Rowena Crest

The Moiser to Mt. Ulka Preserve loop offers a challenging road cycling adventure through the stunning Columbia River Gorge. This difficult 28.9-mile (46.4 km) route, with its significant 3073 feet (936 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete. You'll be treated to expansive views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood, especially as you pass through the Mt. Ulka Preserve, a cliff-edge area known for its vibrant grasslands and oak woodlands.

Planning your ride requires a suitable bike, as some sections are unpaved and can be tough on a standard race bike, potentially requiring you to push it. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the preserve's colorful wildflowers and native grasses. Ensure you're well-hydrated and prepared for a demanding ride that tests your fitness.

This loop is a notable part of the larger "Gorge Towns to Trails" project, aiming to create an extensive trail network throughout the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Mt. Ulka Preserve itself is recognized for its unique ecosystem, adding a layer of natural significance to this already scenic and challenging cycling route.

This difficult 100.1-mile road cycling century ride offers stunning Columbia River Gorge views and significant elevation gain.

The Memaloose Lookout – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Chenowith offers a truly immersive road cycling experience through the Columbia River Gorge. You'll pedal past dramatic basalt cliffs and through diverse forests, with the highlight being the historic Mosier Twin Tunnels, where carved windows provide unique framed views of the river. The route then climbs towards Memaloose Lookout, rewarding your effort with expansive vistas of the Memaloose Hills and the surrounding landscape, particularly stunning during the spring wildflower bloom.

This is a challenging ride, covering 45.5 miles (73.2 km) with a significant 3730 feet (1137 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 59 minutes. You'll need very good fitness for this difficult loop. While specific parking at Chenowith Road isn't detailed, you can access the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which forms part of this route, from nearby towns like Mosier or Hood River. Plan to carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days.

What makes this cycling route truly special is its blend of natural beauty and historic significance. It traces a section of America's first scenic highway, the Historic Columbia River Highway, with the Twin Tunnels being a restored marvel of early 20th-century engineering. The car-free sections of the trail offer a serene and safe environment, allowing you to fully appreciate the continuous panoramic views of the Gorge without traffic concerns.