Spring to Fall
The route starts at the Mt Adams Ranger Station which has bathrooms (pit toilets), good parking and rangers at the information desk who really know the road conditions and weather forecasts. We recommend you stop in and say hello.
The route starts with good pavement and a slight uphill grade for the first 4.5 miles, making for a good warm up. When you turn onto NF-8810 (gravel), the climb becomes a consistent 4-6% grade. As you climb up and through the serpentine curves you will spy Mt Adams, Sleeping Beauty, Steamboat Mountain and other ridge lines. Smaller gravel roads intersect 8810. And you cross over streams … along with the Pacific Crest Trail.
At the lower elevations, the forest is thick and green with canopy over the road. As you climb higher the lush green gives way to more alpine forest. At mile 17, the climbing for the day is done!
Just before mile 19, you “T” into NF-23 (paved). With any luck, you will enjoy a full view of Mt Adams looming above you.
NF-23 is a magical downhill, twisting and turning through lush forests and then, when you are close to Trout Lake, lovely farms. Trout Lake is just a mile from the finish, enjoy the historic homes, quilt shop, and general store.
Mt. Adams Ranger Station. Pit toilets.
Lat / Long: 46.000188, -121.541437
Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!