The best traffic-free bike rides in Klickitat County

There are 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails in Klickitat County featured in this guide. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful and scenic riding experience away from vehicular traffic.

The terrain on Klickitat County's gravel trails is diverse, ranging from packed gravel to sections with larger, looser 'chundery' gravel, and even railroad ballast. This variety offers an engaging ride, with wider tires (40mm-45mm+) often recommended for comfort, especially after rain. You'll encounter everything from river valleys to high plateaus and forested areas.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes in this guide are rated as 'difficult'. For example, the Klickitat Park – View of the Klickitat Valley loop from Lyle covers nearly 100 km with significant elevation gain, offering a substantial challenge for experienced riders.

Klickitat County offers stunning natural beauty. You can expect views of the Klickitat Valley, the Columbia River Gorge, and even Mount Hood from routes like the View of the Klickitat Valley – Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park. The region is also known for its abundant wildflowers in spring, particularly near Lyle, and the dramatic landscapes of the Klickitat River canyon.

While all routes in this guide are rated 'difficult' due to their length and elevation, the Family Man Bike Skills Park loop from Spring Creek Hatchery State Park, though still challenging, is associated with a bike skills park, which might offer a more contained and engaging experience for families with advanced riders. For easier, shorter options, consider exploring specific sections of trails like the Klickitat Trail that might be less demanding.

Spring and fall are generally excellent for gravel biking in Klickitat County. Spring brings abundant wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while fall offers cooler weather and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, especially in the eastern parts of the county, and some sections of trails can become rougher after heavy rain, making wider tires more comfortable.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park and the Panorama Point – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Hood River, providing convenient round-trip experiences.

Many routes start from state parks or towns that offer parking facilities. For instance, the Klickitat Park loop starts from Mayer State Park, which typically has parking. When planning your ride, check the specific route details for recommended starting points and parking availability.

For those seeking longer rides, the Klickitat Park – View of the Klickitat Valley loop from Lyle is one of the longest, spanning nearly 100 kilometers. Another substantial option is the View of the Klickitat Valley – Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park, which covers over 70 kilometers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural scenery, the challenging and diverse terrain, and the opportunity to ride away from traffic, immersing themselves in the peaceful landscapes of the Klickitat River canyon and surrounding areas.

Beyond the trails themselves, Klickitat County offers several attractions. You can explore Dalles Mountain State Park for spectacular views, visit the Maryhill Museum of Art, or see the replica of Stonehenge. The Goldendale Observatory State Park also offers exceptional stargazing. For more information on local activities, you can visit the Klickitat County website.