Cycle Washington
On this fabulous tour through the Pacific Northwest, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the most scenic landscapes in Washington, from the lush forests of the Cascade Range’s western flank to the arid plains of the eastern slope.
After being shuttled to the top of Stevens Pass, we’ll begin with a long descent down the dry side of the Cascades to Lake Wenatchee. From the Bavarian-themed hamlet of Leavenworth, we’ll spin through apple-orchard country and then follow the Methow River upstream to Winthrop, one of the great recreation-based communities of the West. From there we’ll summit both Washington Pass and Rainy Pass, then head toward Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. After traveling back to the mainland by ferry, we’ll jump onto the Sammamish River Trail, which will return us to Issaquah and the finale of our Pacific Northwest adventure.
"Overall, a great experience largely due to the leaders and the beautiful terrain."
Day 1. Issaquah, 0 miles
We'll gather in the afternoon just east of Seattle to meet our riding companions and get ready for our adventure. After an orientation and welcome from our team of leaders, we'll share a meal before loading our bikes to prepare for the morning shuttle to our starting point, and then rest up for the adventure ahead.
Day 2. Issaquah to Wenatchee, 57 miles
Up and at 'em! After breakfast we'll shuttle to Stevens Pass before beginning our ride. We'll wind through the beautiful Cascade Mountain Range, then along stunning Tumwater Canyon and into Leavenworth before dropping into the orchards surrounding Cashmere and Wenatchee. We'll camp on the water's edge where the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers merge.
Day 3. Wenatchee to Alta Lake, 66 miles
This morning we'll follow the mighty Columbia River, weaving between orchards and through a canyon to Lake Chelan. At 55 miles long, Lake Chelan is the largest natural lake in Washington, and we'll have plenty of time to enjoy the view as we ride through the city of Chelan. We'll then follow the Columbia River to our overnight location near Alta Lake.
Day 4. Alta Lake to Winthrop, 40 miles
We'll leave the towering stone cliffs of Alta Lake this morning as we ride along the Methow River valley passing through Twisp to the Western-themed town of Winthrop. The Okanogan National Forest is the backyard of this tiny town, and is a dream location for any outdoor enthusiast. You may have some time this evening to check out this popular tourist destination's historic buildings, antique boardwalks, and art galleries.
Day 5. Winthrop to Rockport, 96 miles
We'll prepare for our longest day with a good breakfast before striking out. Our longest day also features some of the grandest views. Today you'll ride one of the greatest mountain rides in America! We'll climb up to Washington Pass and then ride 42 miles downhill through North Cascades National Park. Riding through the park, you'll be surrounded by cragged peaks and high-alpine environments, so make sure your camera is close at hand! Leaving the park, we'll follow the Skagit River to the town of Marblemount and then on to Rockport, where we'll celebrate with a good meal and a great night of sleep.
Day 6. Rockport to Bay View, 50 miles
Rested up, we'll hop on our trusty steeds and head back alongside the Skagit River, passing through the small towns of Concrete, Sedro-Woolley, and Burlington where there will be ample opportunity to stop for a second breakfast if you desire! We'll ride through the Skagit River valley and camp on Puget Sound, a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and bird watching.
Day 7. Bay View to Langley, 79 miles
We will end our riverside riding today at the Puget Sound and cross the high bridge at Deception Pass and then ride almost the entire length of Whidbey Island, which is the fifth-longest island in the continental U.S. There are opportunities to stretch your legs along the way at an old military fort and a beautiful lighthouse. We will spend the night in the quaint village of Langley on Puget Sound.
Day 8. Langley to Issaquah, 59 miles
We'll ride to the ferry landing in Clinton and enjoy a short ferry ride to Mukilteo on the mainland. Then it's inland again as we ride through Everett and along the Snoqualmie River to Snohomish. Snohomish is known as the "antique capital of the northwest" and prides itself on a thriving historical downtown. Finally we'll join the wooded Sammamish River Trail and head back to Issaquah, legs stronger and memories richer after our journey through Washington.
Know before you go
Information for eBike riders:
Because every rider, eBike, road condition, and elevation profile is different, it is ultimately up to the participant to judge best whether their battery will last through each tour day. We recommend using pedal assist in its lowest setting or off when not needed to maximize battery range. Bringing a second battery is also recommended, and it can be carried by staff and available at a designated stop during the day.
