Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride, Metolius Preserve

Hikers enjoy an early winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
Hikers enjoy an early winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.

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.

  • Outing Details + Route

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

    Route: This ride will start at the South Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and will 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, a bike repair kit, and 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.