Waldo Lake Loop

Oakridge

IMBA Epic backcountry loop around Waldo Lake.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance: 31 km
Ascent: 544 m
Descent: 544 m
Duration: 2-3 hrs

Low Point: 1.6 km
High Point: 1.8 km
Gradient: 4˚

Waldo Lake is the second largest lake in Oregon, covering over 10 square miles. "One of the clearest and purest lakes in the world, you can see to depths of over 100 feet on a calm day,” writes BendTrails.Org. "Water enters the lake from snow melt and subsurface flows so there is very little soil erosion entering the lake — resulting in its deep indigo color,” they continue.

Waldo Lake, 2006 Photo: Aaron Brown, via Flickr Creative Commons

Description

Mountain bikers can pedal around the entire lake on this epic 20-mile loop. Despite this ride’s respectable length, it only climbs and descends a mere 1,800 vertical feet along its length. Consequently, it appeals to cross country and trail riders looking for a fast, scenic ride.

The singletrack is relatively buff and fast, allowing you to cover the miles quickly... that is, if you don't stop for too many photo stops!

The campground at Waldo Lake offers a great camp-and-ride experience, with the trail directly accessible from the campground.

Note: The snow stays on the ground around Waldo Lake until late in the summer. Consequently, the mosquitoes are reportedly vicious through the entire summer. Most sources recommend riding this trail in the fall, after the temps have started to cool.

Sources: https://bendtrails.org/trail/waldo-lake/ https://traveloregon.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/bicycling/waldo-lake-loop/ https://cascadesingletrack.com/WillametteNF/WaldoLake/trail.html

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.