Adventure Cycling’s new ~330-mile Klamath Mountains Loop may snake through the remote and idyllic mountains, watersheds, and ranchland for which this region of Cascadia is celebrated, but that just makes the towns, restaurants, and quirky local institutions you do pass all the more special. To celebrate the route’s official launch on December 16, 2025, we rounded up a few of our route researcher’s favorite stops.
Seiad Valley Cafe
Seiad Valley, California
Ok, you’ll have to share this breakfast spot just off the Klamath River in unincorporated Seiad Valley with hikers during the summer (it’s close to the mid-way point along the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail), but it’s worth it just to watch hungry hikers try and tackle the infamous Pancake Challenge. Or tackle it yourself; if you can eat the ten plate-sized flapjacks in two hours or less, it’s free. If not, it’s $30.
The Beer Tree
Forks of the Salmon, California
One you reach the village (and even that might be too strong a word), you’ll find a picnic table under the shade of a walnut tree, where it’s long been customary for locals and travelers alike to enjoy some conversation over a cold one or two. While there doesn’t appear to be an official address for the spot or much of an online presence, even on social media, that’s all part of the charm.
Eddy Gulch Lookout
Klamath Peak, California
Located atop 6,483-foot Klamath Peak, this staffed fire lookout in the Klamath National Forest’s Salmon/Scott River Ranger District has been on the National Historic Lookout Register since 1995. While the current tower was built in 1958, it’s located on the site of a log cabin lookout built in 1913 that housed the first female fire observer hired by the U.S. Forest Service.
The Callahan Emporium
Callahan, California
Located in an 1800’s boarding house, today the Callahan Emporium is a great place to restock supplies, chow down at the deli, sip on a pint of local craft beer, and listen to nightly live music all in the same place. And if you time your stop for Friday or Saturday between 4 PM and 7 PM, you can enjoy one of its iconic 1-pound ribeye steak dinners.
Etna Creek Outfitters
Etna, California
Remote Etna is another beloved stop for PCT hikers thanks to its restaurants, motels and campsites, and friendly locals who are eager to help hikers, whether it’s a hitch into town or a spot in their yard to camp. That spirit is embodied in Main Street’s family-owned Etna Creek Outfitters. While it mostly caters to those hoofing it on foot, the shop is still a great stop for cyclists in need of snacks, energy gels, freeze-dried meals, stove fuel, and more.
Ruby’s Neighborhood Restaurant
Ashland, Oregon
Begin and end your loop at Ruby’s, beloved cafe in a tiny, vibrant, converted bungalow on North Pioneer Street, and you won’t be disappointed no matter when you roll up. In the mornings, its breakfast burrito — which includes ham, bacon, and sausage — is a star, and lunch is all about the burgers. Ruby’s also shares a patio with Gils, a bar and bottle shop with beer, wine, and sandwiches, and both businesses jointly host tons of live shows in the evenings.
The post 6 of Our Route Researcher’s Favorite Spots Along the New Klamath Mountains Loop appeared first on Adventure Cycling Association.
