Breaking Down the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway
Maps and videos show what you can expect while riding one of Oregon's best bike routes.
Our cycling group typically travels with a SAG vehicle whenever we go far off the communications grid. The four of us select a 60-mile route, for example, and split it into 15-mile segments. Everyone pedals 45 miles and drives SAG support for the other 15, making sure to always be near riders should they ever be in need.
One person in our group always likes to drive the flattest miles because he loves to climb and never misses his ascents. The rest of us divide the remaining duties equitably.
I drew the third shift on the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway (miles 30 to 45), meaning I drove while the others worked their way up the steepest part of the ride.
I want to go back and do it all again. I have two good reasons. First, I want to understand the climb, and second, I want to enjoy the day-long adventure once more.
The Scenic Bikeway
The Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway, established in November 2024, is the 18th route in Oregon’s official scenic bikeway system. It’s the fourth bikeway with some or all of its mileage inside Lane County.
I’ve ridden the other 17 bikeways, all chronicled in my book “Cycling Across Oregon,” and this may quickly become one of the most popular rides in the state network. There is limited motor traffic throughout; the road surface is better than expected for such a rural setting, the dense forest experience is fulfilling, and the challenge is there for anyone seeking a small test.
It’s an easy route to follow. While the main road (Forest Road 19) changes names on the map, there are very few turns. We started at the south end and rode north to Rainbow, primarily because we planned to drive 10 miles the next morning and climb the western slope of the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway.
We’re glad we did. The ride to Rainbow constituted a lush old-growth forest along slight uphill grades, a two-and-a-half-mile Category 3 climb, exciting descents on twisting roads, and a relaxing finale.
The Breakdown
This is a point-to-point route totaling 65.5 miles. There is approximately 3,800 feet of elevation gain no matter which direction you ride.
We drove in on Highway 58 from Eugene and Interstate 5, first stopping in Oakridge for food and then moving to nearby Greenwaters Park for sunscreen, tire checks, and restrooms.
The route officially starts in Oakridge, but we concluded that riding on busy Highway 58 was not safe. We didn’t like the limited road shoulders, so we skipped the first 2.5 miles and advanced to Westfir-Oakridge Road where we unloaded bikes and started pedaling.
0-15 Miles
The map says “Westfir-Oakridge Road” here and other local names will appear later on, but it’s all national Forest Road 19. It’s also called the Aufderheide Scenic Byway, an invitation for motorists to drive and enjoy the scenery. Don’t let that idea dissuade you from riding here. We faced very little traffic throughout the day, and the vehicles we encountered all gave us a wide berth.
The road is flat and fast to start. The first major landmarks are the Office Covered Bridge and the Westfir Lodge in the tiny town of Westfir. The lodge and its Mountain Market are excellent stops.
Back on the pedals, the road tilts only slightly uphill. We never seem to mind.
15-30 Miles
The beautiful timberland continues. We have the Douglas firs, a gentle breeze buffeting branches, occasional river views on our side, and pavement sweeping around bends as we continue to climb through the Willamette National Forest.
30-45 Miles
The day’s only serious ramp starts at about mile 37. The average grade for the next 2-plus miles is 6.5 percent, and some spots reach 9 percent. Find a comfortable gear and push through, because it’s well worth it. Once over the top, you’ll drop more than 1,100 feet in the first four downhill miles and 1,500 feet by mile 45.
The road bends, it crosses creeks, and it twists through the trees as it continues on its downward trajectory. Sure, there are short, occasional rises, but it still points downward again and again.
45-65 Miles
Watch for some 3 percent climbing at mile 54 as you approach Cougar Reservoir. Follow the road along the reservoir’s west side for 6 miles and then prepare for one final, 2-mile plunge. Once on level ground, note a turn at mile 62.7 on your RidewithGPS map. The instinct may be to veer left on Cougar Dam Road; it was for us. The correct move is to turn right and pedal to Rainbow.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/6647075
Final Words
There are certain experiences I want to enjoy every year. I try to climb McKenzie Pass every year. I want to circle Crater Lake on Rim Drive. I now have a new must-do scenic bikeway.
The Aufderheide is accessible from the Willamette Valley, serene for much of the ride, and thrilling once any hard work is done. There’s time to absorb and appreciate the beauty. It helps define why we ride.
Dan Shryock is a travel writer and career journalist who focuses on cycle tourism. Based in Oregon, his work has appeared in magazines and websites in California and the Pacific Northwest. His book, “Cycling Across Oregon: Stories, Surprises & Revelations Along the State’s Scenic Bikeways” is available on Amazon.