Umpqua River Adventure
Do you relish in technical singletrack? Roots, rocks, waterfalls, steep climbs and fast, fun descents? Are you wanting to ride one of IMBA's Epic Rides through some of the most breathtaking scenery you could imagine? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, the North Umpqua River Trail is waiting for you.
Join Cog Wild to focus on the riding - not shuttling the trail, feeding yourself after a long day in the saddle or even what beer to enjoy around the campfire - this trip has everything covered. Mother Nature provides the old growth forests, glorious waterfalls and a variety of ever-changing ecosystems and Cog Wild covers everything else - we invite you to come ride.
The ride takes you downstream along the North Fork of the Umpqua River. We’ll ride point to point, camping along the river with access to great swimming holes and a natural hot spring. Thanks to our partner Deschutes Brewery, you can enjoy some locally brewed beer after each day of riding.
Friday: Our journey starts above Lemolo Lake, at the top of the North Umpqua River Trail. Within the first mile we’ll check out the 135-foot Lemolo Falls. In the native Chinook language Lemolo means “wild” or “untamed”, a name that will seem apt as you continue through the rugged canyon. We’ll follow the North Umpqua River along steep forested slopes and over tight rocky stream crossings to our first destination at Toketee Lake. The trail includes rollers and banks for those looking for some bonus airtime. After the ride, relax at camp with a refreshing swim or soak in the natural hot springs while the guides prepare the feast.
Mileage: 22 miles Saturday: Today we’ll ride from camp at Toketee Lake on some of the fastest, smoothest trail of the trip. At first, the trail contours up and away from the river to a viewpoint high up in the river canyon. Keep an eye out for soaring raptors such as eagles, osprey and peregrine falcons. From this high point, you will be rewarded with a long, continuous downhill back to the river. Our ride takes us through drier, though no less spectacular, forests as we lose elevation to end at the Horseshoe Bend Trail Head.
Mileage: 18 miles
Sunday: Today's ride takes us through some of the most spectacular country in Oregon. As we continue downriver, you may see some migrating Chinook salmon and Steelhead heading up river to spawn. We’ll climb more today than on the previous days, but the pay off will be descending smooth, flowing singletrack. By the end of the day you will have the satisfaction of completing one of the most famous rides in the country!
Mileage: 26 miles
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