The best traffic-free bike rides in Stevens County

This guide features 3 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike routes in Stevens County. These routes range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for gravel cyclists.

Stevens County offers a diverse range of terrain for gravel biking. You'll encounter everything from the rolling hills and semi-arid landscapes of the Columbia Plateau to the dense, verdant forests within the Colville National Forest. Many routes utilize low-traffic roads and forest service roads, providing a mix of gravel surfaces, some with significant elevation changes and panoramic views.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region does offer potential for family-friendly gravel biking, especially on flatter sections of rail trails or forest service roads. For a moderate option, consider the Gravel loop from Riverside State Park, which is shorter and has less elevation gain compared to other featured routes.

Stevens County is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you might encounter parts of the Colville National Forest, offering stunning forested areas. The Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead and the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Trautman Ranch Conservation Area routes follow sections of the Spokane River, providing scenic river views. You could also visit the Sunset view at the confluence of the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, a beautiful viewpoint.

The best season for gravel biking in Stevens County is typically spring through fall. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and trails are more likely to be clear of snow. Summer offers warm, dry conditions, while spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out, especially in early spring or late fall when conditions can be unpredictable.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead is a difficult route spanning over 64 kilometers with significant elevation gain, offering an extensive no-traffic gravel experience.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Stevens County, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene, low-traffic nature of the routes, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the feeling of immersion in nature, particularly within the forested areas and along river valleys.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Gravel loop from Riverside State Park and the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead.

Specific parking information is usually detailed on each individual route page. For example, the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead starts from the Wilbur Trailhead, and the Gravel loop from Riverside State Park begins at Riverside State Park, both of which typically offer designated parking areas. Always check the route details on komoot for precise starting points and parking availability.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, both the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Wilbur Trailhead and the Spokane River Centennial Trail – Deep Creek Bridge loop from Trautman Ranch Conservation Area are rated as difficult. These routes feature significant distances and considerable elevation gains, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience on low-traffic gravel surfaces.

Given the extensive natural areas like the Colville National Forest and the Colville River Valley, it's very possible to encounter wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other forest creatures, especially during quieter times of day. Always maintain a respectful distance and do not disturb animals.