Question 1

🗓️ When is the best time to go?

Accepted Answer

Bend is a summer mountain biking destination. You can visit in the spring, but the higher-up trails will most likely be covered in snow. When I visited Bend in May, I got caught in a massive, chilly downpour as well as a squall with hail and wind. If you're visiting in the shoulder seasons, be prepared with extra layers because the weather can turn fast! Fall is usually pretty nice, but the weather can also be unpredictable.

June through September is typically the prime season for mountain biking, but depending on the year you may be able to ride the lower stuff as early as May and as late as October.

The website Bend Trails does a great job updating trail status so you can see what the trail conditions are.

Question 2

⌛️ How many days do I need?

Accepted Answer

Honestly, you could spend a summer in Bend and still find new and fun trails and routes to ride. If you really want to get a feel for the mountain bike scene, I recommend spending at least 4 days there.

Question 3

🚗 Do I need a car to get around?

Accepted Answer

A car really isn’t necessary, actually, to explore the mountain bike trails in Bend. If you don’t have a car, I recommend booking a room at the LOGE Hotel. You can pedal to Phil’s from there and catch a Cog Wild shuttle right from the hotel.

Question 4

🚐 If I shuttle, that means it’s all downhill, right?

Accepted Answer

Wrong. Even if you take a shuttle, you'll still be pedaling more than you probably want. Depending on what route you take, it may feel like you didn't take a shuttle at all! Bring water and pack snacks.

Question 5

🏠 What’s the best bike shop?

Accepted Answer

There are a few great bike shops in Bend. I like Pine Mountain Sports and Sunnyside Bike Shop.

Question 6

🚲 What bike should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Definitely a shorter travel cross-country bike. Don’t bring the kitted out Enduro rig.

Question 7

🚴 Are there any group rides?

Accepted Answer

Pine Mountain Sports occasionally hosts ree group rides. Check their calendar. I joined a co-ed ride during my most recent trip to Bend and had a blast!

Cog Wild also has group rides for a fee (which includes a shuttle and post-ride beverage).

Question 8

⛺️ Is there camping around Bend?

Accepted Answer

There is free camping around Bend in the Deschutes National Forest. You can stay for up to two weeks. I use the app AllStays (paid) and iOverlander (free) to find both free and paid camp spots.

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Maston Trail System: A Cross-Country Mountain Biker’s Favorite Near Bend, Oregon

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Biking The Deschutes River Trail from Sunriver to Bend, OR

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