Bicycling Darrington
When it comes to bicycling around Darrington, there is a lot to choose from. From riding the Whitehorse Trail to the challenging mountain bike routes of North Mountain to the regional gravel roads and paved byways. There is even a BMX pump track at Old School Park for the kids.
If you are looking for a rails-to-trails experience amid a canopy of trees, along rivers and straight into the heart of logging country, look no further. The Whitehorse Trail will span 27 miles between Arlington and Darrington, once completed. This could be the getaway you’ve been pining for, essentially flat and suitable for both hybrids and mountain bikes. The trail from Darrington passes through the community of Oso where refreshments may be found at the Oso General Store, then onto Arlington.
There’s a perfect forest road ride for everyone, from a steep climb to a gradual grade. Each road is unique, offering valley views, mountains, wildflowers, waterfalls and so much more. It would take years to discover them all!
Find Your Perfect Darrington Bike Ride
Explore gravel forest roads of Darrington
We have miles and miles of forest roads taking you to scenic vistas, along rivers, through tall trees and so much more. Pick a steep grinding road for a real workout or just a relaxing ride. We have it all!
North Mountain Bike Trails
Just a little over an hour’s drive from Seattle brings you to the North Mountain Bike Trails. Some of the trail network is still under construction. When completed, this will be the largest legal mountain bike trail system in the country.
Some upper trail and the 4.6 mile North Mountain Skills Area is open, offering some family friendly rides and challenges for beginner and intermediate riders. Watch this project grow!
To get the North Mountain Skills Area from the Darrington IGA, turn left (east) on Seeman St. / SR 530, turn left (north) on SR 530, drive 1 mile, turn left (west) onto North Mountain Road, drive 1.4 miles where there is turnout parking on the right.
- See Skills Area Map
- See Project Map
- See Website
- Follow Them on Facebook
The Whitehorse Trail
The Whitehorse Trail is both beautiful and historical. Parts of this trail are still under construction. When completed it will be a 27 mile long route following the old railroad grade up the NF Stillaguamish Valley following the river, crossing several bridges, with nice vistas and historical sites. The trail can be accessed from Darrington or from Fortson Mill Park. This is an all season trail, great family ride with very little elevation gain.
Darrington Pump Track
The Pump track is located right in town at Old School City Park. It is an enjoyable family bicycling destination allowing beginning riders to hone skills and develop confidence while riding in a safe environment. It also can offer the more experienced rider a good workout while improving riding skills.
Planning on bicycling up to Darrington?
There are a couple of options. One can ride on SR 530, but keep in mind this road has some narrow shoulders and a lot of truck traffic. Or, for more of a long haul, ride up the scenic Mountain Loop Highway (from Granite Falls) which at its heart changes from pavement to gravel. It is also possible to transport bicycles on the Community Transit. By 2020 it should be feasible to ride the Whitehorse Trail all the way from Arlington to Darrington.