Having lived in Eugene, OR for about five years in the mid-2000s, it caught my eye that 2017 is the 30th Anniversary of the week-long Cycle Oregon “Classic,” September 9-16.
Several friends have participated in Cycle Oregon, and all give it high marks as a well-organized event by folks who know cycling, and the best places to ride in Oregon. This year’s route is particularly appealing because in my opinion it includes some of the best cycling in Oregon.
The tour begins at Tumalo State Park, heads south to Diamond Lake/Crater Lake via LaPine, across to Dorena Lake, Oakridge to Rainbow via the Aufderheide, and lastly McKenzie pass back to Tumalo. The Aufderheide and McKenzie Pass are among Oregon’s most iconic cycling roads. The route totals 430 miles with 24,000 feet of climbing, or with all options ridden, 490 miles and 30,000 feet of climbing. There will be some some gravel options this year as well. Cycle Oregon provides hot showers, hot meals, beer/wine, live music, yoga, massage, acupuncture, coffee, smoothies, pizza and more in camp. The routes are well marked and fully supported for food/water/safety/medical/SAG etc.
In addition to the Classic, Cycle Oregon offers two other tours that may be of interest:
The Weekender is July 7-9 in McMinnville OR with a home base on the campus of Linfield College. There are multiple route options each day. Lodging options include camping or dorm accommodations. The price includes all meals, a beer/wine garden, yoga, massage, live music, and a kids cycling camp.
The first event on the Cycle Oregon calendar is a women’s only event, Joyride, on Saturday June 10. This one-day event features 3 route options through the beautiful hills of Yamhill County wine country. The start and finish is at the spectacular Stoller Family Estate Winery/Vineyards near Dayton OR. Wine, fun, sun (fingers crossed), great meal, great camaraderie, great roads, great support, great music are all on offer.
