The best cycling routes in Kittitas County

The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail from Hyak to Easton offers a rugged and scenic touring cycling adventure, traversing a historic railroad bed through changing landscapes. You'll pedal through dense forests of firs and hemlocks, eventually opening up to drier, more expansive views of the Cascade Peaks. The route features the impressive 2.3-mile (3.7 km) Snoqualmie Tunnel, a dark and chilly passage, and offers tranquil moments by Lake Easton, making for a memorable ride.

This difficult 35.8-mile (57.6 km) cycling route, with 1180 feet (360 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 19 minutes, requires careful planning. Crucially, as of December 2025, this section of the trail was reported closed due to washouts, so always verify current conditions before you go. The Snoqualmie Tunnel is also closed seasonally from November 1st to May 1st, and the unpaved, compacted gravel surface is best tackled with a mountain or fat-tire bike.

Following the path of the old Milwaukee Road, this trail is rich in history, offering a glimpse into the region's past. Beyond the tunnel, you'll cross several high trestles that provide spectacular viewpoints, and Lake Easton State Park offers amenities along the way. Primitive campsites are available at Cold Creek and Roaring Creek for those looking to extend their journey, though potable water is not supplied there.

Embark on a touring cycling adventure along the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, a moderate 27.3-mile (43.9 km) route that guides you through a remarkable transition from the dense, green forests of the Cascade Mountains to the drier, open landscapes of central Washington. With 601 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 4 hours and 7 minutes, this segment offers a diverse experience, showcasing historic rail features and natural beauty, including views near Lake Easton State Park.

Planning your ride requires attention to the Palouse to Cascades Trail surface type; while much of it is light gravel, be prepared for sections with loose gravel and soft sand, making wider tires a smart choice. Always check the Washington State Parks website for the latest trail conditions and potential closures, especially concerning the Snoqualmie Tunnel, which is typically inaccessible from November through April. Carrying sufficient water is also essential, particularly in more remote areas.

This trail segment is part of the historic "Milwaukee Road" corridor, offering a tangible connection to the region's railway heritage and its role in the developing Great American Rail-Trail. It provides a unique opportunity to witness Washington's diverse ecosystems firsthand, from lush forests to arid shrub-steppe, making it a compelling choice for those interested in Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail touring cycling difficulty and varied scenery.

The Coal Mines Trail offers a delightful and easy touring bicycle experience, tracing a wide, crushed-gravel path through central Washington forests. You'll enjoy sweeping panoramic views that stretch from the Teanaway Valley to the impressive Stuart Range, with Mount Rainier often gracing the horizon on clear days. This 10.4-mile (16.7 km) route features a gentle 443 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable ride for all skill levels, typically taking around 1 hour and 8 minutes.

For the best cycling conditions, plan your visit between spring and fall. The trail is a multi-use pathway, welcoming hikers and equestrians alongside cyclists, and even transforms into a winter wonderland for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. Access is straightforward, connecting the charming towns of Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ronald, with no permits or fees required.

This trail is steeped in history, following a former Northern Pacific Railroad branch line that once transported coal and passengers. Informational signs along the way highlight the area's rich coal mining heritage, including visible remnants like old slag piles. You'll also pass the Coal Miners' Memorial and the Roslyn Urban Forest, and the trail connects directly to Roslyn, famously known as a filming location for the television show "Northern Exposure."

Pedal through a landscape carved by time on the Yakima Canyon Road, a moderate 35.9-mile (57.8 km) touring cycling route that winds alongside the Yakima River. You'll be surrounded by towering basalt cliffs, some reaching 2,000 feet, and rolling desert hills, offering a truly immersive experience in a largely uninhabited canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bighorn sheep and various raptors as you enjoy the smooth, paved surface.

This scenic ride, with its 1383 feet (421 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. It's best enjoyed in spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. While generally beginner-friendly, be aware of traffic and narrow shoulders in some areas. Convenient rest stops with amenities are available at recreation sites like Roza, but cell reception can be unreliable, so plan your communication accordingly.

The Yakima River Canyon is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, celebrated for its significant geological features and serving as a popular spot for fishing and rafting. This route offers a fantastic alternative to the nearby interstate, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and accessible cycling. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a rewarding day trip that combines moderate effort with stunning desert canyon vistas.

This difficult 34.8-mile touring cycling route in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest features 4318 feet of elevation gain and scenic pas

This easy 15.2-mile (24.4 km) touring cycling route, typically taking around 1 hour and 59 minutes, offers a unique journey across Washington's diverse landscapes. Following the historic Milwaukee Road, you'll experience a fascinating transition from forested areas to arid scrublands, with the gentle 162 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain making it accessible for many. The trail's surface is mostly crushed gravel, but be ready for some sandy patches, especially as you approach the U.S. Army Yakima Training Center, where the scenery opens up to dramatic basalt cliffs.

When planning your ride, consider that while this section is easy, the full Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail has varying conditions. Mountain bikes or road bikes equipped with gravel tires are recommended for the best experience on the mixed terrain. If you're looking to explore the famous Snoqualmie Tunnel, remember it's closed from November 1st to May 2nd each year. Always carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out along the route.

The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail stands out as one of the longest rail-trail conversions in the United States, preserving a significant piece of railroad history. This route provides an excellent opportunity for best routes Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail touring cycling, allowing you to explore Washington's ecological diversity from a unique perspective. The trail's gentle grade, inherited from its railway origins, makes it a family-friendly option for those seeking a longer, yet manageable, cycling adventure.

If you're seeking a touring cycling adventure that truly spans Washington's diverse ecosystems, the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail delivers. This moderate 37.0-mile (59.5 km) route, typically taking around 4 hours and 34 minutes, offers 1355 feet (413 metres) of elevation gain as it transitions from dense forests to arid landscapes. You'll ride along historic railway corridors, crossing impressive trestle bridges with sweeping views, and experiencing the quiet beauty of rivers and farmlands.

Planning your ride means being ready for varied surface conditions; much of the trail is unpaved, with sections of gravel, loose gravel, and even sand, particularly further east. Mountain bikes or fat-tire bikes are often recommended for the best experience. Keep in mind that the iconic Snoqualmie Tunnel is closed from November 1st to May 1st, so check seasonal conditions if your route includes it, and always carry enough water, especially in drier sections.

This trail is a testament to an ambitious rail-trail conversion, following the historic Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul-Pacific Railroad corridor. It's one of the nation's most epic rail trails, celebrated for its dramatic geographic diversity and the unique experience of traversing old railway infrastructure. The recently renovated Beverly Bridge, for example, offers stunning views and connects vast sections of the trail, making it a significant point of interest for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

The Salmon La Sac Road offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the scenic Cle Elum River Valley, winding past forested areas and offering open views to the south. You'll find a mix of smooth asphalt and some chip seal sections, with the potential for unpaved forest roads if you're looking for more challenge. Keep an eye out for glimpses of Mount Rainier on clear days, and enjoy the serene atmosphere along the river, perhaps stopping at Speelyi Beach for a break. This moderate route covers 16.3 miles (26.3 km) with 636 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 34 minutes.

Planning your ride on Salmon La Sac Road is straightforward, especially given the low vehicle traffic, which makes for a more relaxed journey. The road serves as a gateway to other trails and offers access to the Cle Elum River at spots like Bell Creek Water Access and the Cle Elum River Campground. Be mindful of wildlife; bears are common in the area, so secure your food. Remember that the road converts to a Sno-Park in winter, so plan your visit for the warmer seasons to enjoy the best cycling conditions.

This area, situated on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, is characterized by its glaciated terrain, featuring detailed topographic elements and varied elevations. The Salmon La Sac Road is a key access point to the vast Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and provides entry to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, though a permit is needed for wilderness access. It's a great option for those seeking scenic viewpoints and a connection to the natural features of this beautiful region.