Aufderheide Drive, also known as Forest Service Road 19, is named after Robert Aufderheide, who served as the supervisor of the Willamette National Forest from 1954 until his passing in 1959. This stunning 60-mile bikeway winds through Lane County, connecting Oregon Highways 126 and 58. It follows the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers, showcasing the beauty of the Willamette National Forest.
Over a decade ago, Travel Lane County began collaborating with local advocates to promote the designation of this route as a scenic bikeway. In early 2024, they renewed efforts alongside Cycle Oregon, the U.S. Forest Service, area cycling enthusiasts, and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Together, they successfully secured approval from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission.
The Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway is now the fourth scenic bikeway in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region, joining the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway, the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, and the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway. Scenic bikeways in Oregon provide significant economic benefits, contributing to the more than $1.5 billion generated annually by Oregon's recreational cyclists.
Informational kiosks will be established at each end of the route and the official opening of the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway is scheduled for spring 2025.
"Recreational cycling generates over a billion dollars annually for Oregon's economy, and the state’s one-of-a-kind Scenic Bikeway program offers cyclists a chance to experience Oregon’s stunning beauty in every corner," said Andy Vobora, Vice President of Stakeholder Relations at Travel Lane County. "We’re honored to have a fourth Scenic Bikeway designated in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region. Our thanks go to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and all the partners who helped make this achievement a reality."
Already a designated National Scenic Byway for motorists, Aufderheide Drive takes cyclists along a route that features natural wonders, historic sites, and recreation destinations, such as Cougar Reservoir, Terwilliger Hot Springs, the old Box Canyon Guard Station, the Belknap Covered Bridge, and Constitution Grove.
The route is not maintained for snow and ice and may not be passable in winter. Visitors are advised to “know before you go” and check road and weather conditions available on the Willamette National Forest website or by calling the McKenzie River Ranger Station at (541) 822-3381.
