Columbia River Gorge & Willamette Valley Bike Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual & Premiere Hotels
Columbia River Gorge & Willamette Valley Bike Tour
6 days
5 nights
Activity Levels 2-4
Casual & Premiere Hotels
2026: Jul
Waterfalls & Wine Country in the Pacific Northwest
This place deserves a standing ovation. The scenic drama unfolds with Pacific Northwest flair, then intermission brings farm-fresh cuisine, distinctive wines and microbrews. Grab a bicycle seat—show’s about to start.
Highlights
- Spin along the Historic Columbia River Highway through the picturesque Mosier Twin Tunnels, catching glimpses of the Gorge below
- Explore captivating Waterfall Alley by bike and on foot—it’s the largest concentration of waterfalls in the world!
- Stay in charming McMinnville at the sophisticated Atticus Hotel, whose winning balance of elegance and comfort is a luxurious treat
- Embark on a route crossing the Historic Columbia River Highway’s Bridge of the Gods, a National Historic Landmark and a Bicycling magazine “must ride”
- Stop to savor fruits and vegetables picked at the peak of freshness during a ride through the fertile Hood River Valley
Start/End Portland
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Set off on two wheels to discover the lush Hood River Valley, one of the most prolific fruit-growing regions in the world • Ride along the Fruit Loop, a scenic cycling route dotted with orchards, wineries and farm stands • Enjoy lunch at a family-owned winery • Retreat to our hotel on the banks of the Columbia River, where strong winds and waves launch thrill-seeking kiteboarders and windsurfers into the air.
Nights 1-2
This comfortable riverside resort, part of the Best Western Plus collection, celebrates mid-century design featuring panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. (pool)
Day 3
Start today’s ride cycling eastward toward The Dalles, where the landscape transitions from temperate rain forest to dry grasslands • Don’t miss the views as you ride through the famous windowed Twin Tunnels leading to the town of Mosier • If you’re up for it, cruise downhill on the exhilarating Rowena Loops • Bike along the Historic Columbia River Highway, a marvel of engineering and masterpiece of landscape design once called King of the Roads • Make your way on two wheels down Waterfall Alley to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in the region • Take a moment to soak in the view of 620-foot Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state • Learn about the Native American legend that named the iconic Bridge of the Gods • Stop for lunch at a local brewery in Cascade Locks, one of the oldest towns on the Columbia River • Treat yourself to some pampering at our expansive Pacific Northwest resort, Skamania Lodge.
Night 3
A charming resort nestled on 175 wooded acres offering spectacular views of the Columbia River and Cascade Mountains. (pool, spa)
Days 4-6
Bike into the heart of the Willamette Valley, a wine-growing mecca often compared to France’s Burgundy region • Cross the Willamette River on a historic ferry • Swirl and sip some of world’s finest Pinot Noir • Set out on routes lined with hazelnut trees and nature preserves to the region’s oldest winery • Learn about the volcanic heritage of this area, which contributes to its unique and complex soils • Stay in friendly McMinnville at a chic, eco-friendly hotel in historic downtown • Bike along a peaceful, shaded route showcasing McMinnville’s charms.
Nights 4-5
A luxury boutique hotel in historic downtown McMinnville, reflective of the creative and independent spirit that defines Oregon Wine Country.
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge and Willamette Valley are popular with cyclists and drivers alike. While Backroads strives to find routes that are quiet and off the beaten track, some routes on this trip follow more heavily trafficked roads for a small portion of the ride, so please be prepared to ride with cars. Of course, you’re always welcome to jump in the shuttle to avoid the busier roads.
This trip stays two nights at the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn. We chose this hotel for its stunning location on the Columbia River shoreline and its access to world-class riding, though it offers a simpler stay and more casual service than typical Backroads accommodations.
Hotels
Adventure-Ready Hotels
Ideally located with ready access to trip activities, our Casual hotels are also known for their character and charm.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Casual Hotel
This comfortable riverside resort, part of the Best Western Plus collection, celebrates mid-century design featuring panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. (pool)
Night 3
Casual Hotel
A charming resort nestled on 175 wooded acres offering spectacular views of the Columbia River and Cascade Mountains. (pool, spa)
Nights 4-5
*Premiere Hotel
A luxury boutique hotel in historic downtown McMinnville, reflective of the creative and independent spirit that defines Oregon Wine Country.
Gallery
Share Your Adventure!
Tag @backroadstravel or use #MyBackroadsTrip to submit your photos.
Bikes
Choose Your Perfect Bike
Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
- $400 rental fee
- Fully internal battery with quick-swap capability for extended range
- Industry-leading Bosch drive unit with electronic shifting
- Featherweight titanium chassis
- Carbon wheels and hydraulic disc brakes
- Drop handlebars only
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
Included in your trip price
- Ideal for avid cyclists
- Redesigned for 2024
- Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
- Responsive, efficient and comfortable
- Drop handlebars only
Included in your trip price
- Lightweight titanium frame
- Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting
- Upright handlebars only
- Limited availability on Unplugged Bike Tours; learn more
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
Please Select a Group Size
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.