The 5 Most Beautiful Bike Trails You Can Take In Portland

Portland is a city built around biking, but not everyone wants to hit the streets and roll with the traffic. If that is you, instead pick one of these lovely trails that will leave you with some amazing views, relaxing rides, and a great experience biking in the city.

1. Eastbank Esplanade

Take the 1.5-mile trek on the east side of the river, or cross the Steel and Hawthorne bridges for a 3-mile loop that follows along Waterfront Park. Either way, it is a lovely urban ride complete with a section of path that floats on the river, making this a fun trek for both adults and the younger set.

2. Marine Drive

Avoid traffic altogether by heading out to the edge of the city along Marine Drive and hit the trail. This paved, wide trail is great for beginners and younger riders, and features some great views of airplanes taking off from the airport nearby. Ride from 33rd to the I-205 bridge or continue on a smaller trail past the bridge.

3. Willamette Greenway

Head to the South Waterfront and start on the north end of the trail at SW Bancroft Street. Follow the trail along the river for a 1.7-mile one-way jaunt and come back along the same path.

4. Leif Erikson Drive

There are 30 miles of bikeable trails at Forest Park, so picking just one is hard. Try Leif Erikson Drive, an 11-mile gem that features sweeping views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and the Columbia River.

5. Mt. Tabor

Head over to our local extinct volcano and ascend 650 feet to the summit for some stunning downtown and area views. Breeze on down the mountain on the wide roads that are typically not crowded, making this a great go-to biking location.

What is your favorite scenic biking trail in Portland? Let us know in the comments below.