The best gravel rides around Washington

Washington offers a wide array of gravel biking opportunities, with over 60 routes documented on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging adventures with significant elevation gains.

Washington's diverse geography provides a rich variety of gravel biking terrain. You'll encounter everything from smooth, converted rail trails and extensive forest roads, particularly in areas like Capitol State Forest, to mixed-terrain paths that traverse mountain ranges and river valleys. Some routes, especially in the North Cascades, can offer more rugged 'adventure gravel' experiences with challenging climbs and descents.

Yes, Washington has several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For instance, the Bramber Castle and High Street – Downs Link at Botolphs loop from Steyning is an easy 10.1-mile path with gentle gradients. Many converted rail trails, like sections of the Palouse to Cascades Trail, also offer accessible and scenic rides.

Among the most popular routes is the Downs Link along the River Adur – View of Shoreham Estuary loop from Steyning, a 23.0-mile trail featuring moderate climbs and scenic river views. Another favorite is the South Downs Way Trail – Downs Link along the River Adur loop from Findon, which leads through river valleys and open countryside.

Washington offers year-round gravel biking opportunities due to its diverse climate. While summer is ideal for exploring alpine regions and higher elevations, spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery in forests and river valleys. Winter can be suitable for lower-elevation routes, though some areas, especially in the mountains, may experience snow and require specific gear or route planning.

Absolutely! Many routes in Washington pass by or are close to interesting historical sites and natural monuments. For example, the area features highlights like the Chanctonbury Ring hillfort and Cissbury Ring Hill Fort. You can also find routes near Bramber Castle Ruins, offering a blend of outdoor activity and historical exploration.

Yes, Washington has several excellent loop gravel bike trails. Routes like the Downs Link along the River Adur – View of Shoreham Estuary loop from Steyning and the Bramber Castle and High Street – Downs Link at Botolphs loop from Steyning are popular choices that allow you to start and finish in the same location, offering convenient exploration.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Washington, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 38 reviews. Riders often praise the state's incredibly diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to snow-capped mountains, and the extensive network of forest roads and converted rail trails that provide endless scenic backdrops and varied riding conditions.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Washington offers advanced gravel routes, particularly in mountainous regions. The North Cascades, for instance, provide 'Adventure Gravel' experiences on remote forest roads with brutal climbs and tough descents, blurring the line between gravel and mountain biking. The Keechelus-Kachess gravel loop is also noted for its steep climbs and rough descents.

Many gravel trails in Washington offer stunning scenic views. The Palouse to Cascades Trail, especially sections like the Rock Lake area, is renowned for its beauty. Routes in the Olympic Peninsula, with their high arched bridges and secluded roads, also provide picturesque vistas. Riders are consistently treated to breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, forests, and coastlines across the state.

Near Seattle, you can find a variety of gravel biking options. These include urban gravel routes in West Seattle and Ballard, or more adventurous rides venturing towards Bellevue, Snoqualmie, and Bainbridge Island. Specific routes like the 'Thrilla in Woodinvilla' and those incorporating areas like Ravenna, Husky Stadium, Magnuson Park, Mathews Beach, Carkeek Park, and Golden Gardens offer diverse terrains close to the city.

The Palouse to Cascades Trail is a significant highlight for gravel bikers in Washington. This extensive trail offers a mix of paved and gravel paths, stretching from Cedar Falls to the Columbia River. Sections like the one from Rattlesnake Lake to Snoqualmie Pass are popular for their accessibility and scenic beauty, though some parts can be very challenging, especially with snow in winter. The Rock Lake section is particularly scenic.

Yes, several routes combine natural beauty with historical interest. For example, the Downs Link along the River Adur – Shoreham Old Toll Bridge loop from Findon offers scenic river views alongside historical landmarks. The Olympic Bridges routes on the Olympic Peninsula also connect high arched bridges with smooth gravel roads, providing a unique blend of engineering marvels and natural landscapes.