Hi All,

I'm planning to ride from Hood River to Timberline and back with some friends, but would like some advice about the Government Camp to Timberline portion of the route.  For a road bike is it best to take the main road between Government Camp and Timberline, or is the forest service road better?  Google maps shows W. Leg Rd., aka, NFD road 2645, going up to Timberline.  Is this road appropriate for road bikes?  If so, is it more or less steep than the main road?

Thanks,

Dave Jasa

Hey Dave-

I think the maion road between Government Camp and Timberline is awesome for bikes - never actually rode it, but was up there a couple weeks ago. The road is very well-paved and the views are spectacular! We saw a few cyclists who rode form Lake Oswego to Timberline - in the snow! So I think you'd be in good shape taking this road.

Carlo

The main road is fine for an ascent. Cars are driving at a fairly modest speed, and there's plenty of room. The road is smooth. Distance is 6 miles, with an average grade of between 6% and 12%. It's not a hard climb, unless you've already got loads of miles on your Legs.

 For the descent, that main road is perfect. Only one or two technical corners. Just let her rip. Smooth surface, few if any holes. You can outdistance cars on the steeper pieces. They don't corner as well.

I've never ridden the service road - so don't know what that is like.

Hello Dave.

Personally- I like the Forest service road better than the main access road. Honestly its probably not any easier. I'm not a hill climber per se so for me (210 to 213 lbs) its 50 to 105 minutes to cover the 6 miles (ave grade ~8 %?) from Govt Camp to Timberline.

What I like about the access road- low traffic and for most of the climb you are in the trees. Another aspect- there are sections of the main access road that can be demoralizing. Just when you think you are at the top- you look up to see the "guard rail" continue ...way up above you. :. >

This year however- make sure you check in with the Forest Service. I would not be surprised to find snow still covers the Forest service road. We had a great snow pack this year.

Last comment- be sure and pace yourself, eat well. You'll be climbing (smaller passes) on the return to Hood River too.

A funny perk- be prepared for folks visting Timberline lodge to look at you like you are the most *crazed fool* on earth. They are awe struck to see cyclists ride this route.

Pardon me.. I meant to add I recommend you descend on the main road.

I have climbed both the main road and the forest service road.  The forest service is much nicer.  Descend either way.

I'm with Dean, service road all the way on the ascent.  It's like a climb in Europe through the trees on a quiet narrow road with occasional glimpses of the mighty HOOD.  Also, if it's a warm day the trees offer great shade and you don't have either the heat from the main road pavement nor the car exhaust to deal with as you grind skyward.

For the descent it's main road and let'er rip and run.  Don't ride your brakes or they will over heat on a warm day flyin' down that slope.

 It's one of my favorite climbs and Dean's right, the stares you get in the Timberline parking lot are priceless.

KRhea

Take plenty of water and stop at that last fruit stand on HWY35 for some more.   Did the ride around Hood yesterday and HWY35 doesn't have a bit of shade on the entire road.

I agree, take the off road up and main road down to Timberline.  I've done that route many times from Welches.

Enjoy the ride.