The best gravel rides in Clark County

Clark County offers a diverse network of gravel biking opportunities. This guide highlights a selection of 6 challenging routes, but the region has many more trails to explore, with over 150 gravel bikers having used komoot to discover the area's varied terrain.

While many of the featured routes in Clark County present challenging climbs and are rated as difficult, the region does offer more accessible options. For instance, the Heritage Trail at Lacamas Lake is a shared-use gravel path that provides a pleasant ride along the shoreline, suitable for those seeking a less strenuous experience. The Salmon Creek Greenway Trail also offers a hard-surfaced pathway through scenic areas.

Gravel biking in Clark County offers a wide variety of terrain. You can expect everything from serene lakefronts and shared-use gravel paths to challenging forested trails with significant elevation changes. Routes often traverse wooded areas, river gorges, and wetlands, providing a dynamic and engaging riding experience.

Yes, Clark County is rich in natural beauty. The East Fork Lewis River – Moulton Falls and Bridge loop from Moulton Falls Regional Park is a fantastic option, exploring wooded trails along the Lewis River and passing by multiple waterfalls, including Moulton Falls, Lucia Falls, and Yacolt Falls. The Columbia River Gorge also offers breathtaking views and panoramic vistas on routes in that area.

Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes in Clark County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Leif Erikson Drive – Northwest Leif Erikson Drive loop from North Prescott Street and the Northwest Leif Erikson Drive – Leif Erikson Drive loop from Forest Park, both offering extensive rides through forested areas.

Beyond the natural landscapes, you can encounter several interesting points. Along the Lacamas Lake area, you might spot the Round Lakes Upper Dam. The Burnt Bridge Creek Trail offers views of wetlands and restored habitats, while the Columbia Riverfront Renaissance Trail provides scenic river views. For a historical perspective, Fort Vancouver is also nearby.

Yes, there are options for families. While some routes are challenging, trails like the Lacamas Heritage Trail and the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail offer relatively flat, shared-use paths that are great for families. These trails often feature wildlife viewing opportunities and pleasant scenery, making them enjoyable for all ages.

Clark County offers gravel biking opportunities year-round, but spring and fall are often ideal due to milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. After rain, the waterfalls at Moulton Falls Regional Park are particularly spectacular. Winter rides are possible, but some trails might be muddy or require more robust gear.

Many routes in Clark County feature stunning water views. The Lacamas Heritage Trail provides beautiful vistas of Lacamas Lake, while routes along the Columbia River Gorge offer breathtaking river panoramas. The East Fork Lewis River – Moulton Falls and Bridge loop follows the scenic Lewis River, showcasing its natural beauty.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and regional parks throughout Clark County. For example, the Moulton Falls and Bridge loop starts from Moulton Falls Regional Park, which has dedicated parking facilities. Similarly, Lacamas Lake Regional Park offers parking for access to the Lacamas Heritage Trail.

The gravel biking routes in Clark County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs through dense forests to serene lakefront paths, and the stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls and river gorges.

While popular routes like those around Leif Erikson Drive are well-known, exploring areas like Whipple Creek Park in Ridgefield can feel like a hidden gem. It offers pristine, tranquil wooded trails through massive Douglas fir trees, providing a peaceful and less crowded gravel biking experience.

Clark County has a growing craft beverage scene, particularly in areas like Vancouver and Camas. While specific routes might not lead directly to breweries, many are located within a short ride or drive from trailheads, allowing you to enjoy a post-ride refreshment. It's recommended to check local listings for establishments near your chosen trail.