The McKenzie River Trail (MRT) is best accomplished with a shuttle – so that riders can experience the entire 26 miles of this IMBA epic in one go. With only 1,500 feet of total elevation loss, this “down river” cross-country trail is extremely technical and is recommended for intermediate-to-advanced riders only.
Cog Wild provides MRT shuttles from Bend upon request for private groups. This option is for folks in Bend who don’t want to drive themselves over the mountains and self shuttle the route after riding all day. If you are willing to drive to McKenzie Bridge (or are already on the west side of the Cascades), contact our friends at Horse Creek Lodge, who operate daily shuttles on the MRT.
The MRT Shuttle Includes:
- Transportation to and from Bend.
- Drop-off and pick-up options at various access points along the McKenzie River Trail
- Self-guided mountain biking on the McKenzie River Trail. Riders need to be able to navigate the route and be self sufficient: bring ample food, water and what ever else you need to support yourself for up to 5 hours on trail.
- Post ride beers provided by Deschutes Brewery. There will be room to keep your post-ride snacks cool. Snacks and other beverages are not included.
Dates:
Custom private shuttles are available for groups of 5 or more.
Times:
Start time and location: 8:00 am in Bend. Guests have approximately 5 hours to complete the ride. We will return to Bend around 5 pm.
Start Location:
Cog Wild Headquarters, Bend
Price:
$75 per person, with a 5 person minimum, or the cost of 5 people.
MRT Shuttle Cancellation Policy:
- A non-refundable 25% deposit will be taken at the time of booking.
- A final guest count must be received 7 days prior to your event..
- Remaining balance will be collected 7 days prior to your event.
- Cancellations received less than 7 days before the start of your activity are non-refundable.
*Price does not include bike rental. See our bike rental page for more information.
Riding Distance
Up to 26 miles. Lower drop points are available to make for a shorter, less technical ride for less experienced riders.
Elevation
1,000 feet of climbing.
1,500 feet of descending.
Level
Intermediate to advanced riders only. The McKenzie River Trail is not for beginners!
Terrain & Trails
The MRT is a technical trail that includes sharp lava rock, wet roots, creek crossings, steep ups and downs and sections of exposure above a raging river. The trail has extensive flat sections in the bottom few miles– prepare to pedal!
Recommended Clothing & Gear
Riders need to be self-sufficient, able to deal with mechanical issues and have enough water, food and supplies for a full day ride. At a minimum, please bring the following: first aid kit, patch kit, tubes, multi-tool, on-trail food, post-ride food, and a change of clothing for after the ride. Cog Wild will provide a cooler for your post-ride food and drinks. We will also bring Deschutes Brewery beer for you to enjoy after the ride. We will stop at the Sisters Bakery in the morning on our way over the Cascades (cash only, no cards accepted).
The ride back to Bend is about an hour and a half; we highly recommend having post-ride food for the drive back. Bring a MRT map if you have one, or maps will be available for purchase at Cog Wild ($8 – $12).
Can I rent a bike for the MRT?
Yes, Cog Wild can help with mountain bike rentals – contact us for details.
Is this a guided ride?
No, it is not. We are only permitted to shuttle you to the McKenzie River Trail. You will be dropped at the trailhead and picked up at the bottom of the trail.
We are new to mountain biking and want to ride the McKenzie Trail. Is this a good idea?
Many people are interested in riding the MRT because of its popularity and unparalleled beauty, but it is not a suitable ride for beginners. Consider riding out and back on the flatter and less technical section from the bottom trailhead.