Nickie Bournias, Author at Seaside Oregon

Just a short drive from Seaside, the scent of damp earth and salt air lingers as you adjust your helmet and clip into your pedals. Towering Sitka spruce and pine cast shifting shadows on the packed dirt. Ahead, the trail bends into a perfect arc, banked just right to carry your momentum as you carve through the lush, coastal forest. Welcome to Klootchy Creek — a growing mountain biking network less than 10 miles from your base camp in town — where beginner-friendly loops and adrenaline-pumping descents weave through Oregon’s coastal mountains.

A Trail for Every Rider

Less than 10 miles from downtown Seaside, the Klootchy Creek County Park trails off Highway 26 have become a must-ride destination on the North Coast. The growing system, developed with the help of local trail builders and the Northwest Trail Alliance, features a mix of flowy descents, technical single-track and skills-building features that make it a destination for all levels.

For beginners and those looking for a warm-up, start at the main parking area and climb up the easy switchbacks of GreenWood to connect to the logging road before starting your descent on Chris Cross — a smooth and flowy green-rated trail that gives a good taste for what Klootchy has to offer. Sticky Buns and Party Wave cater to intermediate riders, featuring a mix of smooth berms, optional jumps and playful lines through moss-laden trees. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Defibrillator and Passive Aggressive trails serve up drops, small gap jumps and steeper terrain that challenge the more seasoned rider.

One of the newest trail systems in the state, Klootchy Creek continues to expand and has several more trails penned for development this year. It should also be noted that recent logging activity has impacted some of the network’s advanced trails, including the popular Evil Twin route, which will later be rebuilt, according to the alliance.

*Saltline Hotel (Photo by Judiaann Woo)*

Eat, Play, Stay in Seaside

For your mountain biking weekend, settle in to Seaside for the perfect spot to refuel, unwind and soak up the coastal vibe — whether that means grabbing a post-ride pint, stretching your legs along the promenade or settling in for a welcoming night’s stay.

Eat: Grab your post-ride meal at one of Seaside’s Mexican restaurants, including The Stand — a family-owned, no-frills Mexican eatery known for its tacos and burritos, ideal for replenishing those calories you burned. If you’re craving a post-ride pint, head to Seaside Brewery, housed in a historic city jail, where the slow-smoked prime-brisket sandwich and house-brewed IPA make the perfect pairing.

Play: Give your legs a break with a leisurely beach walk along the promenade, or rent a cruiser bike from Wheel Fun Rentals to explore the wide, sandy shores of Seaside. If you’re still craving adventure, head to High Life Adventure Park’s Aerial Challenge Course, a thrilling aerial rope and obstacle course featuring over 50 challenge elements 20 to 40 feet above ground.

Stay: For chill vibes and a fun atmosphere, check in to the Saltline Hotel, mere blocks from the beach. Modern amenities coupled with a cozy hot tub help soothe post-ride muscles and make it a good option for riders. If you’re looking for something closer to nature, Thousand Trails Seaside offers wooded campsites on the north side of town with easy access to both trails and the beach, as well as an indoor pool and games like pickleball, tennis and horseshoes.

Plan Your Ride

Before hitting the trails at Klootchy Creek, stop in Seaside to gear up and get advice. A’s Bike Shop is the go-to spot for riders needing rentals, service or trail tips before heading out. They offer mountain bike and fat-tire bike rentals, along with a full-service repair shop to handle any last-minute tune-ups. Knowledgeable staff can provide insights on the best trails for your skill level and current conditions at Klootchy Creek.

Riders should also note that a free permit is required to access Klootchy Creek Park. It can be easily obtained online before your ride.

Klootchy mountain biking photo by Jeremy Burke / OCVA

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