Although this loop ride may be started from several places, it is described from the corner of Oak and First, next to the Post Office in Oakridge.
Head north on Oak Street, follow it to the right until you reach West Oak Road. Go straight. West Oak takes you to High Prairie Road 1928. In about 2.4 miles you will come to McFarland Road junction. A left on McFarland will take you to Westfir or Oakridge. Go straight on High Prairie Road. About 6 miles from the start, grind up Dead Mountain Road 210. The section of Road 210 that meets Road 1928 is not on the latest National Forest map, but does show on the "blue line map". Although the gravel on Road 210 starts out in fairly good shape, it becomes rather rough as you puff your way up the hill. Stay on the "main drag" about 6.5 miles and stay left when you come to Road 118.
At 7.6 miles, go right on Road 190 past an old dead car. After the car stay right on Road 190 at the junction with Road 194. At about 100 yards, you should see the Flat Creek trailhead. During the wet season, this trail can be muddy, so be cautious and conscientious of further trail damage. As you will see, others have been less than environmentally sensitive.
Flat Creek Trail is 2.5 miles of single-track downhill. At 9.5 miles into the ride, there is a dry, rocky meadow full of poison oak: not a wise choice for lunch. Turn right when you reach Road 2404. Pass Road 211 junction and head down to Salmon Creek Road. Go west on Salmon Creek back to Oakridge.
Dave Linsdell
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