This trail is great. Lung burning climbs that can be very technical but on a good day all are possible. The downhills are long and fast.
There are also lots of ATV and dirtbike trails in this area, shooting guns is another favorite activity.
Trail Description
From the start you are climbing some steep terrain. The trail goes through a few micro climates on the way, influenced by the Tillamook Burn that toasted this area in the late 1800's and again in the early 1900's. Sometimes its dense, dark, damp, and tight. Other sections are fast and open.
If you want more than 8 miles you can connect to the Story Burn Trail, a huge 2 mile climb if going clockwise. Once at the Trail head you can ride a 2 mile bomber downhill to Gales Creek. From the Creek you have to climb 2 more miles back up to Rogers Camp parking lot via the Summit trail or gravel rd. Some people shuttle the Story Burn - Gales Creek downhill.
Getting There
From Portland the parking lot is maybe 35 miles. Take Hwy 26 to Hwy 6 near Banks Oregon. You will see the Gales Creek Camp ground on the Right then a mile or so latter Rogers Camp Rd on the Left. Turn into Rogers Camp and turn Left to the Parking Lot. The Trail Starts up the dirt bike road on the Right.
When to Bike
You can ride into the late Fall and start early Spring. Some snow just adds to the fun...
Images
"Climbing is not a matter of hauling oneself up with brute strength, but of gliding elegantly upwards."
--Herman Buhl
