The William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge (map) makes our list of cycling wonders for three reasons: low-traffic gravel roads, open spaces and wonderful wildlife.
If you typically ride on skinny road bike tires, borrow or rent a bike with fatter tires and head south from Corvallis about 14 miles on Highway 99. Turn right on Finley Road and follow the gravel road for about a mile. A left turn on Finley Refuge Road at the wildlife refuge sign will lead you to a parking area, information kiosk and a hiking trailhead.
Park your vehicle, pump up your bikes tires, grab your water bottle and get rolling. Have a camera ready in case you come across some of the local residents.
(Photo: Dan Shryock)
Finley Refuge Road is a 3-mile stretch that extends west, then south before turning west once more and ending on Bellfountain Road at the refuge’s edge. It’s flat for the first mile before climbing a mere 100 feet in the second mile and 200 feet more in the third mile. There are other roads within the wildlife area that add another 4-plus miles of available gravel. These also require limited uphill pedaling.
As always, be sure you have a map. Here’s the official road and trail map.
Now that you’re ready to ride, you should know that the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and was created to protect winter habitat the dusky Canada goose. Find out more about the dusky Canada goose and other wildlife at Finley National Wildlife Refuge here.
While you’re visiting their winter home, please know the rules and regulations and plan ahead by reading the refuge’s list of visitor activities.
Article by Dan Shryock. Featured photo by Lainey Morse. Keep up with Corvallis news, events and happenings by signing up for our email newsletter.
