O’Leary Trail Loop
This stunning trail offers views, big climbs, thrilling decents and will leave you with the satisfaction of completing one of the biggest, baddest epic trails in Oregon.
An Advanced Trail along O’Leary Mountain Ridge
This Epic ride is the burly, back county brother to the nearby and more famous McKenzie River Trail. While the McKenzie River Trail offers easily accessible single track, the O’Leary Trail Loop serves up endless back country adventure with narrow trail hurtling into tight switchbacks, rock walls built decades ago by Civilian Conservation Corps, throttling climbs, and a final descent that makes you forget the pain.
Trail Highlights
Originally build by the Civillian Core in the 1930’s, the trail got a bike oriented make over about 5 years ago.
If you consider yourslf a serious mountain biker, you’ll want to experience this top IMBA Epic ride!
“This trail is just spectacular. Probably the most physically demanding trail I’ve ever ridden with long stretches of 18% grade. I’ll admit that I did some pushing to keep my heart rate in check. We rode this trail and the McKenzie River Trail in less than 24 hours and my body felt absolutely beat. Huge credit to the trail maintainers who keep this backcountry trail in stellar condition.”
Travel Journal
We’re looking to link to a great blog post from fans who have ridden this trail. If that’s you, please reach out to us.
For now, we’ve included a link to an O’Leary Trail blog post from WheelsandWater from 2016
Tips & Resources
Highlights
“there are only a few of the legally-ridden trails which offer that really out-there backcountry feeling. Enter the O’leary loop. Expect big climbs, narrow tread, bear grass, rhododendrons, great views, some switchbacks, and one ripping descent to cap it off.” – dirtmagnet blog
Food & Drinks
Water – Bring lots of water – this is a big trail. You’ll want to stay hydrated. There are a couple of small creeks, yet no potable water sources on the trail.
Food – Bring snacks – This big climb requires a lot of fuel.
Places to Eat – After ride, there are a few restaurants near the bottom of the trail. McKenzie Station Pub, Obsidian Grill, Takoda’s
Necessary Gear
The Basics: A quality bike and a bike helmet are your basics. Don’t forget a patch kit and pump.
Body Armor: Most riders do not wear body armor on this ride. Choose what works for you.
No Bailouts: If you think you’ll need it, bring it with you.
VisitMcKenzieRiver.com for more information on area activities, food and lodging.
Reserve Your O’Leary Trail Shuttle
DAILY SHUTTLES
Shuttles are scheduled daily, a reservation is required. If no one is booked, the shuttle doesn’t run. Seats are limited. Best to book at least 24 hours in advance.
The Shuttle serves mountain bikers, hikers (with or without gear) and runners.
This shuttle has a couple start locations along the trail.
Custom Shuttle Times are Available. Call for details 541-822-6272
Shuttle Meeting Location
Shuttles meet in the parking lot between Blue Sky Market and Takoda’s restaurant in Rainbow OR. Its near the end of the ride at the King-Castle Tailhead.
Directions are provided in Shuttle reservation receipt.
Flexible Cancellation Policy
You may reschedule or cancelled due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Cancellations and reschedules require 24 hour advance notice.
Shuttles Provided by:
McKenzie River Mountain Resort
The resort is one of the primary sponsors that make this website possible.
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