Mima Falls and McKenny Trail Loop

The Komoot route for the Mima Falls and McKenny Trail Loop is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete by mountain bike. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Mima Falls and McKenny Trail Loop is generally considered a moderate mountain bike ride, suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. While Komoot rates it as moderate, requiring good fitness, its less technical nature makes it accessible for various skill levels. There are some harsher grades, but they are often manageable for novices.

The trail features rolling hills with minimal technical obstacles, making it a cross-country oriented ride. You'll encounter singletrack, and some sections may have roots. The surface can vary from dusty when dry to mucky with firm gravel providing good traction in wet conditions. Expect a roughly 50/50 split between uphill and downhill sections.

To park at trailheads like Mima Falls or Margaret McKenny within the Capitol State Forest, you will need a Discover Pass. This pass supports the maintenance and operations of Washington's state recreation lands.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's a mixed-use trail popular with equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other trail users, especially horses.

The loop offers diverse scenery, winding through open fields, second-growth fir forests, and areas with old bigleaf maples. A prominent highlight is Mima Falls, a picturesque 25-foot waterfall. You'll also see mossy vine maple arches, streams, and ponds, with varied vistas including old-growth and clear-cut sections.

The trail can be ridden year-round, but conditions vary. It can be dusty when dry and mucky when wet, though firm gravel often provides good traction. For the most pleasant experience, consider visiting during spring or fall when temperatures are milder and the forest is vibrant. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You'll ride along parts of the Mima Falls West, McKenny, D-4600, D-4630, Mima Falls Tie, MnM Trail, Lost Valley, Campground, Mima Falls East, and Equine Loop trails, among others, as you complete the loop.

While not overly technical, a common consideration for mountain bikers on this mixed-use trail is navigating around horse droppings. Always be aware of other users, including hikers and equestrians, and practice trail etiquette.

Yes, the Mima Falls and McKenny Trail Loop is often described as suitable for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers and can be family-friendly. Its less technical nature and rolling hills make it accessible, though some sections with harsher grades may offer a mild challenge for novices.

The trail is located within Capitol State Forest, which is a natural area. While there are no cafes, pubs, or dedicated accommodations directly at the trailhead, you can find such services in nearby towns outside the forest.