5 Types of MTB Trails in the Pacific Northwest

 

Dense Forest

Typically dense forest will contain large trees, such as pines, with smaller plants on the ground, such as ferns and blackberries. These are my favorite areas to bike for many reasons. I prefer biking in shade so I'm not too hot on the climb. The dirt is also great for jumps and berms, and the numerous tree roots help hold the trail place. 

Sparse Forest

Sparse forest is typically found in eastern Oregon and Washington, but west of Bend, OR. These tend to have looser dirt than dense, but not looser than desert. These types of forests can be found around the west side of bend, or around areas that have been logged. Rocky Point, a MTB trail network in Scappoose, OR, is an example of this. 

Alpine 

Alpine Trails are typically found on mountains above or near the tree line. The dirt conditions vary with location, anywhere from smooth dirt to loose, rocky trails. Many of these trails are ski runs during the winter and bike trails in the summer. 

Desert

This type of trail is mostly on the eastern side of Oregon and Washington, more on the east side of Bend. These trails feature rocks and loose dirt, often resulting in dust during the winter. Goggles are the best way to combat dust when biking. Deserts are also usually the hottest, as there is no trees to shade you. 

Coastal

Trail conditions in the coastal area are often similar to dense forest, although it is often colder and windier. Depending on where you are, it could also be sandier, usually its pretty similar to the dense forest.