Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride, Metolius Preserve

Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.
Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Gary 'Gus' Gustafson for a 6-8 mile intermediate* mountain bike ride at the Metolius Preserve. Visit all three sections of the forested 1,240-acre Metolius Preserve following singletrack trails and dirt roads. Along the way, we'll stop in various locations and talk about the many hidden qualities of the Preserve, including habitat types, animal and bird species present, fish passage, vegetation, and other interesting tidbits. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

*Intermediate-level riders are riders in good physical condition and comfortable riding in areas of loose dirt and sandy soil. Riders should be able to ride over obstacles in the trail such as rocks and vegetation. This ride does not take place on smooth, well-packed trails. It is a mix of logging roads and trails with some climbs and descents.

Face masks: Per Oregon Health Authority (OHA) guidelines, face masks are no longer required indoors or outside. Individuals who wish to wear a face mask may do so.

  • Outing Details + Route

    **Ride Rating:** This is an intermediate 6-8 mile mountain bike ride on dirt roads and singletrack trails.

    **Route:** This ride will start at the North Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and explore trails in the area. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    **Elevation gain/loss:** There is moderate elevation gain/loss on this ride.

  • What to Bring

    Your bike, helmet (it is required during your ride), a bike repair kit, plenty of water, and snacks/lunch. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    The Metolius Preserve is a 1,240 acre forested Preserve near Camp Sherman, Oregon. The Deschutes Land Trust established the Preserve in 2003. The Preserve contains mature ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western larch, as well as a rich diversity of other plant species. Three miles of Lake Creek, an important tributary to the Metolius River, flow through the property, contributing to the rich habitat found on the Preserve.

  • Accessibility

    The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.