As you rev your motorcycle and navigate through the untamed beauty of the Colville National Forest, a world of adventure unfolds before you. Located in the eastern reaches of Washington, this majestic forest is a haven for motorcyclists seeking the thrill of exploration and the serenity of nature. Each route offers unique vistas and varied terrains, promising a shift in perspective through the eyes of an adventurer, inviting you to explore craggy hills, verdant valleys, and shimmering lakes. Here are ten motorcycle routes that embody the spirit of backcountry adventure, complete with addresses, contact information, and websites for further inquiries.
1. Highway 20: The Gateway to Colville
Address: State Route 20, Colville, WA 99114
Contact: Colville Chamber of Commerce – (509) 684-5973
Website: www.colville.com
This iconic highway is the spine of the Colville National Forest, boasting breathtaking mountain panoramas. As you ride along, the undulating highways transform into winding curves, engaging your senses as the scent of pine fills the air. Be sure to take a pit stop at one of the numerous vista points to photograph the expansive views that stretch to the horizon.
2. Kettle River Recreation Area
Address: Kettle River Road, Riverside, WA 99115
Contact: Kettle River Recreation Area – (509) 674-2320
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=55096
This route promises a delightful blend of motorcycling and riverfront relaxation. The Kettle River Road meanders closely alongside the water, offering glimpses of pristine landscapes where ecological serenity reigns. Experience the thrill of navigating corners while enjoying the soft lull of the river’s current, ideal for brief intermissions when you wish to marvel at nature.
3. Burnt Cabin Road
Address: Burnt Cabin Road, Colville National Forest, WA 99114
Contact: Colville National Forest Headquarters – (509) 684-7000
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/colville/home
Escape into the heart of wilderness on Burnt Cabin Road, known for its ruggedness and aesthetic appeal. Aimed at the seasoned rider, this route envelops you in dense timber and offers glimpses of wildlife as you forge deeper into the woodland. The silence here speaks volumes, urging you to connect with the raw essence of the wilderness.
4. Sullivan Lake Loop
Address: Sullivan Lake, Metaline Falls, WA 99153
Contact: Sullivan Lake Ranger District – (509) 446-7500
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/colville/recarea/?recid=56139
This scenic loop encircles Sullivan Lake, where sparkling waters and lush greenery make for a picturesque backdrop for motorcyclists. The route is relatively easy, making it accessible for riders of all skill levels. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species that frequent the area, adding to the enchanting tapestry of the ride.
5. Sherman Pass Scenic Byway
Address: Sherman Pass, Kettle Falls, WA 99141
Contact: Kettle Falls Visitor Information – (509) 738-2090
Website: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/
If you crave sweeping views of the mighty Selkirk Mountains, then the Sherman Pass Scenic Byway is your destination. This route is adorned with dramatic elevation changes and abundant wildlife, offering a thrilling ride that is not for the faint-hearted. A highlight is the panoramic view from the summit, an ideal locale for reflection and photography.
6. Chewelah Loop
Address: Chewelah, WA 99109
Contact: Chewelah Chamber of Commerce – (509) 935-8829
Website: http://chewelahchamber.com/
The Chewelah Loop captivates with its serpentine roads that venture through picturesque agricultural landscapes and dense woodlands. Each turn reveals a new facet of rural life, from sprawling farmsteads to untouched wilderness. This route promises a delightful marriage of tranquility and excitement, ideal for contemplative rides.
7. North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River
Address: North Fork Rd, Pinehurst, ID 83850
Contact: North Fork Ranger District – (208) 875-1131
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inect/recarea/?recid=6793
This spectacular route follows the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River, winding its way through majestic forests. Remnants of old mining towns punctuate your journey, inviting you to imagine the stories of past hardships and triumphs. Let the sound of water cascading over rocks serenade you as you traverse this enchanting path.
8. Mt. Rainier Scenic Loop
Address: State Route 706, Ashford, WA 98304
Contact: Mount Rainier Visitor Center – (360) 569-2211
Website: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/maps.htm
Though notably more distant from Colville, this loop is an absolute gem beckoning adventurous spirits. The route encircles majestic Mt. Rainier, offering awe-inspiring views and photo opportunities galore. Abundant wildflowers blanket the region in summer, transforming it into a vibrant canvas that shifts with the seasons, a spectacle you won’t soon forget.
9. Green Mountain Road
Address: Green Mountain Rd, Colville National Forest, WA 99114
Contact: Colville National Forest Headquarters – (509) 684-7000
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/colville/home
For those seeking solitary exploration, Green Mountain Road offers a serene escape among the pines. This less-traveled path invites an intimate connection with nature, where the only sounds will be that of your motorcycle and the whisper of wind through the trees. A perfect route for introspection and tranquility.
10. Wauconda Loop
Address: Wauconda, WA 98859
Contact: Republic Ranger District – (509) 775-7400
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/colville/recarea/?recid=56165
Completing the list is the Wauconda Loop, where breathtaking views contest for your attention with the allure of rocky terrain. This loop is packed with twists and turns that will keep your adrenaline pumping, while the scenic surroundings offer a feast for the eyes. It’s a perfect finale, embodying the spirit of freedom that motorcycling represents.
In conclusion, the Colville National Forest and its surrounding areas provide unparalleled backcountry motorcycle routes, each promising unique vistas and the thrill of exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, the allure of these paths beckons you to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Pack your gear, rev your engine, and let the enchanting landscapes of the Colville National Forest ignite your spirit of adventure.
