Mountain bikers blaze Oakridge trails

Oakridge, Ore., a former timber-industry town, is emerging as one of the West’s newest mountain biking Meccas.

Thousands of fat-tire enthusiasts have been descending to this area 40 miles east of Eugene to ride trails that mountain biking clubs have been grooming for years.

It’s a jumping-off point for scenic pedals and gnarly trail rides, as well as a growing number of races and festivals.

There may be no better time to visit this area than now, before the place is thoroughly discovered. Miles of single-track very unlike the populated trails of Moab and Utah can be found around Oakridge with unparalleled views of lakes and mountains.

“There are 500 miles of trail within one hour of Oakridge,” says Randy Dreiling, a longtime race promoter and founder of Oregon Adventures. “There are so many opportunities out there.”

The town doesn’t have a clothing store, but it’s got its own bike shop.