The best road cycling routes around Pullman

The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail loop from Pullman offers a delightful road cycling experience through the unique, rolling wheat fields of the Palouse region. This easy 19.4-mile (31.1 km) route, with a gentle 415 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain, follows a paved asphalt path built on a former railroad line. You'll enjoy views of the agricultural landscape, cross Paradise Creek multiple times, and might even spot local wildlife, making for a scenic ride that takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail provides convenient amenities like restrooms, benches, and bike racks along the way. While the trail is mostly flat, be aware that strong headwinds can sometimes increase the effort, especially when heading east. It's a great option for a relaxed outing, and parking is easily accessible in Pullman to begin your journey.

This trail is part of the federal "Rails to Trails program," preserving old railroad corridors for recreational use, and serves as a vital paved connection between Washington State University in Pullman and the University of Idaho in Moscow. In Moscow, it seamlessly links with the Paradise Path and Latah Trail, expanding your cycling options. Don't miss the interpretive signs that share insights into the region's history, agriculture, and ecology, or the

This moderate 24.7-mile (39.8 km) road cycling loop from Pullman offers a classic Palouse experience, guiding you through sweeping, undulating hills and a vibrant patchwork of agricultural fields. You'll encounter "Palouse style rolling hills" that provide a consistent workout, with 1444 feet (440 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding ride for those with good fitness. The route delivers picturesque views of the unique landscape, a hallmark of Pullman road cycling popular trails routes.

To plan your ride, start from Pullman, where you can easily access the rural roads that form this loop. While specific parking isn't detailed for this exact route, general parking is available in Pullman. The best time of year for road biking Pullman is generally from spring to fall, when the weather is most favorable. Always be mindful of seasonal conditions, including wind and agricultural spraying, which can impact your ride.

What makes this route notable is its ability to showcase the distinct beauty of the Palouse region without requiring the extreme climbs found on some other routes. It's a great option for experiencing the area's unique terrain and rural charm, connecting you with the network of roads that local cyclists frequently enjoy. This loop is a solid choice among Pullman road cycling elevation profiles for a balanced challenge.

If you're looking for a unique road cycling experience that blends natural beauty with historical context, the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail – Paradise Path loop from Moscow is a fantastic option. This moderate 40.9-mile (65.7 km) route, with 1110 feet (338 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You'll traverse the rolling wheat fields of the Palouse, cross Paradise Creek on old railroad bridges, and even pass through the University of Idaho campus, all while connecting two states on a smooth, paved surface.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible and well-equipped with amenities like rest areas and emergency phones. While the path is predominantly smooth, some sections have reported cracks, so be mindful if you're on a road bike. No permits or fees are required, and you can easily find access points in Moscow. Consider visiting during milder seasons to fully enjoy the open landscapes and avoid potential strong winds.

This loop is a prime example of a successful "Rails to Trails" project, repurposing former Union Pacific Railroad lines into a recreational pathway. It's not just a scenic ride; it's also a hub within a larger trail network, connecting to the Latah Trail and offering over 38 miles of paved pathways in total. Look out for historic plaques and the unique "Walk of the Planets" section, which adds an educational twist to your journey.

The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail – Paradise Path loop offers a delightful road cycling experience through the unique Palouse region. You'll pedal past picturesque rolling wheat fields, following Paradise Creek and crossing it multiple times on historic railroad bridges. Keep an eye out for the impressive giant grain elevator and various interpretive signs that dot the route, offering glimpses into the area's rich agricultural and natural history. This easy 27.3-mile (43.9 km) ride, with its gentle 758 feet (231 metres) of elevation gain, provides a scenic escape.

Planning your ride on this paved trail is straightforward, as it's designed for accessibility. While the route is generally smooth, be prepared for some sections with poorly patched asphalt, which can create a jarring experience, especially on a road bike. The area can also be quite windy, particularly when heading west, so check the forecast. Amenities like restrooms, benches, and emergency phones are available along the trail, making it convenient for a 1 hour and 52 minute outing.

This trail is more than just a path; it's a successful rail-to-trail conversion that symbolically links two states, Washington and Idaho, by connecting Washington State University in Pullman with the University of Idaho in Moscow. It's a key part of a larger trail system, with the Paradise Path extending to the Latah Trail, offering even more cycling opportunities. Don't miss the "Walk of the Planets" on the Idaho side, a unique feature that adds an educational twist to your journey.