The best cycling routes in Columbia Plateau Trail State Park

The Columbia Plateau Trail State Park offers diverse terrain. You'll encounter unique channeled scablands and ancient basalt formations, remnants of Ice Age floods. The landscape is primarily semi-arid shrub-steppe. Surfaces vary, with a 3.75-mile paved section from Fish Lake to Cheney, while other developed sections feature crushed rock. The undeveloped midsection has coarse, loose gravel.

Yes, there are easy touring cycling options. For instance, the Bike loop from Cheney is an easy 10-mile route, and the Washington State Normal School – Historic F Street loop from Cheney is another easy option. The paved section of the trail from Fish Lake to Cheney is also ideal for a gentle ride.

For the paved sections, any touring or road bike is suitable. For the crushed rock sections, a mountain bike or hybrid bike is recommended. If you plan to tackle the nearly 100-mile undeveloped midsection with its coarse, loose gravel, a fat bike would be most appropriate due to the challenging conditions.

Absolutely. The 3.75-mile paved section of the trail, stretching from Fish Lake to Cheney, is particularly well-suited for family cycling. Additionally, easy routes like the Bike loop from Cheney offer a gentle introduction to the park's surroundings for all ages.

Cyclists can witness dramatic channeled scablands, ancient flood-carved basalt formations, and the unique semi-arid shrub-steppe terrain. The trail also follows the Snake River for a significant section, offering impressive views, especially near the Ice Harbor Dam. You might also spot historic railroad trestles along the way.

Yes, a significant portion of the trail (4.75 miles) passes directly through the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, offering exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. This refuge is home to over 200 bird species, including trumpeter swans, as well as larger animals like deer, elk, and moose.

While the trail can be enjoyed in various seasons, extensive planning is crucial, especially during summer when temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall generally offer more moderate temperatures, making them more comfortable for longer rides. Limited shade is a factor to consider year-round.

Yes, the park offers several circular routes. Examples include the moderate Wrights Hill – Meadow Lake loop from Cheney, which traverses rolling landscapes, and the Silver Lake – Historic Red Barn loop from Cheney, leading past historic landmarks.

Public facilities are scarce along much of the trail, especially in the nearly 100-mile undeveloped midsection. Cyclists should plan for self-sufficiency, carrying sufficient water and supplies. Developed sections may have more limited amenities. Always check current conditions and plan accordingly.

There are 5 touring cycling routes available in Columbia Plateau Trail State Park that are documented on komoot. These routes range in difficulty from easy to moderate, catering to different skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique landscapes shaped by Ice Age floods, the historic rail-trail corridors, and the opportunities to experience Eastern Washington's distinct natural beauty.

As a 130-mile rail-trail, it offers significant potential for long-distance touring. However, extensive planning is crucial due to scarce public facilities, limited shade, and challenging conditions in the undeveloped sections. Cyclists attempting the full length should be well-prepared and self-sufficient.