Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park
Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park
2.6
(26)
94
riders
Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park
03:28
52.2km
940m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 21.6 km for 92 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
19.4 km
Hyak Station
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
21.3 km
Keechelus Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
27.3 km
"The Seals"
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
28.2 km
Gravel Road by Lake Keechelus
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
49.6 km
Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
52.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
39.0 km
11.7 km
1.43 km
111 m
Surfaces
41.2 km
7.47 km
1.36 km
1.13 km
990 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,250 m)
Lowest point (730 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Monday 22 June
24°C
11°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly challenging and rewarding gravel biking adventure, the Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park delivers. This difficult 32.5-mile (52.2 km) route packs in 3070 feet (936 metres) of climbing, taking around 3 hours and 28 minutes to complete, making it perfect for experienced riders seeking a significant day out on the bike.
What to expect on Keechelus Lake – "The Seals" loop from Palouse to Cascades State Park
Expect a constantly changing landscape as you explore the area around Keechelus Lake, with expansive views near Snoqualmie Pass. The route follows historic railroad beds, including sections of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, offering glimpses of valleys from impressive trestles. You'll transition from lush forests with Western red cedar and Douglas fir to drier eastern slopes with ponderosa pines. The highlight, "The Seals," refers to unique wooden tree stumps in Keechelus Lake that emerge when water levels are low. Be prepared for a hard gravel ride; some unpaved sections can be tough, even requiring you to push your bike, so this loop is best for those with very good fitness.
Planning your visit
Planning your ride means being ready for varied conditions. While much of the route is car-free, offering a safe and scenic experience, the gravel quality can change, with some sections having larger, sharper rocks. If your route includes the 2.3-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel, remember to bring a headlight and warm layers, as it's cool, dark, and damp inside regardless of the outside temperature. This popular gravel bike route is best enjoyed when conditions are dry, allowing for the best experience on its diverse terrain.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.5 miles (52.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 3070 feet (936 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 28 minutes
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