Thinking of relocating
Submitted by hedgehog on Sat, 01/30/2010 - 4:52pm.
Hello everyone, I am currently living in Flagstaff, Az. I was thinking of relocating to Portland, and was wondering where to start. I would love to know where the good trails are, if there are areas where you can live cheap and ride from your door. I ride downhill and xc and being close is important. I need to find a place and a job so all this would figure in to where I end up of course. I may be spoiled here and do not realize it, but the economy here is small and it is crazy expensive. Also are there any ski resorts nearby that have biking in the summer? and how far away are they? I really know nothing of the area so anything helps, I have been trying to do research online and would appreciate any feedback.
Your Spoiled and don't realize it
Oh good lord. What a loaded bunch of questions. "Nothing to see here. Move along."
You will not find anything of any consequence to ride within the city. There may be some teaser stuff in the near future, but the good stuff is at least an hour's drive*. Portland is a great city for bicycling, but not of the strictly off-road variety.
Make that hour drive* though (during the right season) and the good stuff is as good as it is anywhere, including iconic freeride locales as Post Canyon and Black Rock
There are ski resorts nearby (an hour's drive*), but they are better suited for skiiing than biking. You will be that much closer to Whistler though, and that in itself might be worth it. And there is still Post Canyon and Black Rock.
As far as the economy is concerned, unless you are moving here with a job, you will find the economy to suck.
If you got a job, you will find a vibrant and creative community with the freshest food and beer you can get anywhere. You will also find an organization (NWTA) motivated and concerned with building the cycling community and furthering ride opportunities within the city as well as the on-going commitment to maintain and develop trails in the region for off-road cycing.
Of course there is also a preponderance of roadies and wineries, if that's more your style.
*Drive times vary by location within the Portland Metro area.
Welcome!
You have come to the right group if you like bikes and if you like to play in the dirt.
Your best course of action is to become a member of NWTA. Then get involved in one the many activities/projects/events. NWTA has something for everyone regardless of your skills, amount of time available, and fitness level.
The group has been in growth mode for quite a while and has been doing great things for over 20 years. NWTA is about riders pooling our time, treasure, and talents to promote our sport, while having fun.
Our monthly group meetings are good, but I would suggest that you get involved with a subgroup activity (trail project or group ride). The smaller group activites will give you a better opportunity to connect with fellow members.
Welcome to Portland!