"Whypass Trail" is a bit of a misnomer as this is actually a system of interconnected trails that run through the forested hills on both sides of the paved BLM road the parking lot is on. Although this web of singletrack can seem a bit confusing, there is little chance of actually getting lost since virtually every rideable section of it eventually leads back to the road.
The trails here vary from narrow and unimproved to fairly wide, much improved singletrack designed specifically for MTBing. The latter of these are excellent in quality and include features such as large, well-constructed berms and jumps-things you won't find on the Forest Service trails in this area. They also differ from those trails in that they don't go anywhere. That is, there are no rivers, lakes, connectors, hinterland shelters, alpine meadows or sweeping vistas to be had. The trail is what it is: a MTB trail. But it is an excellent one.
Nowhere are the trails excessively rocky or rooty, and the majority of them are exceptionally smooth, winding and fast. There are a number of switchbacks and several fairly steep, but mostly short, climbs. Anyone riding here can expect to enjoy hours of exploration, or hours of finding and riding favorite (and exhilarating) loops. The variations are seemingly endless.
There is very little signage on the system, and no official map that depicts it in its entirety, so come prepared to explore. Also, there are no perennial water sources, so bring as much as you'll need.
Big thanks to trail builders, trail improvements to SST are awesome!
| ThankAwesome trails ranging from a couple of short DH trails to miles of timber covered trails. More and more of this trail system is being built and maintained. Wide variety of trails, lengths, and altitude. Most trails are ridden both directions, with the exception of the DH. Most trails hold up considerably well to the rain.
| ThankA decent network of trails. It seems to hold up well in the rainy seasons, and I've had a few good rides in the mud. As of later 2014, there were some dedicated DH trails under construction. Definitely worth checking out at least once.
| ThankI was pleasantly surprised to find a trail in this area with MTB-specific features. Unlike the Forest Service trails in the mountains surrounding this part of the Willamette Valley, much of this trail was built by, and specifically for, MTBers. If you come to this part of Oregon to ride, I don't think you'll be disappointed if you dedicate one day to riding this trail system if you'll be here several days. If you're local, go check it out for sure.
| ThankMy personal preference is for long, remote, rugged trails far from civilization. I enjoy the beauty of my surroundings as much as the riding itself, so this trail isn't exactly my cup of tea. It's not ugly by any means, but I've been spoiled by years of riding in the Cascade Mountains. I still give it a 4 out of 5 because of the quality of the singletrack and the MBT-specific features it possesses.