It's a nice ride through an area that's a transition zone between northern and southern ecosystems. Bicyclists take over a forest road. Not in the Gorge but off the highway, the Sheltowe Trace from Highway 192 to Laurel Lake dam makes a terrific trip. It's an easy-rolling nine miles one way. Part of it runs along the lake always a relaxing proposition.
Riders normally go across the dam and then ride the road back.
Be especially careful while on the part of it that goes through the Holly Bay Campground don't want to run into any preoccupied anglers or playing children. Ned Branch Trail and Lakeside South Loop are superior off-road experiences. Combined with the Twin Branch Trail , they make a nifty 7 mile loop. Most people walk the Twin Branch part. This ride is mostly through forest, with some stretches near the cliffline.