Route Description
The Cascading Rivers Scenic Bikeway follows the woven Clackamas and Breitenbush rivers in a 70-mile route from Estacada to Detroit. Water is the dominant force that sculpts the volcanic landscape of the West Cascades. All along this route, water and rock interact to create a place of dramatic beauty and inspiration. Rivers, rapids, waterfalls, hot springs and lakes captivate and
guide the rider. Time is forgotten as a pausing rider looks up to the sky through ancient forests that line the Bikeway. Where there is water, there is life. Riders may experience glimpses of elk or a fluttering grouse or rest along the route to a symphony of forest songbirds. The bikeway parallels the nationally designated Wild and Scenic Clackamas River along rocky riffles, quiet pools and reservoirs. Beneath the waters, native runs of coho, chinook and steelhead salmon seek their ancient spawning beds. Hood and Mt. Jefferson smile down upon the exploring cyclist. Experienced riders who seek a challenge will be most attracted to this 72-mile route of forested splendor paired with a 3,125-foot climb from Estacada and 1,985-foot climb from Detroit. A shorter family-friendly ride is available from Estacada. Those coming from the north or through Portland Airport will be able to utilize the Portland TriMet system all the way to Estacada. Free parking is available in both Estacada and Detroit. Forest Service offices in both Detroit and Estacada offer campsite information and road condition reports. This route is closed during late fall and winter. Remove the stresses of civilization with a walk through the towns of Estacada or Detroit. Both are full-service towns with many options for eating. Both towns are situated on tranquil waters and are similarly rooted in historical attachments to water power, mountains and forests.
