Trails are Pavement and Dirt (10.0 mi. single track, 13.5 mi. pavement). This is a challenging ride for a beginner who should be in good shape and prepared to ride over some rough rocks. The scenery is beautiful as the trail winds its way through forests of lodgepole pine. The described route returns along the highway but you can return the way you came if you choose.
Mileposts
0.0 - Sparks Lake Trail trailhead. Start out on the Sparks Lake trail.
2.0 - Go Straight at junction with Metolius-Windigo Horse Trail.
2.2 - Side trail on right to shore of Sparks Lake.
4.9 - Junction with Quinn Creek trail. Bear left to continue the route.
10.0 - At the south end of Lava Lake, near the boat ramp, you can either retrace your route back or follow the highway back to Sparks Lake by riding out the Lava Lake resort access road to Hwy 46, turn left and ride 12.5 miles back to the Sparks Lake trailhead.
23.5 - Back at Sparks Lake Trail Trailhead.
More of a wilderness adventure than most of the Bend area trails on the other side of Mt. Bachelor. Devoid of any man made features it nevertheless provides plenty of challenges. Early on there is plenty of short steep climbs and descents over rocks and roots. The trail requires ones attention throughout the ride as it is a narrow trail through the forest where vegetation crowds you along the way. There isn't a section where you can rip along but I smiled the entire trip; despite the amount of fallen trees across the trail. Lots of mountainous veiws through the forest. The 1.5 lakeshore trail around Lava Lake is scenic but full of rocky sections. Can be ridden as a shuttle, OAB, or loop if you return along the highway.
| ThankI'm giving Sparks Lake Trail 4 stars simply for the view. While its listed as a loop, it can be ridden as an out and back making it as long or as short as you prefer. There really isn't much technical about the ride. Mostly rolling hills with a few lava flows to work your way through and around. There are some lake access spur trails that make great lunch stops. Make sure and stop occasionally to look around and soak in the view. South Sister is just off to the north and is pretty spectacular. Nothing too difficult, just fun and beautiful!
| Thank