Skookum Flats IMBA Epic

Description for Skookum Flats IMBA Epic

Skookum Flats is a very popular trail. It follows the rugged terrain of the south side of the White River. A very scenic technical trail, providing challenge along with a nice forest experience.

From the lower trailhead Skookum Flats starts out smooth and groomed but soon turns rooty and rugged. A few very challenging climbs and descents, it's very likely you'll be hiking at a few points within the trail. Near the Skookum Falls it's worth it to slow up and soak in the atmosphere, and it's always fun to ride on the bridge along the swampy section. Near the intersection of Buck Creek Trail the trail is introduced to some high exposure as it meanders close to some cliffs. Also it returns near the river where the Palisades Cliffs are in view. More rugged terrain awaits as you approach what is popularly known as the upper trailhead on Rd. 7160 (Buck Creek Rd). But if you stay towards the left the trail runs underneath the bridge and continues on for a few miles. The trail is a bit hard to follow at times with a lot of spur trails from makeshift campsites that run across it. Eventually the trail turns primitive and ends at the Mt. Rainier Park boundary.

The Skookum Flats Trail is an hour east of Seattle on the slopes of 14,410-foot Mount Rainier. The trail winds through an amazing rain forest with towering fir trees. The height and mystical feel of this forest make riders feel like a Hobbit wandering around the woods in Lord of the Rings.

The trail is technical and rolling with enough smooth sections to help you get into the zen-like singletrack frame of mind. You can expect big climbs with serious elevation gain to beautiful ridges above the valley. There are alternate routes with less climbing. The Backcountry Bicycle Trails Club will host the Epic celebration in the Skookum Flats area, which includes Skookum Flats, White River Trail, Palisades, Ranger Creek, Noble Nob and Suntop.

Chamber of Commerce: Enumclaw

Point of Interest: Chinook Pass Scenic Byway

Lodging: Best Western
or Moose Lodge (no website), 360-825-4873

Camping: White River Campground (no website), 206-569-2211 or Silver Springs, Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (no website), 206-825-6585

Epic Ride Length: 20 miles

Altitude: 500-1,000 feet

Terrain: Twisty, technical singletrack through a massive rain forest

Directions to Skookum Flats IMBA Epic Trailhead