Nowhere else is quite like the Pacific Northwest, making it one of the best destinations for jaw-dropping scenic bike rides. Washington’s Cascade Mountains feature endless tours to various peaks, lakes, rivers, and even deserts. Their mountain roads are perfect for testing your driving skills on the steep hills and daredevil curves, and you can’t beat the sweeping views as you carve your way through the national parks.
Our team at The Law Tigers, America’s motorcycle lawyers, loves to ride, so we wanted to share the details on a few of our favorite Washington State motorcycle routes. Keep reading to get ideas for your next road trip.
North Olympic Loop and Hurricane Ridge
This day’s ride starts in Port Angeles and takes you to the top of Hurricane Ridge and around the northern part of the incomparable Olympic National Park, giving you stunning views of the mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Hurricane Ridge Road has tons of “twisties” to enjoy on the way up to the visitor center, where countless mountain peaks and the glistening strait stretch out on the horizon before your eyes.
The loop starts at Port Angeles, where you’ll take US 101 towards Lake Crescent. The lake has plenty of spots to stop for lunch on the banks of its crystalline waters. You’ll work your way to the northern coast via Burnt Mountain Road. Hang right onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway and ride the shore back to Port Angeles.
Chinook Pass
The Chinook Pass ride features awe-inspiring views of Washington’s highest peak, Mt. Rainier. From Enumclaw, take State Route 410 near Mt. Rainier National Park (which is well worth a visit in and of itself) and head deep into the forests surrounding the Cascade Mountain Range. Take plenty of detours to admire the views as you continue toward the Chinook Pass.
Mountain rivers, lakes, and mighty snow-capped peaks will surround you in the mountain pass. With little traffic, you can expect a carefree ride through the Cascades with plenty of twists and turns—but always stay alert for potholes. The ride ends in Naches, WA, but you can fuel up and head back through the pass if you just didn’t get enough of the scenery the first time through.
Highway 14 by the Columbia River Gorge
This 120-mile ride begins in Vancouver, WA, just north of Portland, and it skirts the Columbia River Gorge. You’ll witness the landscape transition from alpine forest to desert as you pass through the canyon to Goldendale. If you want to gaze up at one of the state’s many volcanoes and the second highest peak in Washington, take a detour up Highway 141 toward Mt. Adams.
Whidbey Island
To reach Whidbey Island, you should take Exit 182 off I-5 and head toward Mukilteo, where you’ll take the ferry over Possession Sound. Once you’re on the island, head north on SR 525 and take SR 20 up to Anacortes.
The ride has thrilling mountain roads with twisting turns, but the best part is exploring Deception Pass. This state park is over 4,000 acres of ancient trees, lakes, and saltwater shores. You can glimpse bald eagles flying high overhead, if you’re lucky.
Spirit Lake Highway
The Spirit Lake Highway route gives you a peek into the historical volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens in 1980. The ride kicks off in Castle Rock, where you’ll hop on Highway 504 and wind your way down the Spirit Lake Highway until you reach the Johnston Ridge Observatory.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for breathtaking views of Mt. St. Helens and the field of volcanic debris left over from the colossal explosion. The ride also takes you past several glittering lakes and rivers nestled in the mountains, including Coldwater Lake, Silver Lake, and Spirit Lake.
Ride With Law Tigers, America’s Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Don’t forget to pack your safety gear as you plan your Washington State motorcycle rides. Motorcycle accidents can give bikers life-changing injuries, and that’s why our legal team at Law Tigers fights for fair compensation. Call us at 1-888-863-7216 for a free case evaluation.
