Spotlight on Whiskey Run Mountain Biking Trails!
Since its debut in 2017, the Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trail System has quickly become one of Oregon’s top destinations for riders of all skill levels. Nestled in the scenic Coos County Forest just minutes from the Pacific Ocean, this unique trail system is renowned for its smooth, rolling trails. With 64 thrilling paths spanning over 32 miles, Whiskey Run offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration for riders of all skill levels, from seasoned pros to beginners. With the upcoming Run Whiskey Run race on Saturday, October 12, 2024—a special event hosted by the South Coast Running Club where the trails will be reserved exclusively for runners—now is the perfect time to highlight this hot spot on Oregon’s South Coast.
About the Trails: The Oregon Coast Visitors Association describes Whiskey Run as “fast, flowy, loamy, and fun,” offering a true year-round mountain biking experience with something for everyone. Riders can choose from short, easy loops to challenging downhill routes, with the trails offering a blend of flow and cross-country style. Clear sightlines, gentle climbs, and adrenaline-pumping jumps keep both beginners and advanced riders entertained. Plus, the trails come with playful names like The Snag , Dirty Dishes , Hollerback , Sour Mash , White Lightning , Bootlegger and one of our favorites, Gnome Wrecker ! In addition to the spectacular trails, Whiskey Run treats riders to sweeping ocean views and lush coastal forests of spruce and Douglas fir.
Best Time to Ride: Whiskey Run’s well-maintained trails allow riders to enjoy the system in a variety of weather conditions. While late spring through early fall is the ideal riding season, a few dry days in winter can also provide peak trail conditions. Unlike many Oregon trails that close due to harsh weather, the temperate coastal climate of Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston—draws mountain bikers year-round from across the Pacific Northwest and across the county.
How to Check Conditions: The trail system is professionally built to withstand coastal weather, though it’s best to avoid riding when the trails are muddy. We encourage visitors to always check trail reports or contact local shops and guide services for current conditions by contacting the folks at Wild Rivers Coast Mountain Biking Association at info@wrcmba.com (they usually respond within 1 business day). Moe’s Bike Shop (North Bend, Oregon), Blue Sky Bike Shop (Coos Bay) and South Coast Bicycles (Bandon) are also great resources for visitors to contact regarding trail conditions at Whiskey Run. Riders may want to familiarize themselves with Trailforks , especially during the rainy season, as they share timely updates. The platform offers invaluable interactive maps featuring trail distances, suggested route connections, and detailed elevation profiles, making it an essential tool for any mountain biking adventure.
How to Get There: Located just 17 minutes south of Coos Bay off Highway 101, Whiskey Run is conveniently situated between Coos Bay and Bandon on the Oregon’s South Coast. To get there, take Highway 101 South from Coos Bay and turn onto Beaver Hill Road to access the system from the upper trailhead. Alternatively, you can head east on Whiskey Run Road from Seven Devils Road, between Bandon and Charleston on the Oregon Coast Bike Route, for access from the lower parking lot.
How to Save on Lodging: If you’re traveling between October 1, 2024- November 30, 2024, be sure to take advantage of our 15% Off Lodging Special ! Here’s a list of lodging options on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston.
Here are some additional resources to help you plan your mountain biking adventure:
- Whiskey Run Pocket Map
- Mountain Biking for All at Whiskey Run
- Whiskey Run MTB System - A great new reason to head to the coast
- Whiskey Run Trails on MTB Project
- Why Whiskey Run is the crown jewel of Oregon Coast mountain biking
Be sure to visit our featured adventures page and our trip ideas page to find more travel ideas and inspiration. You can also follow Oregon’s Adventure Coast Facebook , @travelcoosbay on Instagram ,and TikTok to find inspiration on the best spots to visit, eat, stay and explore any time of the year.
