Ride the Rogue cycling event returns to Southern Oregon

Cyclists will have three ways to explore the Rogue River area this September as Ride the Rogue returns to Southern Oregon.

The annual cycling event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26, with rides beginning and ending at Palmerton Park in Rogue River.

The event also serves as a fundraiser supporting development of the Rogue River Greenway.

What routes can cyclists choose from?

Ride the Rogue offers three routes designed for different experience levels, from recreational cyclists to riders looking for a longer day on the road.

The options include a 20-mile ride, a 40-mile ride, and a metric century, or around 62 miles. All three begin and end at Palmerton Park.

The 20-mile route travels south to Gold Hill before returning along the Rogue River. Organizers describe the route as a good option for recreational riders and families as it is mostly flat.

The 40-mile route includes two rest stops, while the metric century includes three. This year’s longer routes travel south through the Rogue Valley and include portions of the greenway along the Rogue River.

When do the rides start?

Start times vary by route.

The metric century begins at 8 a.m., followed by the 40-mile ride at 9 a.m. and the 20-mile ride at 10 a.m.

Organizers ask cyclists to begin no later than 30 minutes after their route’s scheduled start time to receive full ride support.

Packet pickup will be available at Palmerton Park from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, and from 7 to 10 a.m. on event day.

Helmets are required, and riders must follow applicable traffic laws. Rest stops, refreshments, mechanical assistance, and support vehicles will be available along the routes.

What happens after the ride?

The event continues at Palmerton Park after cyclists finish their routes.

Participants can purchase a hot meal, and the post-ride gathering will include a silent auction and a no-host beer garden.

Ride the Rogue is the Rogue River Greenway Foundation’s main annual fundraiser. Proceeds help support continued work on the Rogue River Greenway, including providing matching funds for grants and pursuing additional funding for the trail.

The greenway gives cyclists and other users another way to experience communities and landscapes along the Rogue River in Southern Oregon.

How much does Ride the Rogue cost?

Registration for Ride the Rogue costs $50 per rider, with the same price for the 20-mile, 40-mile, and metric century routes.

Registration fees support the Rogue River Greenway Foundation and its work to develop and maintain the Rogue River Greenway.