When We Like to Ride This

Spring through Fall. Best in the spring. Summer can be hot. Fall is hunting season.

Note that this ride tops out at 5300 feet of elevation in the Ochoco forest. Thus, snow is always a consideration. Thus, we have marked in yellow those months that you need to check snow levels before you go.

Terrain & Riding

The first paved sector is from downtown Prineville out the Crooked River Canyon to the top of the grade above Prineville Reservoir and down the other side. The climb of the grade is a little over 4 miles and about 900 feet. The steepest pitches are at the start. The descent of the other side is a bit shorter and less steep.

At mile 28 the gravel begins. Ride through rolling farm and ranch country, up and over the Maury Mountains and down into Post. At Post, refuel at the General Store on milkshakes and meatloaf sandwiches. From mile 28 to mile 54 is uphill at 1 to 2% until the turn onto Kloochman Creek road, where the grade steepens to 5%. The descent into Post is 11 miles with a loss in elevation of 2000 feet.

From Post, it is paved until the finish, 27 more miles. Ride along the scenic Crooked River for a bit, climb some (900 feet over 4 miles), and then drop back down into Prineville.

The Start

Good Bike Co bike shop in downtown Prineville.. Flush toilets, water, beer and bike parts!

Food & Water

• ~ Mile 65: Post General Store

Route Notes

1. One helpful hint for this ride. Start with your tires at a higher pressure, like 50 to 60 psi, at the gravel drop the pressure down to 20 to 30 psi, and back at the Post General Store air your tires back up to 50 to 60 psi.

2. The only aide station is at the Post General Store (mile 66). Also, there is very limited cell phone service along the route. You should plan on being self sufficient.

Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!