Written by: Mike Smart

Central Washington State is home to some breathtaking riding spanning thousands of feet of elevation change across various ecosystems. Hero dirt lines gigantic moss-covered pine trees with vast views across riverways. Located about 2 and a half hours east of Seattle, Leavenworth, WA trails provide something for just about everyone. Rock climbing, camping, hiking, and mountain biking are abundant in this beautiful place.

For those interested in Epic days on the bike - 4th of July Trail to Icicle Ridge will provide riders with a loop to remember. Black Diamond ratings don’t do these trails justice - this is one to remember! 

Those up for an adventure can ride out from downtown Leavenworth on route 76 to the 4th of July Trailhead. This trail starts at about 2,300ft and will top out around 6,800ft - all in 5 miles! 

It’s highly recommended to bring hiking shoes and hike the uphill - 4,000ft of ascent over 5 miles makes for some extremely steep, technical, and difficult terrain. Take your time on the hike and enjoy the vast views of the surrounding valley. 

Once 4th of July Trail tops out around 6,800ft, riders will experience a 10-mile, 5,600ft downhill with views of Leavenworth and surrounding areas. Riders on trail bikes, like the Niner Jet9RDO will be rewarded with its technical trail capability while riders on XC-style bikes may not enjoy the steep and gnarly terrain as much. 

Some recommendations:

• Pack hiking shoes for the climb. This trail is very steep and technical. You’ll spend a majority of the time hiking - guaranteed.
• Switch to mountain bike shoes for the long 10+ mile downhill
• Bring a backpack with jacket and snacks for the long day. The uphill hike will last at least 3 hours and the downhill, depending on how many stops are taken, could take another 2
• Bring a camera to catch some awesome pics of you and your buddies shredding trail on the descent
• Bring a cell phone- you get good service on the ride and might change your mind about completing the loop at some point.