Oregon Gulch Loop

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

A big loop tour with a steep and fun downhill.

This loop begins at the visitors center where there is ample parking and water. Start the ride by crossing Hwy 75 and turning onto the Harriman Trail. The Harriman Trail is generally wide with a fine gravel surface and winds through wide meadows of scrub, grasses, and scattered wildflowers. Aspen groves and evergreen stands alternate as the trail crosses the river repeatedly. Enjoy views Galena Peak and the impressively colored Boulder Mountains.

The trail crosses numerous side access roads- these intersections are marked by gates for safety. For the most part, the Harriman Trail stays on the south side of Highway 75, but does cross the highway near the Wood River Campground, so use caution in this area.

At mile 8.5 you'll come to the Baker Creek Road - turn left here and leave the Harriman Trail. The climbs stays easy as you continue to climb. At mile 11.8 you'll turn left onto the East Fork of Baker Creek. This road has very little traffic and the climbing is steeper, but you'll have some nice views and some great break spots. Near mile 17, you'll pass Curly's Trail and then have just a little more climbing to the top. You'll see a yurt near the top and this will tell you the trail is close. After passing the yurt, keep an eye out for the Oregon Gulch trail on the left. It has a sign, but involves a 50ft hike-a-bike.

The first part of Oregon Gulch, known as Upper Oregon Gulch Edge of the World, is not for the feint of heart. It starts off of Forest Service Road 168, and ascends incredibly steeply right from the gun. Shortly after, Edge of the World lives up to its namesake, and drops precipitously for the next 3 miles. Be ready for loose, rocky, and sometimes rooted terrain to follow you all the way down this beast of a descent. It's all rideable, but you'll want to be a confident descender to tackle this one.

Once you hit the creek, you are now on the Lower Oregon Gulch trail. You'll follow a creek past ponds, through meadows and grasslands, small stands of aspen, and finally through nice, green forest. This area is not burned and is a little cooler than other trails to the south. Unlike the Upper Oregon Gulch (Edge of the World) trail, this is smooth, never very steep, and nontechnical. Fun!