Vineyard Tour
Do you have plans for Labor Day weekend? The 2021 Vineyard Tour will be rolling on Sunday, September 5th. This event offers something for everyone with ride distances of 16, 30, 50, 66 (Metric), and 100 miles. Over the years, the routes have changed. We have new routes for 2021. Our current plan is to rotate our route selections each year. The thinking behind this is that the Umpqua Valley has so much to offer, and we want to expose riders to more and more of it. This is an area that people should come to ride for more than one day. Why not try a long weekend or even a week?
The rides start and finish in the beautiful Discovery Garden at River Forks Park, just a few miles northwest of Roseburg. The routes will pass multiple vineyards, and two of them will host rest stops. Rest stops will be hosted by Henry Estate Winery in Umpqua and Triple Oak Vineyard’s Wine Vault in Oakland. Riders that take on rides of 50 or more miles will get to experience both winery-hosted rest stops. The Century ride will stop in Oakland twice. ✎
Another local feature that will be included this year is the Rochester Bridge (covered), just outside of Oakland. Riders on the 50 or Metric routes will pass through the bridge twice. For those on the Century, you will have three trips over the bridge, so you should be able to get that perfect photo!
Another local feature that will be included this year is the Rochester Bridge (covered), just outside of Oakland. Riders on the 50 or Metric routes will pass through the bridge twice. For those on the Century, you will have three trips over the bridge, so you should be able to get that perfect photo!
The routes for this year have been carefully chosen to find quiet roads with little traffic. While not flat, the routes are only moderately hilly, which accurately showcases the typical terrain in the Umpqua area. You will cycle along rivers, creeks, lakes, and ponds on your journey. You are also likely to see some wildlife along the route. You might see an occasional deer or two, but if you look up you are certain to see several ospreys, especially around Umpqua. If you are on the Century, you will most certainly hear some peacocks, and possibly see them as well.
After you have completed your adventure, you can go explore the local area. Maybe you want to try a winery or two? You could also try one of Roseburg’s many micro brews. We will also be able to point you towards a good place to eat so you can refuel after your effort.
Those of us who live here know how spoiled we are with so many miles of great places to cycle. This is a great opportunity for us to share this area with others. We are sure you will enjoy yourself and will want to come back for more in the future!
Paul Whitworth, Umpqua Velo Club
NOTE: This ride is approved for club mileage, and the registration price is discounted for multiple riders and tandem riders. Contact PBC ride leader Lynn Thompson Blanchard at [email protected] with your interest in this ride to register together with other PBC participants. Click here to see the Vineyard Tour on the ride calendar.