The best gravel rides in Palouse To Cascades State Park
4.9
(16)
339
riders
30
rides
Gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park offers an extensive journey across Washington State, following a former railroad grade. The trail features a generally gentle incline, making it accessible for various skill levels. Surfaces range from light to hard-packed gravel, with some sections containing looser gravel. The diverse landscape transitions from forested Cascades in the west to central farmlands and arid scrublands further east.
Best gravel bike trails in Palouse To Cascades State Park
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Rattlesnake Lake – Hall Creek Trestle loop from Wilderness Rim, a 15.4 miles (24.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 37 minutes to complete, featuring a notable trestle crossing.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from McClellan Butte Trailhead, a moderate 24.8 miles (40.0 km) path. This route includes the historic Snoqualmie Tunnel and offers views of the surrounding forested mountains.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Rattlesnake Lake – Snoqualmie Valley Trail loop from Wilderness Rim, a 18.3 miles (29.5 km) trail leading through forested areas and along the Snoqualmie Valley Trail, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park is defined by forested Cascades, arid scrublands, and historic rail-era features like trestles and tunnels. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Palouse To Cascades State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 300 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Palouse To Cascades State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 7, 2026
25
riders
24.1km
01:33
360m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
40.0km
02:25
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
24
riders
21.6km
01:11
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
52.2km
03:28
940m
940m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
93.8km
05:02
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is a long gravel route across Washington, great for bikepacking or long rides. The Snoqualmie Tunnel is a must—dark, damp, and fun (bring lights). Expect wind and remote stretches, so pack water and gear. Riding over trestles and through changing landscapes keeps things interesting the whole way.
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The Hall Creek Trestle is a historic steel and timber railway bridge built in 1912. It was once the old Milwaukee Road until, in 1988, a storm washed away a central 171-foot section of the bridge. In the 1990s, Washington State Parks restored the trestle, reconnecting the east and west segments of the former rail line, which is now part of the Palouse to Cascades (Iron Horse) Trail. The views down into Hall Creek Valley are genuinely stunning and worth the ride!
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Great views from here. And... the middle of the trestle is different than either end because it had collapsed and was rebuilt in the late 90's
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It's much longer than that. This is my favorite long distance bike trail in Washington, almost 290 miles. You can start at Rattlesnake Lake near North Bend and ride all the way to Idaho - or vice versa. Most of the trail is still on the old railroad bed (with a few detours), so it's beautiful and remote. Make sure you check the Washington State Parks website for maps, directions, advice and to register to go on the trail. It's free but mandatory if you are going east of the Columbia River. And... it's a bucket list item.
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I love that huge rocky boulder field to the West side. Covered in green moss, especially in the Spring. You don't see it going up, but you really do see it coming down!
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I am always amazed how different this lake looks in the spring (full) versus the fall (almost empty). Those "Seals" are visible in the fall but then go for a long swim in the winter and spring...
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The State Park is on the West shore of Lake Easton - very nice campground. An excellent overnight spot in the Spring/Summer/Fall when doing the Palouse to Cascades trail. Worth looping around the lake to see it from all sides and experience the tunnel and bridges. Decent provisions available in town.
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This is a bucket list item and crowning point for a daytrip up and back from Rattlesnake Lake. The 18-mile ride up to the Pass is relatively easy railroad grade and doable, even if you don't think you can get up here. But the highlight is then going through the tunnel to a completely different world on the other side. Definitely bring a jacket (it's maybe 45 degrees in there?) and absolutely deck your bike in the brightest lights you can find. The drip, drip, drip of water and murmurs of other people will follow you throughout the 2.3 mile tunnel. There is a very nice rest area in Hyak on the East side of the tunnel - lots of water, a bike repair stand and tools, and a nice spot for a picnic before you turn around and zoom down the trail in a third of the time it took to come up. Or you can continue on to the East if you want!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
There are over 30 gravel bike routes available in Palouse To Cascades State Park, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to explore.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
The trail generally features a gentle and easy-to-negotiate incline, making it accessible for cyclists of varying skill levels. Out of the 31 routes, 3 are considered easy, 13 moderate, and 15 difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Are there any sections of the trail that are more challenging or require specific bike types?
While much of the surface is light or hard-packed gravel, ideal for gravel bikes, some sections feature looser gravel or even sand, particularly within the U.S. Army Yakima Training Center. For these parts, mountain bikes with suspension or fat tires might be more suitable.
When is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
The best time to visit is generally from late spring through fall. It's important to note that the Snoqualmie Tunnel, a major highlight, is closed annually from November 1st to May 1st due to potential ice hazards, which affects the western section of the trail.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the gravel bike trails?
The trail is rich with historical and natural features. You can cycle through the 2.3-mile-long Snoqualmie Tunnel (when open), cross impressive structures like the Hall Creek Trestle, and experience the rehabilitated Beverly Bridge spanning the Columbia River. Other points of interest include Lake Easton State Park and the unique "The Seals".
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
Yes, the generally gentle incline of the former railroad grade makes many sections suitable for families. Routes like the Rattlesnake Lake – Rattlesnake Lake loop from Wilderness Rim offer a moderate experience that can be enjoyed by various skill levels.
Are dogs allowed on the Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail, but they must be on a leash. Always ensure you clean up after your pet and respect other trail users.
What kind of parking and permits are required for gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
Many trailheads require a Discover Pass for parking. It's advisable to check the official Washington State Parks website for specific requirements and any temporary closures or gate access codes, especially for more remote eastern sections. You can find more information on the official state park website: Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the park?
Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak provides a moderate 25.5 km ride that allows you to experience the area without needing a shuttle.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Palouse To Cascades State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from forested Cascades to arid scrublands, and the unique historical rail-era features like trestles and tunnels. The accessibility for various skill levels is also frequently highlighted.
Are there camping opportunities along the Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail?
Yes, especially in the western and central sections of the trail, state parks like Lake Easton State Park offer campsites for overnight stays. Planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Is there a route that includes both Rattlesnake Lake and the Snoqualmie Valley Trail?
Yes, the Rattlesnake Lake – Snoqualmie Valley Trail loop from Wilderness Rim is a popular 29.5 km route that leads through forested areas and along the scenic Snoqualmie Valley Trail.
What is the Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail's connection to the Great American Rail-Trail?
The Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail is a significant component of the ambitious Great American Rail-Trail, a developing cross-country trail network. This connection highlights its importance as a long-distance, non-motorized pathway.
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