Washington Off-Road Trails

Rattlesnake is a wonderful trail located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This and its sister trail, Little Rattlesnake, are well hidden and don't see a lot of traffic. This trail climbs up alongside "Rattlesnake Creek" sporting high volcanic bluffs towering above the river through old-growth forest, and then after beautiful views, travels down into the creek drainage, crossing several jeep bridges and puts you right alongside the creek and rushing white water. The trail wanders back and forth close to the creek, driving past several beautiful dispersed camping spots. The trail ends where the walking trail continues at a campsite sporting a large fire pit next to the river, allowing easy swimming access.

The Mine to Market Trail, 4W305, follows an​ old turn-of-the-century mining road used to get into the upper reaches of the surrounding mountains. Nine switchbacks climb steeply up the mountain. This trail has a caretaker who owns a cabin at the beginning of this trail. His family made a mining claim before the turn of the century, and by continually reapplying for the claim, he can keep his family cabin. He is responsible for keeping this trail open and has made continuous improvements. The cabin is at Waypoint 3. If you are traveling on a weekend, beep your horn as you pass by and look for a wave. During an interview, he stated that he always looks out for those traveling up his trail. If he doesn't see them come back down in an hour, he is on the move to see if they are in trouble.

Rock crawling can be intimidating, especially for beginners. Thankfully, First Timer is here to ease your concerns. This route bypasses the hardest obstacle of

Humps and Bumps

as well as the challenges of the nearby Skills Area of the park. The trail also connects both the top and bottom of

Rock On

, making a small loop that can be run several times over. There’s no shame in taking the easier line; all wheelers start somewhere. It’s better to leave the park wanting to come back for more than to limp away from a stressful day. Walker Valley ORV is comprised of 3,200 acres, with twelve 4X4 trails, and several more ATV and dirt bike trails. The trails offer many challenges like rocks, roots, and ruts. These obstacles will change from season to season, with the addition of snow and rain, which can also produce large puddles and muddy stretches. From the mild to wild, Walker Valley ORV provides something for everyone.

Located approximately 10 miles south-east of Mount Vernon, Washington, Timber Tamer is the first of twelve 4X4 trails located in the Walker Valley ORV Park. Despite its short length, it possesses many challenges, including a pair of rock gardens in the upper portion, a large rock obstacle in the middle, and muddy ruts below. Choosing the right line will be critical in preventing you from slamming on your differential, and rain will add another layer of challenge, making it much harder to keep from sliding. Heavily modified vehicles will have a great time testing their skills on the rocks, while more lightly modified vehicles will want to go in a group or stick to the lower section. This trail will change from season to season, with the addition of snow and rain. From the mild to wild, Walker Valley ORV provides something for everyone.

Ridge Ram is one of several trails in the Walker ORV Park, and is considered one of the more challenging. The main highlight of the trail is uphill rock garden found at the end of the first portion. On busier days, small crowds will gather along

BR-16

to watch the brave and bold attempt to tackle this uphill challenge. But if rocks aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty of trail left, with deep muddy ruts to dirty up your rig. Whether you choose to observe others or you attempt the rocks yourself, Ridge Ram is a must when you visit the park. Walker Valley ORV is comprised of 3,200 acres, with twelve 4X4 trails, and several more ATV and dirt bike trails. The trails offer many challenges like rocks, roots, and ruts. These obstacles will change from season to season, with the addition of snow and rain, which can also produce large puddles and muddy stretches. From the mild to wild, Walker Valley ORV provides something for everyone.

Nestled within the lush greenery of the Mt. Baker/Snoqualmie National Forest, Trail #198 awaits adventure seekers in the Evans Creek ORV area. The trail is part of a network of twelve trails designated for 4x4 use, offering over 45 miles of thrilling rides amidst the rugged terrain. As you embark on your journey, the trail passes through old-growth forests filled with switchbacks, narrow turns, and a few steep inclines that test the limits of your driving skills. The old-growth timber growing magnificently in all directions stands tall and straight, creating a truly majestic atmosphere. Trail #198 is an ideal trail for beginners to start their 4x4 journey, as it provides ample opportunities to build their confidence in their driving and vehicle capabilities.

Once you leave Trout Lake, NF-8810 takes you back into the forest. Waypoint 2 directs you to designated camping early on, so you can start this trail early in the morning after a night's rest. Otherwise, continue with your journey. With over 15 miles in length, Sleeping Beauty brings you up along the western side of the Mount Adams Wilderness, ultimately ending at NF-23, a paved road. There are two significant hikes near this trail. The first is Sleeping Beauty Peak. Sleeping Beauty is a challenging hike that, while only 1.3 miles in, gains nearly 1,400 feet in elevation. Atop the peak, you are rewarded with views of Mount Adams and Indian Heaven Wilderness. You'll also cross the Pacific Crest trail twice. The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,653-mile hiking and equestrian trail that spans between the Mexican and Canadian borders. Being greater in length, this trail is a nice change of pace, allowing you to cruise along, heading further north towards Mount Adams. Views of the mountain may be possible through the trees, but if you miss out, there are plenty of views from trails further on. This trail is part of the Washington Cascade Overland Route. Visit Overlanding Across Washington for more information, including which trails to take next.