The best traffic-free bike rides in Klickitat County

Klickitat County offers a wide selection of routes for road cyclists seeking low-traffic experiences. This guide features 16 distinct no-traffic road cycling routes, providing diverse options for exploration.

The routes in Klickitat County cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 8 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring there's a suitable challenge for every road cyclist.

Klickitat County boasts diverse terrain, from flat, scenic rides along rivers to challenging climbs through hills and canyons. Many routes follow old railroad corridors like the Klickitat Trail, offering gentle grades, while others, such as those near Old Highway 8 and Centerville Highway, provide significant ascents. You'll encounter landscapes ranging from evergreen forests and river valleys to rolling prairies and sage-covered hillsides.

Absolutely! Klickitat County is rich in natural beauty and unique attractions. Many routes offer views of the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Mountains. The Klickitat Trail itself features dramatic geological formations like steep columnar basalt cliffs and the 'Narrows' in Swale Canyon. Other points of interest include the Goldendale Observatory State Park, the Maryhill Stonehenge, and Horsethief Lake State Park. You might also pass through orchards and vineyards, especially in the eastern parts of the county.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Klickitat County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the region for its genuinely low-traffic roads, the stunning and varied landscapes, and the sense of tranquility found on routes like the Klickitat Trail. The combination of challenging climbs and serene river-side rides is often highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, the Klickitat Trail is an excellent option for families. As a former railroad corridor, it offers a gently graded, mostly flat ride, making it accessible for cyclists of varying ages and abilities. It provides a safe and scenic environment away from vehicle traffic.

Many multi-use trails in Klickitat County, including sections of the Klickitat Trail, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary for different segments or protected areas.

Klickitat County's moderate climate makes it a year-round recreational area. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, with fewer extremes in weather. Spring brings abundant wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, especially in the eastern plains, but early mornings are often ideal. Winter cycling is possible, particularly in lower elevations, but be mindful of potential rain or colder conditions.

Yes, several routes offer a loop experience, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Moiser to Mt. Ulka Preserve loop and the Memaloose Lookout – Twin Tunnels Trail loop from Mosier are popular circular options that provide varied scenery and challenges.

Parking is generally available at various access points along popular routes. For instance, the Klickitat Trail has multiple trailheads with parking facilities. For routes like the Camp Five Hill loop from BZ Corner, you'll typically find parking near the starting towns. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for precise trailhead locations and parking information.

While Klickitat County offers a more rural cycling experience, you'll find towns like Lyle, BZ Corner, and Mosier (just across the river in Oregon) that provide amenities such as cafes, small restaurants, and general stores. The region is also known for its orchards and vineyards, some of which may offer tasting rooms or local produce. Planning your route to pass through these towns can ensure you have access to refreshments.

The Klickitat Trail is renowned for its spectacular natural features. As it follows the Wild and Scenic Klickitat River, you'll cycle through the remote Swale Canyon, marvel at dramatic columnar basalt cliffs, and experience the 'Narrows' where the river carves through ancient basalt flows. The trail also offers views of diverse flora, including wildflowers in spring, and the confluence of the Klickitat and Columbia Rivers near Lyle.