CURRENT CONDITIONS

83° F

OUTSIDE WALLA WALLA

Eastside

Cycling Toward the Mountains (Photo Credit: Gwen Dildine)

ACTIVITIES

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Road Routes ,

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(Biking & Cycling, Road Routes)

Overview

Summary

The mountains are calling, and it is time to go for a ride! Trade the wheat fields for sagebrush and Douglas fir trees. The change of scenery is profound. If you are in search of a ride that feels like it can transport you to another place, head east. Climb past the crops and wander through the mountains near a river or two. A handful of paved roads offer a portal to a completely different landscape.

WHAT TO EXPECT

In the spring, the sprouting fields are so deliciously green, and, as summer fades, the golden hues of a bountiful harvest really steal the show. As magical as that seasonal...

In the spring, the sprouting fields are so deliciously green, and, as summer fades, the golden hues of a bountiful harvest really steal the show. As magical as that seasonal promise of routine and tradition truly is, it also means there are some really, really big farm equipment on the road. The share-the-road mantra is next level in the Walla Walla Valley.

This warning is not to deter your inner cyclist, but rather prepare you for the fact that during certain parts of the year, wheat that was casually blowing with the breeze finds itself in the back of a large truck going at least 35 miles an hour. As someone who can put harvest driver on her resume, I implore you to realize that it is incredibly hard to ask a fully loaded truck to respond in a timely fashion.

Amenities
There are no public restrooms along the routes. Make sure to set out on the ride with ample water supply.

Regulations
The State of Washington considers those on a bicycle a vulnerable user of a public way. Washington does not mandate helmets, but please wear a helmet. The state does not define which lane riders use, but if slower than the flow of traffic, ride as far to the right as possible.

Perhaps of most use is the vehicle detection error law that allows riders to proceed through a traffic signal if that signal fails to respond to the rider. For more light reading, visit the Washington State Legislature website on the Revised Code of Washington, specifically Chapter 46.61.760.

In Oregon, similar laws apply, although helmets are required under the age of sixteen. Remember, bicycles are considered vehicles, and it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence.

Wildlife Awareness
We are all so fortunate to recreate in the Blue Mountains and Walla Walla Valley. So many opportunities exist to play outside, whether in a national forest, wilderness area, or on a Wild and Scenic River. With these opportunities comes great responsibility to appreciate that we are mere visitors and should all take pride in being good stewards of the wild.

Many animals call these protected places home, including moose, elk, bear, cougar, bobcat, and snakes to name a few. Take precautions to respect their home and understand the appropriate response should an encounter occur.

Additionally, many plant species thrive in the Blue Mountains, so staying on trail is always good practice.

Carry First Aid supplies to better respond to accidents or encounters, and always let others know where the day’s adventure is taking you.

Field Notes
Disclaimer: While the Outside Walla Walla team has enjoyed all the adventures listed on this site, we cannot provide real-time conditions & maintenance reports. Extreme weather can change access overnight. Volunteer groups might lose capacity to manage trail systems. We do our best to report that information and update our site accordingly, but please read our Disclaimer (footer) and proceed with any adventure as your comfort level allows.

WHAT TO DO

Biking

Mill Creek Out & Back (Intermediate)

This ride is one of the best ways to escape the valley and surround yourself with the splendor of the Blue Mountains. If you make it far enough, you can cross your wheels into Oregon and brag that you rode two states in one day. Expect subtle elevation gain with the change of scenery. A few wineries line Mill Creek Road, so it is totally possible to partake in the full Walla Walla experience. Note that this two-lane country road is windy with little to no shoulder.

Five Mile Loop North to South | A (Beginner, Intermediate)

If there was an award for iconic Walla Walla bike ride, this loop would top the podium. This 16.1 mile loop never disappoints. Enjoy wide, paved shoulders for a portion of Russel Creek, which then narrows to a classic two-lane country road with variable shoulder conditions.

Five Mile Loop North to South | B (Intermediate)

Taking advantage of the many joys of the valley, this loop wanders through town, along the creek, and skirts the mountains for spectacular views. This ride is 19.4 miles on two-lane country roads. The shoulder condition varies.

Bike Path to Rooks Park Out & Back (Beginner)

Since Walla Walla is decidedly the town so nice they named it twice, this route mirrors that sentiment as it might win nicest bike path! Expect joggers, kids learning to ride any number of wheeled accessories, and folks making unexpected stops to bird watch! Clocking in at 8.7 miles, it is a perfect way to balance a busy itinerary (or chores) with a rejuvenating jaunt along the river.

Cottonwood to Russell Creek Loop (Beginner, Intermediate)

Enjoy the epic ride of our valley! Wide open views from north to south, east to west will make it hard to focus on the road ahead. Don’t forget to travel this route throughout the year to view the valley in all four seasons. The road is a two-lane country road, and expect to travel 17 miles.

Eastside Gallery

WHEN TO GO

Cycling the Walla Walla Valley is a four-season sport. If you are local, grab your helmet anytime the mood strikes you. With an average rainfall hovering around 20 inches per year, that leaves hundreds of dry, sunny days to explore...

HOW TO GET THERE

We love to collaborate with fellow outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Many thanks to the retired owners of Walla Walla’s beloved Allegro Cyclery for curating these routes. Consider downloading the Ride with GPS application (app) to access a shared tour, event, or...