The waves of rain barreled against our car making it difficult to see more than a hundred yards. Entering the Columbia River Gorge, big rock walls shot up to the right and a train sat waiting for signal clearance. Streams of water rushed down the volcanic cliff walls. Everything was covered in luscious green vegetation filled with ivy and tall soft and hard wood trees. I felt like Dorothy from Wizard of Oz except instead of Kansas, I wasn’t in Tahoe anymore. We came to sample the Hood River Mountain Biking it was known for. The question was would it be tacky goodness or a sludge fest? We’d soon find out.
Basecamp – The Adventure Lodge
The next morning dawned brightly from our home away from home – the Adventure Lodge. It isn’t just an ideally located boutique motel but a work of art to stay in. Each item in the room has been thought through to ensure you have a great night’s stay. For example, a high-quality memory foam mattress ensuring that you wake up refreshed. Pulling back the curtains, our breath is taken away. The large nearly floor to ceiling window overlooks the Columbia River Gorge. We catch a glimpse of the rolling landscape dotted with houses in between the low fast moving wisps of clouds and a light blue sky. The scenery made it feel as if it was painted by a French impressionistic artist.
Local Freshies® tip: If you’re fortunate enough, try to book the Private Reserve room which is their largest and has a giant comfy king bed.
Meeting Up With The HRATS
The plan that morning was to meet up with Tim Mixon, president of the Hood River Area Trails Stewards (HRATS). He was going to give us an overview of the Hood River mountain biking trails and where to ride the next few days. Hopping in our truck, we puttered into the charming downtown area. The quaint district is filled with historic brick buildings from the late 19th century and near the center is the historic Hood River Hotel where we’re meeting up with Tim and our breakfast spot – Broder Øst.
We easily find a parking spot and stroll into the lobby. The large black and white checkered tile floor complemented by white painted borders and fireplace mantel creates a welcoming spot that you’d want to cozy up to and read a book. Amidst the comfy setup, we spot Tim relaxing in one of the overstuffed leather chairs. Tall, fit, and lean from years of wind surfing, mountain biking, and other outdoor pursuits, the only hint of his age is his relaxed surfer-style silvery hair.
Use Trailforks
We brought along a paper trail map we bought from a local shop and lay it out in front of us. With a wry grin, he remarked that relying on a paper version wasn’t going to work for the Post Canyon mountain bike trails system. Trailforks, he emphasized, is by far the most up to date resource for the trail network. My jaw dropped. Mountain bike trail networks are notorious for taking herculean efforts to change due to the majority of them sitting entirely in US Forest Service land. Post Canyon trail network is unique in that much of it sits primarily on county land that’s designated as a tree farm.
How Post Canyon Came To Be
To understand why this is different for Post Canyon, you need to understand its history. Hood River was a working-class logging town that was wealthy in property with a lot of their income coming from timber. To this day, thirty percent of the county’s budget still comes from logging. Then in the 80s and 90s, timber receipts were plummeting and the property taxes in Oregon got locked in just as mountain biking was beginning to boom. It was during this period that many of the original trails were formed in the Post Canyon Trail network.
HRATS and the County Now Work Together
As you would expect, this relationship between the mountain bikers and the county has been contentious. It’s only in the last decade that things have grown where both sides see each other’s strengths and are now working together to create a healthier forest AND more biking trails. A good example of this is the Family Man staging area. Just a few years ago, it was thick with pines to the point that it was suffocating itself. Now it’s home to a perfect progression zone to introduce kids and first timers to the sport.
When to Ride Post Canyon
The question that was weighing heavy in our minds was Post Canyon rideable after such a heavy rain overnight? Should we wait until tomorrow? To our surprise, the answer was that it’s going to be hero dirt! I was shocked. Tim explained that Post Canyon, while that it had tacky clay dirt, it handles damp conditions well. This is thanks in part due its lush forest canopy. The only time it’s best to avoid riding is when the ground is frozen. Then, as the top layer thaws, it becomes a peanut buttery slip-n-slide. On such days, it’s a good idea to head out to Syncline instead.
Overview Mountain Biking Hood River
There are three major mountain biking trail networks, and each one has a prime season, VERY different feel, and experience. Post Canyon is at its best in late spring or better yet fall. During the hottest time of year, it can be weeks in between rainfall which can create little ball bearing sized clumps that are slippery. For summer, it’s about the 44 Trails system due to its high elevation, but you must wait until all the snow melts. And in winter, mountain bikers should beeline to Syncline due to its low elevation and rocky terrain.
Post Canyon
North America is filled with iconic mountain biking destinations with renowned names like Whistler, Moab, and Bentonville at the top. Among these, Hood River stands out, home to the esteemed Post Canyon trail system. Recognized as one of the pioneering gravity trail networks, it remains a top-tier destination for freeride mountain bikers, not only in the nation but quite possibly the world.
Local Freshies tip: Be aware parking passes are required at all staging areas for Post Canyon. With spotty cell coverage it’s a good idea to visit the Hood River County website to purchase your day or yearly parking pass ahead of time.
Constantly Getting Better
Spanning over 60+ miles and more than 3,400 vertical feet of descent, this trail system is big and only getting better. Constantly evolving through the dedicated efforts of HRATS volunteers, it’s a good idea to pull down the latest information on Trailforks before you head out. New trails emerge, while others may retire throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something fresh to explore.
Perfect for Every Level
The region’s dirt composition is mostly clay so don’t expect to find massive rock gardens. What you will find is an infinite labyrinth of gravity fed flow track featuring perfectly sculpted bermed turns to steep roll-downs that cut through a dense forest. And for the experts that want to gain air, the expert marked trails have huge wooden kickers that will launch you into a perfect landing. One word to describe it – FAST.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled For Easter Eggs
Another cool aspect of the entire mountain bike network is it feels like it’s filled with Easter Eggs. The harder to find the trail entrance, the cooler the signs. For example, if you do find the entrance to Splash n Giggle (slip n slide), you’ll come upon with a three-dimensional bear kayaking down a stream.
Is That an Ewok?
Post Canyon felt as if you’ve suddenly been transported to the forest moon of Endor in Star Wars: The Empire Strike Back. The smooth tacky dirty switch backs and flows down the hillsides that you’ll swear you’re being chased by the Emperor’s soldiers on your hover bike. The route yips and yaws down countless ridgelines such as Mitchell Ridge. Was that a laser blast that flew past your head? Probably not, but it definitely leaves you with a grin from ear to ear and wanting more.
The Classics
You can start at the Seven Streams staging area but Tim recommended for us to begin at the Family Man staging area. Propped in the middle, we could then pick and choose which trails we wanted to hit. Our tour was a bit of the old, bit of the new, and overall full tour showing just how big it is. Highlights included Gran Prix, Bad Moto Scooter, and Mitchell Ridge. Tim stated that Dirt Surfer is a highlight, but based on an already cram packed schedule, we couldn’t fit it in. Here’s our detailed write-up of the Post Canyon MTB trails:
44 Trails
Perched on the flanks of Mt Hood, the trail system is a “wild” outing. A stark contrast compared to Post Canyon which feels like a giant amusement park with its perfectly sculpted banked turns and infinite loops. 44 Trails is about touring. Nearly 150+ miles and 4,000+ vertical feet of XC touring. The climbs are punchier. The routes are wilder. And the adventures are bigger. This is you against the mountain.
Local Freshies tip: This is a true backcountry mountain biking experience that means you NEED to be prepared if something goes wrong so be sure that your carrying all the mtb essentials you need to fix anything on your bike or you. We did not see another person the entire day we were out there.
I Swear the Trail is Growing on Me
Don’t expect big rowdy rock gardens or complex roots to maneuver. Rather, it plunges you into the deepest darkest forests on the flank of Mt. Hood. You feel as though you’re alone with your thoughts. It feels like the weather could change at a moment’s notice, and you won’t make it back. W-I-L-D.
As you continue pedaling onward, you swear that the trail is beginning to grow in on you. And you begin to second guess yourself. Will it grow in before I finish? Will the trail disappear? When I come back will it still be here?
Am I Rip Van Winkel?
On our ride back down Cooks Meadow, I declare there were mushrooms blooming that weren’t there. The color of leaves of fall had changed from green to yellow. Had I been out so long that I became the Mt. Hood Meadows version of Rip Van Winkel. But alas it wasn’t a dream. It was a tour of the wilds of the Cascades. A nourishing cup full of the high alpine pine forests and fern covered forest floors.
To learn more about some of the best loops based on how much you have, what to expect and more be sure to visit our 44 Trails guide found here:
Syncline
With just two full days dedicated to mountain biking Hood River, we didn’t have enough time to explore Syncline. As we wrapped up our rides at both Post Canyon and 44 Trails, we regretted that our schedule was so tight. Tim had hinted at Syncline being a whole different world in terms of its topography compared to both Post Canyon and 44 Trails. Instead of pedaling under a forested canopy, you’re entirely in the open making it very unique especially within the Oregon biking scene.
Best Views of the Columbia Gorge
Although not as big as the other two trail networks, Syncline still packs a mighty punch. Stretching over 1,500+ vertical feet from top to bottom and covering more than 25+ miles, it offers a substantial riding experience. Unlike the tacky loam found at Post Canyon and 44 Trails, this network treats you to narrow, high-speed singletrack adorned with ledgy rock sections to navigate through.
Set amidst a dry, arid prairie like landscape, Syncline provides you with views of both the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood that are unparalleled out of the three. Finally, its primarily south-facing aspect translates to you being able to access it pretty much any time of year including the winter months.
Consider A Guide
If you’re planning a short trip, especially for just two or three days, and you want to experience the top trails, we highly recommend hiring a guide. As we said earlier Post Canyon boasts an extensive network of trails is continually evolving and can be overwhelming to navigate. Fortunately, Tim provided us with invaluable insights during our visit. Additionally, 44 Trails is another massive network where we felt like we missed out on some of the best views. Cog Wild offers multi-day adventures that ensure you get to experience the highlights of each network Hood River has to offer. They also organize trips to other renowned MTB spots in Oregon such as Oak Ridge and Bend. We used their services in Bend and were extremely grateful for their expert guidance. You can read about it in our article: Going Cog Wild For Bend Oregon Mountain Biking.
Where to Eat
Although Hood River has only 8,000 full time residents don’t let it dismay you to go out to dinner.
A Viking Breakfast – Broder Ost
Breakfast poses a challenge to make different, yet Broder Ost rises up to the occasion. Stepping into the cozy ambiance, you’re enveloped by decor that evokes a sense of coolness reminiscent of your hip grandma’s style. Kickstart your morning with the Coffee with Cardamom, offering a tantalizing hint of spice akin to a festive holiday drink. For the more adventurous eater, the Lefse Breakfast beckons. Sink your teeth into the hearty potato pancake, surprisingly dense yet remarkably light. Topped with fresh, in-house smoked trout, it delivers a delightful combination of freshness and subtle sweetness, reminiscent of the best flavors I’ve had since Minnesota.
For late night eats – Camp 1805 Distillery
A must stop on the Hood River waterfront. Camp 1805’s menu is constantly evolving but expect healthy options that taste good too Take, for instance, the Poke Rice Bowl, a standout choice. Piled high with over 6 oz of the largest pieces of ahi tuna I’ve ever had. The delicate balance of sauce and spice enhances the quality of the fish without overshadowing its natural flavor. Whiskey lovers don’t miss the chance to grab a bottle of their award-winning concoctions to enjoy at home.
Cool Hang-out & Scrumptious Burgers – Ferment Brewing Company
A unique PNW twist on a beer hall. Located on the 2nd floor of a modern building , its outdoor dining area offers a breathtaking view of the Hood River, making it the perfect spot to relax and hang out.
As a burger lover I often find myself disappointed, but not at Ferment. Their burger surpassed all my expectations and stands as one of the best I’ve had in over a year! Each bite was juicy, practically bursting with flavor, and the pretzel bun ensured that not a single drop of that deliciousness went to waste.
Culinary Adventure – Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen
Don’t be misled by its name—Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen isn’t just about coffee; it’s a fantastic dinner option too. This place is Asian fusion done right. Yet another restaurant that’s constantly re-inventing their menu.
When we were there standout dishes included the Masala fries. It featured the classic Indian spice elevated thick, twisted potatoes to new heights, showcasing their freshness. Additionally, the Buttermilk Fried Chicken, coated in a thick, spicy Masala sauce, delivered a satisfying crunch akin to KFC chicken but with an even better flavor.
The Hood River Way…
Over and over throughout our trip, the locals we met kept saying the same words over and over “do what’s best for that day.” If the wind is up, it’s time to wind surf. If it’s snowing up on Mt. Hood, you should be skiing or snowboarding. Rained last night? Time to get on your bike and hit up Post Canyon. In summary, on your trip here, don’t force the adventure. Let the mountains decide where you mountain bike that day. You’ll be glad that you did.
