Washington’s Cascades & Foothills
That’s where this story takes place only because it’s where we live and ride. We’re interested in expansion, if you are as well, ping us.
Our gravel riding stacks up against any in the world, we have old rail lines that run through the deepest forests and through the most barren deserts and everything in between. We have gravel climbs into the mountains that will make you run home cryin’ to your mama.
If you live here, then you probably already know what’s up but if you are from elsewhere and gravel-curious, take a little trip with us.
Sounds good, how do I get started out there?
There are 2 main rail trails in the area, one is the SnoValley Trail (SVT) which runs about 30 miles from Duvall and Rattlesnake Lake in North Bend. At Rattlesnake Lake, the Palouse to Cascades Trail (formerly the Iron Horse Trail/ John Wayne Trail) runs east across the state.
For a nice easy-access ride, bring your gravel bike, trail bike, hybrid bike or mtb and park in the big gravel lot at King and Railroad in downtown Snoqualmie.
Go across the street to Bindlestick Cafe and get a triple machiato, suck that baby down then jump on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail (SVT) at Mt. Si Golf Course and probably get to see a bunch of elk across from the couse.
Another option is to cross the bridge above Snoqualmie Falls, head behind the millpond to get to the Mainline to enter the tree farm.
If your plans are to hit the tree farm, you’ll need a permit ($10/day or $60/annual). Motorized permits sell out fast, passes on sale in March.
Get Avenza Maps, download this Campbell Global map pdf and add it to the Avenza app and you’ll be set using the gps on your smart phone (Location).
Main tools of the trade
- Gravel, cyclocross or mt bikes
- Helmet
- Tough MTB shoes
- Padded gloves
- ID, cash
- Water
- Fuel
- Charged phone
- Extra tube, Co2 cartridges, extra nozzle
- Allenhead tools, extra chainring and cleat bolts