In community, Fun, Health, Northwest Rides, Portland

We did it, everyone! After enduring nine full months of misty mornings, torrential downpours, and bad weather to make this history books (I mean for goodness sake, our Worst Day of the Year ride was cancelled because it was the worse than our typical worst day of the year!) I think it’s safe to admit summer is finally here! We can finally put our shorts on and enjoy that bright orb in the sky.

It’s about time we get to enjoy some good weather, and we want to make sure you get the most out of it. Get out there and ride this summer! Here are a few places you can enjoy the sights and scenery unique to our corner of the world:

The Springwater Corridor Trail features some of the local wetlands and wildlife still found in the PDX area. The trail itself intertwines with Johnson Creek and has more than ten bridges crossing the water! Johnson Creek is credited as one of the last free flowing bodies of water in the Portland metro area.

The Southeast Neighborhood Trail takes you on a 13 mile loop throughout the historic southeast Portland neighborhoods and along the Willamette. The trail has very few inclines, and follows low-traffic roads, bike lines, and off street paths, ensuring you can enjoy the ride a little more. Take a look at the City of Portland’s trail map to get an idea of where the trail will take you.

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a part of a non-profit effort to re purpose unused railways called “Rails to Trails.” The path used to be a part of a railway system from Portland to Seattle, and is now a 21 mile trail. Cross waterways like Beaver Creek and the Nehalem River, and view the massive trestles used during the heyday of the railroad. Take a look at the trail here.

The Waterfront Loop lives up to its name, giving you a great view of both the Willamette River and the surrounding parks. The majority of the path is on bike trails, meaning you don’t have to worry too much about motor traffic as you enjoy the scenery.

Portland’s West Hills provides for those who are looking for more of a challenging route. The entire loop is around 15 miles and has an elevation change of 1800 feet. Taking this route will bring you up Montgomery drive, past the Zoo, and even through Council Crest Park if you think you can take the extra elevation.

When you decided to take a ride, remember to be prepared, drink plenty of water, and have fun! Take a picture and tag us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram with the hashtag #PPPSummer, and you could win yourself a Walz Cap!