Mountain Biking in Washington
Washington state is a mountain biker's paradise, with rails and terrain of all kinds. You’ll find technical singletrack in the forests and fast and flowy trails in the desert.
One of the most popular destinations for mountain biking in Washington is the Capital Forest, located just south of Olympia. This area features over 60,000 acres of forest land and over 50 miles of singletrack trails open to mountain biking. The trails range from easy and beginner-friendly to challenging and technical.
Another popular mountain biking destination in Washington is the Duthie Hill Park, located in the city of Issaquah. This park features over 20 miles of singletrack trails, many of which have been specifically designed for mountain biking. The park is known for its technical challenges and fast descents, but there are trails for all levels of riders.
The Leavenworth area in central Washington is also a top destination for mountain biking. It’s known for its stunning scenery and incredible singletrack trails that wind through the forest and along the Wenatchee River. Leavenworth is also home to several bike-specific campsites, making it a great place for multi-day rides.
In Eastern Washington, the desert region around Ellensburg is a must for mountain bikers. This area is known for its fast, flowy trails and incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Several trails cater to all skill levels, beginner-friendly to more technical and challenging.
Anywhere you choose to ride in Washington, you’ll have a fantastic time! Home to a thriving mountain biking community, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet other riders, join organized rides, and explore new trails. With so much to offer, it's no wonder that Washington is one of the top mountain biking destinations in the country.
*Apres-trail is an important part of the mountain bike scene. You’ll have no trouble finding the bars.
Where to find trail conditions & regulations for trails in Washington State:
Washington Trails Association (WTA): maintains an extensive database of trails throughout the state. Their website provides up-to-date information on trail conditions, trip reports from other hikers, and trail descriptions. They also offer trail maintenance alerts and volunteer opportunities. Website: WTA.org
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission: provides information on state parks and trails, including trail maps, current conditions, and any regulations specific to each park or trail. Website: Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission
U.S. Forest Service: many trails are located within national forests managed by the U.S. Forest Service, such as the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service website offers detailed information on trails, including current conditions, regulations, permits, and alerts. Website: U.S. Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Region
Local Trail Organizations: often maintain websites or social media pages where they provide updates on trail conditions, maintenance schedules, and trail specific regulations.
Trail Apps and Websites: various apps and websites dedicated to outdoor recreation provide user-generated content, including trail conditions, reviews, and photos. Examples include AllTrails.com, Trailforks.com, and the HikingProject.com
Visitor Centers and Ranger Stations: visitor centers and ranger stations located near popular trailheads in Washington often have current information on trail conditions, regulations, and safety tips. Rangers and staff members can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
Make use of the comprehensive information available on trail conditions and regulations for trails in Washington State. You’ll be safer and have more fun. Enjoy!
