Olympic Discovery Adventure Route & Horse Trail loop
Olympic Discovery Adventure Route & Horse Trail loop
2.7
(20)
38
riders
02:19
20.3km
670m
Mountain biking
The Olympic Discovery Adventure Route & Horse Trail loop offers a fantastic mountain biking experience, immersing you in the lush Pacific Northwest forests. This moderate 12.6-mile (20.3 km) route, featuring 2182 feet (665 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through rolling singletrack with occasional stunning views of the snow-capped Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Expect a good workout over its estimated 2 hours and 19 minutes, but without overly technical challenges, making it a rewarding ride for those who appreciate scenic views and flowy trails. You'll find yourself surrounded by greenery, with glimpses of distant waters and peaks.
For planning your visit, access to the Olympic Discovery Adventure Route is typically straightforward, though specific parking for this loop isn't detailed. The trail is best enjoyed from late spring through early fall, when the weather is cooperative and the forest is at its most vibrant. While no permits are generally required, it's always wise to check local conditions before heading out, especially regarding any seasonal considerations that might affect trail access or comfort.
This trail is a notable off-road alternative to the paved Olympic Discovery Trail, specifically designed to accommodate mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians. It's gained a reputation as one of the best stretches for bikepacking in the region, thanks to its diverse terrain and collaborative construction by local volunteers and the Clallam County Sheriff's Chain Gang. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula away from paved roads.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Includes a very steep uphill segment
You may need to push your bike.
After 11.6 km for 710 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
5.29 km
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
10.7 km
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
20.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.0 km
7.31 km
1.93 km
Surfaces
14.1 km
4.28 km
1.93 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 14 July
23°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Dan Kelly Ridge Preserve serves as an important access point for this route. It offers dedicated parking, including facilities for equestrians, making it a convenient starting location for your ride.
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's a multi-use trail shared with equestrians and hikers, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all users.
The trail is well-constructed and well-drained, making it accessible for much of the year. However, for the most pleasant experience, late spring through early fall typically offers the best weather conditions. Be aware that after windstorms, you might encounter downed branches or wet areas.
Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees mentioned for accessing the Olympic Discovery Adventure Route & Horse Trail loop within the Dan Kelly Ridge Preserve. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the preserve or local land management agencies for any updated regulations before your visit.
This route is a multi-use trail, specifically built to accommodate mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians. Always practice good trail etiquette: yield to equestrians and hikers, announce your presence when approaching from behind, and maintain a safe speed, especially around blind corners.
The loop is approximately 20.26 kilometers (12.6 miles) long. For mountain bikers, it typically takes around 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.
While rated as 'moderate' overall, the specific Olympic Discovery Adventure Route & Horse Trail loop within Dan Kelly Ridge Preserve is considered suitable for all skill levels. However, good fitness is recommended due to numerous inclines and descents. Some portions might even require riders to push their bikes, so beginners should be prepared for some challenging sections.
The terrain largely consists of well-maintained, packed earth singletrack, with sections of doubletrack and gravel logging roads. You'll encounter natural elements like roots, especially after windstorms. The last four miles on the western end are on an old railroad grade, which is shared with logging access.
You'll traverse deep, mossy forests characteristic of the Pacific Northwest. The route offers scenic views of the snow-capped Olympic Mountains, glimpses of the blue waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island. A notable highlight is the Olympic Discovery Adventure Trail Section and the Olympic Discovery Trail and Horse Trail Junction. Around 3.5 miles in, the 'Living Room' area provides rewarding views of the Bailey Range to the south, and you might catch views of Lake Crescent towards the western end.
Yes, the route is part of the broader Olympic Discovery Adventure Route. It also passes through sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail Adventure Route, State Forest Road, Horse, Flutterby, Richard Simmons, Llama Lady, Hangry Hippo, Outer Loop, Catfish Taco, Clamborghini, Pop Vulture, Pushup, Sound Bike & Yak, Feline Frisky, Beeline, Up Trail, and Newt trails. The OAR also connects with the Spruce Railroad Trail near Lake Crescent, which is another section worth exploring.
Riders can expect stunning views of the snow-capped Olympic Mountains, glimpses of the blue waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Vancouver Island to the north. A particular highlight is the 'Living Room' area, which offers rewarding views of the Bailey Range to the south. Towards the western end, you'll also get views of Lake Crescent.
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