Macks Canyon
Credits & Acknowledgements
A big thanks to the Imperial River Co for sharing this route with us!
When We Like to Ride This
The route is rideable most of the year. However, we really, really like this route in the spring time (as early as April 1). And, if you can, ride it in the late afternoon / early evening such that on the return portion of the trip, the sun is just beginning to set. The lighting over the river at this time makes for a very special ride.
The best riding is to be had just after the grade the road. Otherwise, it can be a washboard beat down. The BLM typically grades it twice a year—once just before Memorial Day and again shortly after Labor Day. Occasionally, a third grading occurs in early April. For more details, contact the Prineville BLM office.
Terrain & Riding
There’s constant entertainment with the river as well: rafters floating down the river, fishermen competing against water birds to catch fish, and campers dispersed among random campsites. Oh yes, and fat wild turkeys that get rather confused on take off (we are still thankful they didn’t take out a bike!)
At the end of the road, there’s a small hiking trail that will allow you to continue your journey along the river and make your way to the Columbia River. If you continue past our route, be forewarned, there is an ~ 4 mile section of single track with some hike-a-bike. Our Mother of the Mountain guys have investigated this section of trail and written a bit about it. A proposed route using this connector is detailed here.
The route is relatively flat with a few 100 foot climbs that are just long enough to make you winded. What slows you down is pausing or stopping to take photos because there are a million “Kodak” moments.
The Start
At the end intersection of Sherar’s Bridge highway and the BLM access road, north of Maupin by ~ 10 miles. Park on the shoulder of the road.
Food & Water
- None
Route Notes
This route has a tendency to develop washboard. The BLM typically grades it twice a year—once just before Memorial Day and again shortly after Labor Day. Occasionally, a third grading occurs in early April. For more details, contact the Prineville BLM office.
Route Options
Longer
Start at Maupin City park and ride to the published start via the Deschutes River road on the east side of the river. This option adds 18 miles and 500 feet of gain. The entire route out and back will is 54 miles and 1250 feet of gain. The added sector is a paved, narrow winding road, with little traffic, that is very scenic.
- Route: Macks Canyon (Maupin City Park start)
- GPX File: Download
- Start Lat/Long: 45.173110, -121.072400
An alternative spot to park is at Imperial River Company (a great place to grab a burger and brew afterwards), a few hundred yards to the west of the below published start. Please go inside and touch base before doing so.
Love Where You Ride! Learn More
This ride follows the lower Deschutes River — more than just a scenic backdrop, it’s the lifeblood of Maupin. Its cold, clean waters support a thriving ecosystem and sustain local economies built around recreation and tourism. But this iconic river is at risk and needs our collective care.
The Deschutes River Alliance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is leading the charge to protect and restore the river’s health — but they can’t do it alone. As riders and stewards of these wild spaces, we all have a role to play. Whether it’s through time, talent, or financial support, giving back helps ensure the places we love to ride remain wild, clean, and thriving for generations to come.
Videos
The Fight for the Lower Deschutes River
Discover the story of Oregon’s Lower Deschutes River in The Last 100 Miles, a powerful documentary about the fight to restore a once-pristine river damaged by well-meaning changes. Anglers, scientists, and locals rally to protect this wild place. A must-watch for conservation advocates.
Keep it Local! Learn More
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