Events - Event View

Length: 46.4 miles (but ride your own distance)
Pace: 10-12ish mph (gravel is slower)
Terrain: Minor (railroad grades >2.9%)
Elevation: 837 feet
Ride Type: Non-Group
Cancelation Guidelines: Rain / Snow / Ice / Thunderstorms / Wind > 25 mph

You must arrive and be ready to ride at least 10 minutes before the scheduled 9:30 AM departure time!

DETAILS

Discover the Willapa Hills Trail: A Perfect Introduction to Gravel Cycling!

Ready to try gravel cycling but feeling a little intimidated? The Willapa Hills State Park Trail is your ideal starting point! This incredible trail offers a unique, car-free experience without daunting climbs or overly chunky gravel (though it does get a bit rougher past our planned turnaround point at Pe Ell). You'll never be far from civilization, and since it's an out-and-back route, getting lost is simply not an option.

As you roll along, you'll enjoy diverse landscapes, from picturesque farms and cool, forested sections to stunning bridges offering breathtaking views of the Chehalis River. Keep your eyes peeled for abundant wildlife! You might spot numerous birds, the occasional deer, and plenty of farm animals. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a porcupine scurrying into the bushes.

For those who've enjoyed the "Ride the Willapa" event in the past, you may know it wasn't held this year. This is your opportunity to experience this amazing ride in 2025!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tire Recommendation: For the smoothest ride, tires at least 35mm wide are recommended, and a minimum of 28mm tires are definitely encouraged.

Regrouping & Bathroom Stops: There are bathrooms at the starting point, the Adna Trailhead (mile 5), the Rainbow Falls State Park Campground (mile 16), and in Pe Ell (mile 23). We will regroup at the Rainbow Falls State Park Campground for those keeping pace. Faster or slower riders are welcome but be prepared to ride on your own.  Please let the ride leader know if you leave the group.

Turnaround & Lunch Stop: We'll ride to Pe Ell (mile 23), where you'll find picnic tables perfect for enjoying a packed lunch. Forgot something? There's a convenient little store right off the trail in Pe Ell! You're welcome to continue on beyond Pe Ell for a longer ride although the trail becomes rougher.

Getting There: The Chehalis trailhead is about a 1.5-hour drive north on I-5 from Salmon Creek. Carpooling is highly encouraged!

Discover Pass Required: Please note that a Discover Pass is required to park at the Chehalis trailhead. They do issue tickets if you don't have one, so be sure to get yours in advance!

The Willapa Hills State Park Trail is continuously being improved. While some sections further west of Pe Ell are still undeveloped and have active closures due to washouts and unsafe trestles, the section we'll be riding provides an accessible and truly engaging gravel experience.

Ready to hit the gravel?

REGISTRATION

NOTES

• Please arrive early to be a part of the announcements and safety briefing, and be ready to ride at 9:30AM sharp.
• Riders are expected to have read the Safe Riding Policy and be familiar with the Ride Style Definitions.
• Please direct questions to the ride leader or Road Captain.
• Helmets are required. Lights (front and rear), RoadIDs and cell phones are recommended.
• Please complete an ABC Quick Check prior to arriving at the start (air, brakes, chain and crank; quick releases and a short ride to make sure all is working properly). And an ABC Quick Check once again at the start.
• Riders should be able to maintain the stated pace. Please communicate with the leader if you decide to go faster or slower, or return to the start.
• Remember - we want to be awesome representatives for cycling and spread a love for our great sport locally by obeying all traffic laws and riding in a safe and courteous manner. Ride safely and have fun!