Mountain Biking in Bend, Oregon: Everything You Need to Know

Plan your rides

1. Start at Phil’s

Phil’s is the main trail network just outside of town and the “OG” of Bend mountain biking. It’s where locals head for quick post-work laps, and it’s a great place to start if you’re visiting for the first time. I definitely spent a good chunk of time getting my bearings there.

There’s nothing super technical or steep at Phil’s, but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun. The network is packed with pedaly, flowy cross-country singletrack that’s fun for all levels, plus a few hidden tech lines and advanced features if you know where to look.

2. Move up to Wanoga

Wanoga is basically an extension of Phil’s, but the trails are farther up the slope toward Mt. Bachelor, so most people either drive up or shuttle. If you decide to pedal from Phil’s, know you’re in for a 17-18+ mile day!

Wanoga has some of the best mountain bike trails in Bend (IMO) including Funner, Tiddlywinks, and Tyler’s Traverse. These trails have a bit more elevation to them, so they don’t feel quite as XC as Phil’s, but they’re still not exactly technical (although Funner has some pretty good tech alt-lines).

If you don’t have a shuttle, these trails can easily be lapped since each has its own climbing trail. Keep in mind that Wanoga is often snowed-in until late spring.

3. Head into the backcountry at Swampy and Dutchman Flat

If your idea of a perfect day on the bike includes big backcountry climbs, ripping descents, stunning views, and a variety of terrain, head up to the Swampy area and Dutchman Flat. These trails sit closer to Mt. Bachelor and offer some of the most beautiful, forested riding around Bend.

The ecosystem up here is completely different from the drier trails closer to town—it reminds me of Southeast Alaska with its lush vegetation, towering trees, loamy dirt, and rushing creeks. It’s probably my favorite place to ride in the Bend area. Just be prepared for plenty of pedaling and higher elevations; most of the trails sit around 6,000 feet.

4. Ride the lifts at Mt. Bachelor

And finally, there’s Mt. Bachelor. If you’re looking to give your legs a break from all the pedaling, the Mt. Bachelor Bike Park is just a 40-minute drive from Bend and has everything you’d expect from a lift-served bike park: flow trails, jump lines, and rough, natural DH tracks for all levels of rider. I will say, though, that the terrain is definitely on the loose side. Don’t expect nice loamy trails with good traction.

I’ve only ridden Mt. Bachelor once, but it was a great experience even though we were still riding between snow banks. I’d love to go back for more laps. Plus, the alpine views from the top? Absolutely epic.

5. Spend a day on the Deschutes River Trail

The Deschutes River Trail is one of my favorite rides in Bend. It’s so beautiful! The trail follows the scenic Deschutes River and it goes all the way from downtown Bend to Lava Butte.

The best way to ride the Deschutes River Trail, though, is as a one-way shuttle. But if you don’t have two cars (or don’t want to take an Uber), you can do an out-and-back. Not all sections are created equal, though, so be sure to read my post to find out which sections are the best.

6. Head farther afield

Phil’s, Wanoga, Swampy/Dutchman, and Mt. Bachelor are the closest trails to Bend, but there’s also great riding within a short driving distance. In fact, some of my favorite riding is farther afield. Here are a few other places to check out on your mountain bike tour of Bend: