The best gravel rides in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
5.0
(4)
60
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area offers routes through a landscape characterized by rugged topography, diverse forests, and numerous lakes, often found on roads and trails adjacent to the designated wilderness. The region features significant elevation changes, with routes traversing through areas of Douglas fir and hemlock forests at lower elevations. While the core wilderness area prohibits bicycles, the surrounding study area provides opportunities to experience the scenic beauty of the Cascade Mountains on gravel-friendly paths. These routes…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
20
riders
54.3km
03:36
990m
990m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
52.2km
03:28
940m
940m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
9
riders
93.8km
05:02
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
62.4km
03:55
900m
900m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
25.5km
01:27
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
Tips from the Community
The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is a long gravel route across Washington, great for bikepacking or long rides. The Snoqualmie Tunnel is a must—dark, damp, and fun (bring lights). Expect wind and remote stretches, so pack water and gear. Riding over trestles and through changing landscapes keeps things interesting the whole way.
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I am always amazed how different this lake looks in the spring (full) versus the fall (almost empty). Those "Seals" are visible in the fall but then go for a long swim in the winter and spring...
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The State Park is on the West shore of Lake Easton - very nice campground. An excellent overnight spot in the Spring/Summer/Fall when doing the Palouse to Cascades trail. Worth looping around the lake to see it from all sides and experience the tunnel and bridges. Decent provisions available in town.
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This is a bucket list item and crowning point for a daytrip up and back from Rattlesnake Lake. The 18-mile ride up to the Pass is relatively easy railroad grade and doable, even if you don't think you can get up here. But the highlight is then going through the tunnel to a completely different world on the other side. Definitely bring a jacket (it's maybe 45 degrees in there?) and absolutely deck your bike in the brightest lights you can find. The drip, drip, drip of water and murmurs of other people will follow you throughout the 2.3 mile tunnel. There is a very nice rest area in Hyak on the East side of the tunnel - lots of water, a bike repair stand and tools, and a nice spot for a picnic before you turn around and zoom down the trail in a third of the time it took to come up. Or you can continue on to the East if you want!
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If you have been riding West to East, this is what you have been waiting for. A unique bridge over the Yakima River. You can cross the river, stand on one side, stand on the other, stand in the middle. The bridge doesn’t mind either way. Very high quality bridge that doesn’t move when you walk on it because it used to support trains. A great place to reflect on things that have happened and say well “that’s water under the bridge”, and you’ll be both literally and figuratively correct at the same time. Can’t beat that.
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This is more of a lowlight. I'm not gonna lie... But you need to be warned. This section between Easton trailhead and the Yakima River bridge #4 just West of Cle Elum has very little going for it. It is flat; very flat. It has gravel; lots of loose gravel with two narrow hard-pack lines you need to stay within to move along. It parallels I-90, which creates a loud constant roar that battles the crunch of gravel for your hearing pleasure. Long parts of it are straight; very straight. The view is exactly the same the whole way; a hedge to the North and farmland to the South. Mostly, you are going to be looking forward to getting through this part of the trail. Think of it as purgatory, but also think of it as the price you will pay to visit the much more pleasant parts of the trail at either end.
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This is the last tunnel you will see until (or the first tunnel you have seen since) Thorp. Wooded, along the lake, nice spot to stop.
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Say hello to a friend. If you are travelling West to East, this is the first of many times you will cross over the Yakima River. OR... If you are travelling East to West, say goodbye to the friendly river you have been crossing over and over.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go gravel biking inside the designated Alpine Lakes Wilderness?
No, bicycles, including gravel bikes, are explicitly prohibited within the designated Alpine Lakes Wilderness area. This federal regulation is in place to preserve the wilderness character and protect the natural environment. However, the surrounding Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area offers numerous opportunities for gravel biking on roads and trails adjacent to or outside the official wilderness boundaries.
Where can I find gravel bike trails near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness?
While the core wilderness area prohibits bikes, you can find gravel bike trails in the surrounding Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area. Routes often follow old logging roads or established trails. For example, the Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak and the Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Snoqualmie Pass are popular options.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
There are several gravel bike routes available in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area, with komoot featuring 7 distinct tours. These range from moderate to difficult in intensity, offering diverse experiences for gravel bikers.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in this region?
For a family-friendly experience, consider routes that are generally flatter and shorter. The Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak is a moderate 15.9-mile route that offers a journey through the historic Snoqualmie Tunnel, which could be suitable for families with some biking experience.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
The best time for gravel biking in this region is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are more favorable. Autumn also offers the spectacular golden foliage of alpine larch trees in the higher elevations, though specific trail conditions should always be checked.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these gravel bike trails?
Gravel biking in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area offers stunning natural beauty. You can expect rugged topography, diverse forests ranging from Douglas fir to subalpine species, and views of numerous alpine lakes. Many routes provide extensive views of features like Keechelus Lake and the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Are there any loop trails for gravel biking?
Yes, several loop trails are available. Popular options include the Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak, the challenging Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Snoqualmie Pass, and the Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Gravel bikers often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic views of lakes and mountains, and the opportunity to explore the Cascade Mountains on gravel-friendly paths outside the wilderness boundaries.
Are there options for long-distance gravel biking?
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Snoqualmie Pass cover over 44 miles (71 km) and feature significant elevation changes, providing a challenging long-distance experience.
What towns are nearby for amenities or accommodation?
Towns such as Leavenworth, Cle Elum, and Roslyn are located near the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area and offer various amenities, including accommodation, dining, and supplies for your gravel biking adventures.
Are dogs allowed on the gravel bike trails in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
While specific trail regulations can vary, generally, dogs are permitted on many multi-use trails and forest service roads in the surrounding areas where gravel biking is allowed. Always check local signage and regulations for each specific trail, and ensure your dog is on a leash and you practice Leave No Trace principles.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails for beginners?
While many routes in the area are rated moderate to difficult, beginners can look for shorter, less strenuous sections or trails with minimal elevation gain. The Hyak Station – Hyak loop from Snoqualmie Pass is a moderate 24.2 km route with relatively low elevation gain, making it a good option for those newer to gravel biking.
Most popular routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
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