VISITING wASHINGTON STATE
Home to seven distinct physiographic regions, Washington state is an illustration in contrasts and super-charged access to the outdoors. In a state renowned for its rain, Washington boasts five active volcanoes, three national parks, four temperate rainforests, more than 3000 glaciers, nearly 8000 lakes, three resident Orca pods, 157 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline, and 64 named mountain regions. Phew!
Geographical diversity
When lush alpine meadows meet snow capped peaks, and thick rainforest canopies cascade into rugged pacific coastline, you know you’re in Washington. With so much geographical diversity and wild lands access, it’s no wonder why so many of the adventure-loving types have made their way to our craggy shores, subalpine meadows and loamy trails.
Mountain biking, specifically, has quickly become Washington’s pastime. Well-maintained local trail networks offer a wide diversity of terrain: from trails meandering through the foothills of the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges such as Galbraith mountain or Dry Hill, to subalpine adventure trails such as Cutthroat Pass, to coastal shuttle trails such an Chuckanut Mountain. With some 6,700 bikeable trails sprawling across more than 11,100 miles, mountain biking in Washington state is an experience in novelty and delight.
Climate
Split into two distinct zones by the Cascade Mountain range, you’ll find the rainforest, big-time mountains and coastal towns on the west side, with drier, colder winter temps in the arid scablands that take up most of the east side. While cloudy days are typical west of the Cascades, the rain tends to stick to the winter months. Even amidst the rainy season, precipitation stays pretty patchy throughout the day, creating rain-free windows that invite the cheeky mid-day ride for those who can’t keep themselves off the mountain.
When to visit Washington State
Although the joke among locals is that rain continues every day until July 5th every year, it’s actually very common to encounter sunny days with temps in the 60s as early as March, and as late as November. Early spring tends to be one of the best times to snag some discounted hotel rates, have whole trail systems to yourself, and still catch some rays. Pack a rain jacket and some extra pairs of socks, because intermittent rain is typical in these shoulder seasons. Or, plan an October visit to watch the larches light up the trails on the east slopes of the Cascade Crest, just over 2 hours from Bellingham.
Summer in Washington used to be one of the best kept secrets in the lower 48, but it’s hard to keep something so exceptional under wraps for long. Visit Washington in July or August and be dazzled by consistent bluebird skies (July’s total average rainfall is less than 1 inch!), mild temps and a mountain biker’s paradise. Encounter a heat wave during your summer visit? Just hop in one of Washington State’s nearly 8,000 lakes after your mountain bike ride!
What type of mountain bike to use?
It depends on your experience level and favored trail-type! Like the burly stuff? Shocks are your friend. Here in Bellingham, we’re known for our roots, rock slabs, logs, jumps, and general wilderness-forward terrain. Try out a full suspension bike to get yourself up and over the many mountain features that decorate our local trails. More advanced riders tend to prefer between 150mm-170mm travel. Or, if you’re looking for a challenge, join the old schoolers on hardtail bikes for a rockier ride.
Where to ride?
Start in northwestern Washington for some of the best purpose-built single track in the state. Bellingham, specifically, is renowned as a mountain biking mecca. Head east of the Cascade mountains for drier trails that are similar to what you’d find in the Rocky Mountains - a mix of chunky rocks (surprise), a fair bit of exposure, as well as fast and smooth flow trails. We love to take highway 20 out to Winthrop and the Methow Valley for pine forests, long singletrack and high alpine meadow views. Other great spots to ride are: North Puget Sound (Tiger Mountain, Raging River, and Duthie Hill are favorites), Leavenworth, South Cascades (Mount Rainier & Mount St. Helens), Cle Elum, and the Olympic Peninsula (Dry Hill).