Anyone who has spent any time in the Central Oregon region knows that cycling is a big part of the culture here. In fact, last weekend found hundreds of cyclists racing around the area for the famous Cascade Cycling Classic. Jefferson County and Madras are no different - according to an article in today's
daily paper the sport is being championed by bike enthusiasts who are vying for a "Madras Mountain View Scenic Bikeway." We say YAY!
According to the article, the proposed 29-mile loop - which would be the state's 10th scenic bikeway - would run through Metolius, Culver and along the rim of Lake Billy Chinook. On the way back, cyclists would pass by Round Butte back to Madras. Some of our region's treasures lie in this area and seeing them by bike is extra-amazing. In fact, the route is already popular with cyclists "in the know" but the designation of a Scenic Bikeway would bring in more people.
Proponents hope that the new bikeway would bring in tourism dollars to the county, interest people traveling from Portland to Bend and also encourage locals to become more active.
As one of the host locations of the MAC Dash since its inception, it's no secret that we love being active at the Madras neighborhood of Yarrow. We are watching this story closely and hope the Scenic Bikeway is approved soon by the State Parks Commission, which could take 6-12 months to make a decision.
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