Whiskey Run Trails: Mountain Biking on the Southern Oregon Coast

The Whiskey Run Trail System in Coos County is the first purpose-built mountain biking network on the Southern Oregon Coast. Developed through a partnership between Wild Rivers Coast Alliance, Coos County Commissioners and County Foresters, Travel Oregon, and other agencies, the trails were designed to make the Coos County Forest a recreation destination while remaining part of an active working forest.

Building the System

Construction was carried out by Ptarmigan Ptrails, LLC, a professional trail-building company with experience across the Pacific Northwest. Grants and funding came from groups including Wild Rivers Coast Alliance, Travel Oregon, and the Wild Rivers Coast Mountain Biking Association. The result is a growing network of professionally built trails with a planned total of 30 miles.

Riding Experience

Whiskey Run offers a mix of cross-country and flow-style trails suited to all levels of riders. The system includes:

  • Beginner areas at The Snag, designed for families and kids on Strider-style bikes.

  • Intermediate flow trails such as Hollerback, Dirty Dishes, and White Lightning.

  • Advanced routes, including enduro-style lines on the Volstead side, as well as double-black hand-built fall-line trails and jump lines.

Each trail is clearly signed for difficulty, and riders are advised to stay within their ability and respect closures caused by weather or forest operations.

Access and Facilities

Whiskey Run is located between Coos Bay and Bandon, just inland from Highway 101. The system has three main parking areas:

  • The Snag (southern access)

  • The Main Lot, which includes pit toilets, picnic tables, a bike corral, repair station, and benches

  • The Upper Parking Area off W. Beaver Hill Road, which provides direct access for shuttling top-to-bottom runs

The trails are open to e-bikes, and shuttle runs are common for groups looking to maximize downhill time.

Riding Season

The Coast Range climate means wet conditions through much of the winter and spring. Peak riding season runs from late spring through early fall, but short dry stretches in the off-season can also create favorable conditions.

Community and Maintenance

The system is maintained entirely by the Wild Coast Trails Association, a local mountain bike club. Riders who enjoy the trails are encouraged to contribute to ongoing maintenance through the Trail Karma donation platform.

A New Coastal Recreation Destination

Whiskey Run adds a new dimension to recreation on the Southern Oregon Coast. While the region has long been known for its beaches, fishing, and golf, it now offers a professionally built mountain biking destination just minutes from the ocean. The tight trail network allows for short rides or all-day sessions, making it accessible to both visiting riders and local enthusiasts.

Getting There from Bandon

From Bandon, head north on Highway 101 for about 10 miles. Turn left onto Seven Devils Road and continue for roughly 3 miles. From there, turn right onto Whiskey Run Road, which leads directly to the lower trailhead and parking area. For access to the upper shuttle lot, continue north on Highway 101 and turn right on West Beaver Hill Road, following signs to the Upper Parking Area.

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