This is hands-down my favorite bike tour in the Pacific Northwest.  The highlights are many (hot springs, secret caves, Alvord desert, milkshakes, historic hotels, Malheur Wildlife Refuge, etc.) and the remote nature of route makes for a bit more adventure than most tours in Oregon.
In traditional VeloDirt style, the route mixes gravel and pavement and is best suited for wider tires – I’d suggest 37c tires and up.  My Salsa Fargo was perfect; however, a more classic touring setup would work just fine.  Advance planning is critical.  Water access, camping, weather, and road conditions vary considerably throughout the year.
I used to have a very detailed write up for this route.  However, the route is now part of Ellee’s fantastic Cycling Sojourner guidebook.  My suggested deviations from the book include: (1) enlarging the loop to add the Crystal Crane Hot Springs, (2) riding the “Patrol Road” through the refuge; and (3) riding the Steens Mountain loop road to the summit if you can (it’s only open a few months of the year).

Details:

  • 200+ miles, 30% dirt

  • Route map

  • Start/End:  Frenchglen, OR (other alternatives exist)

  • Services:  Frenchglen, Fields

  • Tires:  Optimal = 37c

Terms of Use: As with each adventure route guide published on OMTM.CC, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines. The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. OMTM.CC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.