Washington State Mountain Bike Trail Guide
The mountain biking in Washington is known for world-class mountain bike trails that wind through old growth forests on dreamy loam soil throughout the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges. It’s terrain like this that has birthed a dedicated group of mountain bikers, and some great mountain bike companies like Transition Bikes and Evil Bikes. There are opportunities for great mountain bike rides close to Seattle and the Puget Sound area, as well as deep into the Cascades and Eastern Washington. Washington also has a great variety of mountain bike trails, from top-notch bike parks to high alpine epics. Additionally, there are plenty of mountain bike trails for riders of all abilities.
The mountain bike scene in Washington state is well developed with advocacy groups like Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition helping to continually maintain existing trails and further develop world-class mountain biking in Washington. There are tons of mountain bike trails in western Washington, including many trails that are close to the state’s largest cities like Seattle. The mountain biking in this part of the state is mostly located in the large old growth and second growth forests of the western Cascades. This is where the dreamy dirt is - or as the locals would call it “ the brown pow.” Some of the mountain bike trails in Washington are low enough in elevation to be ridden all year round.
Starting in the northern part of the state, Bellingham has some of the best mountain biking in Washington state and is a big-time destination for freeride and downhill mountain bikers alike. For riders down in Seattle (and evo Seattle), there are plenty of mountain bike trails that are easily accessible from the city. Heading a bit farther east on Interstate 90, there are great longer trail systems that are super fun for all-mountain and cross country riders.
Some of Washington’s best mountain bike trails are located on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains near cities like Leavenworth, Winthrop, and Wenatchee. The drier climate in this part of the state is more similar to the mountain biking in Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. There are some amazing trails in Eastern Washington that are true gems.
Where to Ride eBikes in Washington State
Ebikes are a great way to get out and cover a ton of trail, and are a ton of fun. However, before setting out on a ride, it's important to check the local rules and regulations regarding where to ride ebikes. Mountain bike trails are built on land under many different land managers. Each of these land managers likely has its own e-bike policy. It's important to know and follow these rules to help ensure continued trail access to mountain bikers and other trail users. Learn more about where to ride ebikes, and if you're curious about ebikes, read our guide to ebike classes, features & more.
Rental and demo bikes are available at evo Seattle, evo Portland, evo Denver, evo Whistler, evo Salt Lake, and evo Snoqualmie Pass. (Note: The cost of up to three bike demos can be applied toward the final cost of purchasing a new or used bike from us.)
