Willamette Valley E-Biking

MEETING LOCATION: Valley River Inn, Eugene, Oregon

MEETING TIME: 8:00 AM on Day 1

AVERAGE DAILY MILES: 30-40

TRIP LENGTH: 6 Days

RETURN TIME & LOCATIONS: Guests will be transported to the Radisson Hotel Portland Airport (arriving between 4:00 and 5:00 PM). We recommend staying the night in Portland due to possible delays in our return.  For those who may have left cars in Eugene, ROW will transport them back, arriving sometime between 6:00 and 7:30 pm.

MINIMUM AGE: 16

BIKES: ROW Pedego Bike Fleet

INCLUDED

• Professional guides and trip leadership
• Van support throughout the Oregon cycling tour
• Accommodations as listed
• Meals as noted in the itinerary
• On-trail snacks and drinks
• All planned shuttles and transfers as noted in the itinerary

NOT INCLUDED

• Airfare to Eugene or from Portland
• Alcohol
• Personal expenses
• Guide gratuities
• Travel protection
• Pre- or post-trip lodging

Day 0 | Arrive in Eugene, Oregon

Arrive in Eugene at your leisure and settle into your accommodations at our designated tour hotel. Guests who drive may leave their vehicles here for the duration of the trip and we provide return transport at journey’s end. Those flying will want to fly into Eugene and out of Portland at the end of the trip.  

This evening is yours to enjoy Eugene’s vibrant dining scene, riverside walking paths, and shops. 

• Accommodation: N/A - Recommended tour hotel is the Valley River Inn
• Meals Included: N/A

Day 1 | Row River Rail Trail to Independence - Rails, Rivers, and a Warm Welcome to Oregon

After breakfast, meet your guides for an informative orientation at 8:00 AM. We then travel a short distance to the town of Cottage Grove where we unload our bikes, have a bike fitting, and safety briefing before we start the day’s ride.

Our route is on the beautifully restored Row River Rail Trail, a gentle, tree lined corridor tracing rivers, wetlands, and historic rail bridges. The steady, forgiving grade makes for an ideal introduction to Oregon riding while your guides interpret the natural and cultural history of the region. We pass by or through one or two historic covered bridges on today’s ride.

After lunch in Cottage Grove, we travel north to Independence, Oregon, set on the banks of the Willamette River. It was the terminus of the Oregon Trail and named after Independence, Missouri where the trail started for thousands of pioneers in the 1830's and 40's. Early farmers quickly discovered the fertile soil was perfect for growing hops. Today, it's a  charming town with historic buildings and a vibrant arts and food scene. Our riverside hotel is specifically oriented towards biking groups and makes a lovely location for two nights.

• Biking Miles: 30-32 miles, all paved. A gentle grade with approximately 1000’ up/ 1000’ down.
• Accommodation: Independence Hotel or best available  
• Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 | Pastoral Riding, Ferry Across the Willamette and Wine Tasting Lunch

From Independence we ride south along the Willamette River toward the tiny riverside community of Buena Vista. Leaving town, the route quickly settles into quiet farmland where narrow rural roads wind between fields, orchards, and vineyards. Traffic tends to be light, and the landscape feels wide and peaceful, with the river never far away beyond tree lines and levees.

As you ride farther south, the countryside grows even quieter and more rural. The road gently rolls through open fields and clusters of farmhouses before eventually arriving at river's edge. One of the highlights of the ride is the Buena Vista Ferry, one of the last remaining cable ferries operating on the Willamette River. The small, flat ferry slowly pulls itself across the water using an overhead cable, to carry people and cars across the river. Roll your bike onto the ferry and contemplate the valley's history, the Native Peoples and the impact of the early settlers who came here to start a new life

Once across the river, we continue along farm roads and return to Independence. Some may want to change clothes and hop into our van to transfer to lunch, while others may want to continue riding to our very special winery lunch. One can't think about Oregon, without also thinking about Willamette Valley wine country, famous around the world, particularly for Pinot Noir. This part of Oregon sits at a latitude similar to Burgundy, France (home to the world's most expensive wines), with a similar moderate climate, with warm—but rarely hot—summers and cool nights. Climate, terroir and an embrace of tradition attracts winemakers who care deeply about farming, sustainability, and long-term quality. Organic and biodynamic practices are common, and many vineyards are farmed with a level of care you usually associate with much older wine regions. Our lunch today will showcase this philosophy and some of Oregon's delightful wines.

We return to Independence mid-afternoon with time to explore the town and relax.

• Biking Miles: 22 miles. Approximately 430’ up / down. Possible optional ride of 11 more miles to lunch.
• Accommodation: Independence Hotel or best available  
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 | Covered Bridges, Valley Roads and Van transfer to Silverton

This morning, journey east of the Willamette River for a ride through classic Oregon farmland, quiet rural roads, and historic covered bridges. The route is thoughtfully designed to showcase the gentle rhythms of valley life, with time for photographs, conversation, and a scenic picnic lunch.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Silverton and check into our accommodations at the Oregon Garden Resort. There is time to explore the expansive botanical gardens at the Oregon Garden Resort, or walk around the outside of Oregon’s only Frank Lloyd Wright House – the Gordon House. Later we meet for dinner and share the day’s adventures.

• Biking Miles: 30-40 depending on route taken. Approximately 600’ up / down.
• Accommodation: Oregon Garden Resort or best available
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 | Silver Falls State Park and Transfer to McMinnville

Ride from Silverton along quiet back roads into Silver Falls State Park, home to one of the most celebrated waterfall collections in the Pacific Northwest. Here, a network of forest trails leads past cascading falls, moss covered cliffs, and cool shaded groves.

Guests may choose to ride both directions, ride one way and return in the tour van. A picnic lunch provides a peaceful pause within this remarkable setting.

Mid-afternoon we transfer to the charming town of McMinnville where there's time to relax or explore the town. Dinner is on your own tonight, with many excellent choices available in the town.  

• Biking Miles: 17-34 depending on route taken. About 1280’ up/down
• Accommodation: McMinnville Boutique Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 | McMinnville Loop Ride

Enjoy a relaxed loop ride south of McMinnville through vineyard country and pastoral landscapes. The route follows quiet backroads that offers both scenic beauty and gentle challenge, perfectly suited to the capabilities of your e-bike.

Oregon wines feature again today as we enjoy a simple, delicious lunch at a local winery with panoramic views and time to reflect on all we've seen thus far.

After lunch we return to McMinnville and the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. Visit the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, enjoy additional wine tasting, browse local shops, or simply relax in town.

Tonight, gather for another group dinner celebrating the journey and the friendships formed along the way.

• Biking Miles: 30 miles, all paved. About 1300’up/down
• Accommodation: McMinnville Boutique Hotel
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 | Banks to Vernonia Rail Trail to Portland

A Fitting Finale

This morning, transfer to Banks to ride the iconic Banks to Vernonia Rail Trail, one of Oregon’s most beloved rails-to-trails corridors. The route winds through deep forest, across trestles, and through historic tunnels, offering a serene and car free conclusion to your journey.

Finish in Vernonia for a celebratory lunch before continuing to the recommended tour hotel near the airport. Guests who left cars in Eugene will continue with us for the two and a half hour drive south.

• Biking Miles: 42 miles, mostly paved. Gentle grade with a couple of switchbacks requiring attention.
• Accommodation: Not Included - Recommended hotel is the Radisson Hotel Portland Airport
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Important Note: We will strive to return you to the Portland airport hotel between 4-5:30 pm. If you are flying home, we recommend you spend the night in Portland due to possible delays to our return. For those continuing to Eugene we estimate we will arrive between 6:30-7:30 pm.  

New Trip: Our guides are always alert to ways to improve our trips. As a new trip in 2026, there may be modifications to the itinerary as written. If these are made, the goal is to enhance the experience and create logistical efficiency.

Getting There:
Eugene, Oregon (EUG) is easily accessed by flight. We recommend arriving the day before your trip begins to allow for a relaxed start. For guests driving, your car may be parked at the Valley River Inn for the duration of the trip for a fee. 

Departure Day:
On Day 6, guests will be transported to the Radisson Hotel Portland Airport (arriving between 4:00 and 5:00 PM). We recommend staying the night in Portland due to possible delays in our return.  For those who may have left cars in Eugene, ROW will transport them back, arriving sometime between 6:00 and 7:30 pm.

We highly recommend checking the weather prior to your trip for an updated forecast and current conditions. We recommend the following websites. 

Weather in Eugene, Oregon

Weather in Portland, Oregon

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Here at ROW Adventures, our first and foremost goal is for you to have an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some of our trips are more active than others and it’s important that you understand the physical requirement of the trip you choose. 

All of our multi-day biking trips are active adventures that involve some level of physical exertion and possible exposure to the elements including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, sun, cold temperatures and cold water conditions.  ROW Adventures is able to accommodate people with physical limitations, disabilities, and medical conditions; please speak with your Adventure Consultant if you think you will require any additional assistance while on the trip.  We ask that you consult your doctor if you have health or medical conditions that could impact your ability to participate in an active and outdoor adventure. As your trip approaches, for your own safety as well as that of the entire group, we want to make sure that you can fulfill the following physical requirements of the trip:

• Wear all protective and safety equipment that is required by ROW Adventures and recommended/required by industry-wide standards.
• Load and unload, on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion, the bus and/or van providing transportation for ROW Adventures activities.
• Perform all biking activities, including following instructions on their own or with the assistance of a qualified companion or adaptive bike.
• The ability to make a quick and controlled emergency stop.
• The ability to start and stop on a hill.
• The ability to make controlled turns in tight corners.
• The ability to ride at 10-14 mph for extended periods of time (We simply can't do the distance of desingnated miles in the allotted time otherwise.)
• Able to enter a van with an 18-inch step.
• Ability to climb 2-3 flights of stairs.
• Experience riding a bicycle for 2-4 hours at a time.

Willamette Valley E-Bike Tour Packing List

Here is a recommended list of things to pack. Add and subtract to meet your needs. Please keep your luggage to one medium sized soft-sided piece such as a duffel bag which packs into our trailer more easily. Next best is a soft-sided roller-bag. Otherwise, a regular roller bag will work as the next best option. You will also want to bring one carry-on day pack to leave in our support van during the day, where you will access at lunch and other points when we meet up with the van. We will provide 2 luggage tags per guest. The two-bag guideline is strictly enforced. Please note that if you do not attach the provided luggage tag to your bag, there is a risk that the bag may be left behind.

E-Bike: We are providing Pedego Interceptor Bikes for your enjoyment. We will assign you a bike based on your size and our availability.

E-Bike Battery: We provide only one battery per day. Our guide carries a spare battery on the trail in case it’s needed, but you will need to pedal in order for your battery to last the day. In the evening we give you your battery and a charger in a small backpack to take to your room and charge. Most guests do not have any difficulties with the mileage each day provided they use the battery conservatively. If you desire a secondary battery, we have a limited amount of extra batteries available for an additional $125 on the 5-day tour.

Recommended Bike Specific Clothing

Remember that we ride 22-40 miles each day, which may be further than you are used to. This is why we recommend padded bike shorts and a few other things that may be new to you. As well, we recommend checking the weather prior to your trip departure and adjusting the quantities accordingly based on current forecasts. 

• 3-4 pairs of padded bike shorts or padded liners
• 1 pair of full-length bike pants or athletic pants
• 3-4 short-sleeve performance fabric shirts or bike jerseys, bright colors are great for visibility 
• 2-3 long sleeve performance fabric shirts
• 1 light fleece or performance jacket for layering
• 4-6 pairs of performance fabric socks

*Please note, while this trip takes place during Oregon’s dry season, we recommend checking the weather forecast prior to departure and bringing a lightweight raincoat in case the Pacific Northwest decides to surprise us.

Recommended Accessories

• 1 pair of bike gloves, short-fingered and padded preferred
• Helmet (helmets are included with bike rental, but many people prefer their personal helmet)
• 1 helmet liner or thin hat
• 1 water bottle or hydration pack (We provide one insulated bike water bottle and recommend you bring a second one as well)

Optional Accessories

• Personal handlebar or seat bag (will be provided if you don’t have one)
• Sun brim or visor for your helmet.  
• Chamois cream or butter
• Full fingered bike gloves or glove liners *optional and for cool forecasts
• Toe covers for your biking shoes *optional and for cool forecasts
• Helmet or handlebar mirror
• Your personal bike shoes (if clip in, be sure to bring your own pedals)    
• Personal bike seat    
• Padded seat cover    
• Waterproof case for your camera or phone

Casual Attire

• 2-3 long bottoms (pants, skirt, etc)
• 1-2 short bottoms (shorts, skirt, etc)
• 2-4 short sleeve shirts
• 1-2 long sleeve shirts
• Undergarments 
• Walking or casual shoes
• 1-2 lightweight layering pieces such as a sweater, jacket, fleece

Personal Items

• Any necessary prescription medications 
• Allergy or other needed medications
• Personal hygiene items (Small bottle of hand sanitizer and hand soap)
• Sunscreen & SPF lip balm 
• Back up contact lenses or glasses
• Polarized sunglasses

Layering

Layering is a critical component to being prepared for outdoor activities and best prepares you for changing temperatures. First, wear a good wicking layer as your “against the skin layer”. This will help with moisture management and the dryer you are, the more comfortable you will be. Wool or synthetics are the best. They both work – the biggest pro on the wool side is odor control. Wool is naturally anti-bacterial and can be worn for multiple days in a row. It also provides excellent temperature regulation. Synthetics, on the other hand, dry a little faster and are often lighter weight. You can’t really go wrong as long as you aren’t wearing cotton (unless it’s an incredibly hot day!)

Other Items

• Cell phone and charger
• Credit/debit cards
• Travel insurance confirmation (if purchased)
• Medical insurance cards

• Northwest Passage: The Great Columbia River, William Dietrich, 2005, University of Washington Press
• Native Peoples of the Northwest: A Traveler's Guide to Land, Art, and Culture, Jan Halliday and Gail Chehak, 1996, Sasquatch Books
• The Good Rain: Across Time & Terrain in the Pacific Northwest, Timothy Egan, 1990, Vintage Books
• Tribal Histories of the Willamette Valley, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, 2018, Oregon State University Press
• The Willamette River Field Guide, Travis Williams, 2018, Ooligan Press

Pedego Electric Bike Fleet

Amtrak Cascades Route

ROW Gear Store - Shop ROW merchandise in preparation for your trip!

The Best Things to do in Eugene, Oregon - Read our blog to find ideas for exploring Eugene before or after your trip.

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