A Perfectly Portland Summer Ride

Riding in the city is a lot of fun, but Portland is surrounded by lush wilderness just on the fringes of the city. Take some time to soak it in with this ride that is sure to delight. This route is full of very cool features on a pleasant, short loop that takes you away from the urban madness for a little bit before gently easing you back in. You’ll discover swimming holes, bird refuges and extremely pleasant off-road paved paths.

You might want to pack: Dollars for tacos, a suit and towel for beach swimming, binoculars for birding, your camera for snapping.

Smith Bybee Kelley John

Distance: 23 miles
Elevation: Relatively flat with only 470 feet of elevation gain and one big climb. Reverse your ride to put the climb near the beginning, but we prefer to round out the trip with tacos in St. Johns.
Roads: Mostly off street paths.

Highlights:Beach, low-traffic route, teeming with opportunities to spot wildlife, watch gigantic ships sail by.
Start: North Vancouver at Skidmore, with plenty of places in the area to meet your buddies for a pre-ride coffee.
Head: North on Vancouver

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Description

Smith and Bybee lakes the the largest urban wildlife wetland refuge in the US. Stop by for a relaxing break and bird watching. Don’t forget your suit; Kelley Point Park is a fantastic beach for dipping into either or the Willamette or the Columbia river – your choice as this is where the two powerful rivers meet with plenty of low-water hang out spots. Round out your adventure with some climbing; the relaxing cruise down to the majestic Cathedral Point Park in St. Johns is worth the climb out is.

Where do you ride?

We’re highlighting favorite summertime rides. Where do you like to go?