Rufus Creek Trail – Evolution Trail loop from Sudden Valley
Rufus Creek Trail – Evolution Trail loop from Sudden Valley
3.2
(2)
37
riders
Rufus Creek Trail – Evolution Trail loop from Sudden Valley
02:46
23.9km
830m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 8, 2026
Tips
Includes very steep uphill segments
You may need to push your bike.
After 3.67 km for 820 m
After 9.46 km for 770 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
1.60 km
Rufus Creek Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
5.38 km
View of the Cascades from Rufus Creek Trail
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
14.3 km
Evolution Trail
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
Tip by
23.9 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.8 km
4.52 km
1.43 km
122 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
17.8 km
3.74 km
1.43 km
861 m
135 m
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Elevation
Highest point (530 m)
Lowest point (140 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
18°C
9°C
62 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're an experienced mountain biker looking for a challenging technical descent after a solid climb, the Rufus Creek Trail – Evolution Trail loop from Sudden Valley delivers. This difficult mountain biking route spans 14.9 miles (23.9 km), features a substantial 2729 feet (832 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete. It's a prime choice for riders ready to tackle advanced features within the Galbraith Mountain network.
What to expect on Rufus Creek Trail – Evolution Trail loop from Sudden Valley
The journey begins with a steady ascent on the Rufus Creek Trail, winding through diverse Pacific Northwest forests. You'll pedal past alders and deciduous trees, gradually transitioning into older evergreen stands, with glimpses of sandstone cliffs higher up. Keep an eye out for the Lake Whatcom Overlook, which offers views of snow-capped Mount Baker in the distance. While Rufus Creek provides a moderate pedal, it does include some undulating sections and tougher switchbacks. The real thrill comes on the Evolution Trail, a downhill-only, Black Diamond rated singletrack. Prepare for a sophisticated blend of jumps, ladders, and drops, including the notable long log ride called "the Stinger," small trail-drops, tabletops, and an off-camber sandstone slab. This section requires advanced riding skills and careful navigation.
Planning your visit
Access to this loop is from the Sudden Valley side of the Galbraith Mountain network. Given the technical nature of the Evolution Trail, ensure your bike and skills are up to the task. Remember that the Rufus Creek Trail is multi-use and two-way, so be aware of other traffic, especially on the lower sections. You will need to check for Galbraith Mountain mountain biking permit requirements for individual riders before heading out, as permits are essential for riding in this area.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.9 miles (23.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 2729 feet (832 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 46 minutes
Comments
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