Wednesday Waterfalls Series: Theme & Variations

Description

EAST FARADAY ROAD TO SWITCH CREEK OUT & BACK. This is a gorgeous, low‑stress route that follows the Clackamas River upstream and treats us to a string of waterfalls, rapids, and forest views the whole way. If you’re craving a peaceful ride with plenty of scenery and a friendly pace, this is the perfect one to jump in on. Expect multiple waterfalls, creeks, and tributaries visible from the road, smooth pavement and steady river views, a relaxed social pace, and plenty of photo opportunities. This is a wonderful ride for anyone who enjoys scenic miles, good company, and a route that feels like a mini‑escape into the forest. If you’ve been wanting to explore more of the Clackamas River Corridor, this is your perfect chance.

We’ll roll out from PGE's West Side Hydro Project (see helpful notes about the Start Location below), enjoy a 5-mile warmup on E Faraday Road that is closed to cars, and then follow Hwy 224 as it winds along the river. The shoulder is good, the grades are gentle, and the traffic is light — especially on weekdays in the mornings. We'll pass the Ripplebrook Camp Store at about Mile 24 on the way up, stopping briefly, and again at Mile 37 on the way down for a longer rest stop — and the store will be open. The turnaround point where we'll take a breath is Switch Creek, which is exactly where we'll switch gears (literally) from steady climbing and "Look at that waterfall!" to rolling back down and "Let’s go find coffee." We'll finish up with a relaxing coffee break at the end of the ride at The Grind Coffee House, 105 OR-224, Estacada, OR 97023.

Variations: You'll have the option to ride with me as a group (we'll re‑group at key points) and must be able to maintain a minimum cruising speed of 13 MPH on flat or gentle hill terrain. Riders slower than 13 MPH on Level A terrain and faster riders are welcome to participate non‑group and ride at their own pace. This is an out-and-back route, so you can also choose the length of your ride to make it as short or as long as you like. Turning around at the Ripplebrook Camp Store is a 50-mile ride. Continuing past Switch Creek to Detroit Lake is about 82 miles.