Mt Hood Forest to High Desert Plateau

This 26-mile Wapinitia Highway route connects Highways 26 and 197, serving as a quiet double-lane highway connecting to larger loop rides. The route starts in thick conifer forest and transitions as riders head east through pine forest to juniper and sage of the high-desert plateau. Riding is fairly straight with some sweeping curves and little traffic. Wildlife crossings warrant caution. Gas is available in Maupin (at the route's end) or The Dalles (40 miles north). Tygh Valley offers a restaurant and tavern with homemade fries and burgers. Maupin provides restaurants, a general store, gas station, and white water rafting access to the Deschutes River. The route offers access to Sherar's Falls, photo pullouts at Class III rapids, and back roads to Highway 35 with views of Mt Hood that differ from typical perspectives.