well, starting with Clackamas Falls off Forest Road 45 in Memaloose, OR. Once you pass Fish Creek Campground, look for Pup Creek Waterfall a couple miles ahead off to your right. Soon you'll come to to the small town of Three Lynx established mainly for the hydroelectric facility here. Cross over the Clackamas, and keep cruising south into Ripplebrook, OR. The main attraction here is a large campground, but plenty more sights await farther along the 224.

Once you pass the Riverford Campground, the river road winds to the east and then back south. Enjoy mile after mile of remote river canyon until you hit a tight hairpin turn to head west towards Detroit, OR. Along the way, there are hot springs to soak in at Breitenbush. Once you arrive in Detroit, stop for fuel and hit the unique Conner's BBQ beside the lake. Then take Highway 22 north out of town to trace the northern side of Detroit Lake. You can stop and stretch your legs at the Detroit Lake State Recreation Area along the way, and there is a stunning viewpoint of Mount Jefferson just south of the park. Wind down around the lake past more beaches at Mongold Day Use Area, and then head back northwest on Highway 22. You'll pass the Detroit Dam and ride up into another stunning canyon along the Santiam River. Take in views of the river rapids and old water wheel at Niagara Park along the highway. When you hit the town of Mill City along the river, consider a stop at Poppa Al's for some roadside burgers. From here, Highway 22 traces more of the Santiam River to Stayton, OR. Just before you arrive in town, look for the right on Boedigheimer Road to continue north on the route.

Follow Boedigheimer Road as it zig zags up north to Highway 214. Then take a right to ride another scenic section towards Silver Falls State Park. Silver Falls has an astounding 10 waterfalls to explore, so make sure you see at least one of the waterfalls like South Falls or North Falls. North of the state park, keep riding on 214 up to Silverton, OR. There are several restaurant options downtown along the Cascade Highway if you're hungry. Look for the right onto Oak Street / Highway 213 to take the last leg of the loop. Once you get to Molalla, OR, hang a right onto Highway 211 to ride back into Estacada. You'll absolutely want to finish the ride at the Old Mill in Estacada. This biker friendly joint features large portions and a western roadhouse vibe you won't want to miss.

The route begins along the Clackamas River.

The Clackamas Highway hugs the bends of the river making for an exciting ride.

Detroit, OR is nestled in the hills next to Detroit Lake. (source)

Silver Falls State Park features 10 dramatic waterfalls within the park. (source)

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Scholls To Henry Hagg Lake

Head on a quick ride west of Portland to Henry Hagg Lake on this two hour loop through wine country. Start on Highway 219 / Hillsboro Highway in Scholls, OR, and cruise southwest out of town to begin the loop. Explore the local wine country on a winding road through the hills until you get to Newberg, OR. Once in town, look for the right onto Highway 240 / Yamhill-Newberg Highway heading west. More wineries and farms dot the hills as you ride into Yamhill, OR. Take the right onto Highway 47 north up to Gaston and Patton, OR. Your next turn will be a left onto Scoggins Valley Road. Ride into the little valley along Scoggins Creek towards the rolling hills of Henry Hagg Lake. You'll stay on Scoggins Valley Road to start the short loop around the lake. There are ample opportunities to stretch your legs and check out the lake at areas like Eagle Point, Sain Creek and Elks Recreation Areas. Stay on Scoggins Valley Road as it becomes West Shore Drive on the other side of the lake. Once you meet back up with Scoggins Valley Road, take it back the way you came, but we'll mix up the way home by hanging a left onto Old Highway 47.

Ride north for a short jaunt on Old Highway 47, but before it meets up with the new highway, hang a right onto Spring Hill Road. Enjoy the scenic cruise through more vineyards than you can count. Spring Hill Road becomes North Valley Road along the way. Before you get back to Highway 240, look for the left to stay onto North Valley Road heading east. This scenic route will take you back to Highway 219 / Hillsboro Highway. Finally, hang a left on 219 to trace the route back up to Scholls and complete the loop.

This ride east of Portland takes you through rolling hills covered with wineries and farmland. (source)

Take Highway 240 into Yamhill on the way to Henry Hagg Lake. (source)

Henry Hagg Lake is surrounded by forested hills. (source)

There are over 50 wineries in the Scholls / Yamhill area. (source)

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Mt. Hood Loop

Circle Mt. Hood in this breathtaking three hour mixed-surface ADV loop east of Portland. To get to the start of the route, take Highway 26 out of Portland until you get Zigzag, OR. The Barlow Trail Roadhouse is located in an old cabin built in 1926, and it makes an ideal stop before or after you ride the loop. Jump on Forest Road 18 / Lolo Pass Road headed north to begin the loop. You'll follow the Sandy River that flows down from Mt. Hood through a wide valley. Eventually Lolo Pass Road will depart from the Sandy River and climb into higher terrain. Up next, you'll pass by the popular climbing spot known as French's Dome. Once you cross the Lolo Pass Trailhead, gear up for a climb through several snaking roads in the shadow of Mt. Hood. Eventually Lolo Pass Road will bear back north along McGee Creek. Continue on Lolo Pass almost out of National Forest land, but hang a right onto Forest Road 16 for another exciting switchback section up to higher elevation. Once you arrive on top of Blue Ridge, make sure you gaze back west for amazing views of Mt. Hood.

Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon and the only place in the US where ski lifts run all year round. Like other peaks in the Cascade Range, it is a stratovolcano that is considered “potentially active," although the eruption chances are listed between 3-7% for the next 30 years. Stay on Forest Road 16 as you ride closer to the mountain, and then take the road back north along Tony Creek. You'll descend down a few gradual switchbacks as the forest road becomes Red Hill Drive. As you tour this section, notice the large section of ancient lava flow next to the Parkdale Valley. Ride into Parkdale, OR along Baseline Drive, and hit Apple Valley BBQ if you're hungry. Then continue on Baseline Road as it winds south and links up with Mt. Hood Highway / 35. Another amazing section awaits as you climb out of the valley to the east side of Mt. Hood along the Hood River.

Along the highway, there is a short riverside trail at Tamanawas Falls that leads to a 110 ft. waterfall cascading down a sheer lava cliff. You'll pass by several snow park play areas and Nordic trails utilized in the winter. Eventually the highway winds back west towards the ski areas and the final section of the loop. At the base of Mt. Hood Meadows ski area, there is a short trail for Sahalie Falls that is easy to tackle. Up next, you'll cross over several creeks and the scenic White River that flows down south into the beautiful White River Wilderness. For an interesting part of American history, pull off the highway at Barlow Pass to see the grave of an unnamed pioneer woman who was laid to rest here after braving the Oregon Trail.

The true highlight of the ride still lies ahead just before you get to Government Camp, OR. Take the right onto the Timberline Highway for a short but steep climb up to the Mt. Hood View Point. Nothing beats the view from this area, which is nearly 2,000 ft. higher than Government Camp. Right next to the scenic overlook is another must-see attraction in the Timberline Lodge. This ski lodge was built in the Great Depression, and it famously served as the exterior location for The Shining. Back down at Government Camp, you'll follow the Zigzag River west into lower elevation. There is ample hiking and camping opportunities along the way. Pass through Rhododendron, OR, and wrap the route at the Skyway Bar & Grill. This roadside joint features live music and BBQ right along the Zigzag River.