I lived in Seattle, Washington on two occasions. First while in the military, stationed at Ft. Lewis from 1975 through 1978 and then again from 1982 through 1988 and I have to say that I totally enjoyed my time there.
Spent my time there working for The Lynnwood Cycle Barn and then Magnolia Hi Fi & Video before packing my bags and heading back to Michigan.
My riding partner Toren Youngquist had a lot to do with how big and how crazy our sportbike adventure was while I lived out west. For many years him and I rode everyday almost year around. For a few years we went on a never ending journey looking for roads that did not run straight. No matter how far, if the map showed any indication of curves, him and I were off on a journey to see if it was the road that may one day be labeled the ride to end all rides.
The back roads are simply incredible and the choices riders have who live in the Seattle area are second to none. Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, Mt St Helens, Hwy 9 and the North Cascades Hwy are nut a handful of the day long rides that offer miles and miles of insane curves.
It's not just the curves that set it apart, but the length of the twisty roads you can ride. Many in the middle of nowhere but forest and incredible mountain ranges.
On top of that there are a ton of local area roads that offer as much insanity as the longer rides and this puts Washington State in second place just behind California in my mind for the best sportbike roads in America.
Although there were many great roads we traveled, I believe we found "the road" one day as we ventured to Mt. St. Helens. The 65 mile run up Mt. St. Helens is possibly the best sportbike ride in America.
If there is something the southern states such as the "Deals Gap" area can not offer, it is the sheer awe inspiring Rocky mountain rides you'll find in this state.
Amazing elevation changes, jaw dropping vistas that only the Rocky mountain states can offer. Not to mention the lack of the south's insane humidity.
I hear the same thing over and over about how rainy it is in Washington from people who have never been to this state.
My answer to that is that it is not as bad as it is made out to be. When it rains, yes it rains in buckets and it rains for days and weeks on end. However when it is nice and it is nice a lot. This far and away one of the most beautiful states in the country.
Generally speaking the riding season lasts from March or April through late November.
I have also done a lot of climbing (Mt Rainier 2000) and hiking and Washington has some 5 star climbs and hikes. Of course outdoor activities such as these require preparation. Water, food and proper gear is an absolute must as the weather can change fast in the mountains. Having said that if you love strenuous activity and a challenge this is a great state to find it.
The Seattle area itself is an awesome place to live. Downtown Seattle is beautiful and there is so much to do. It has kick ass nightlife and a gazillion things to see and do during the day. I often wonder why I left. There are so many things to do and see that you can spend years just riding around the state and surrounding states, including British Columbia, Canada.
If you ever have the chance to take a bike to Washington state, do it! You will not regret this amazing state.
I've added some links for you to peruse should you want to consider a vacation that way. You may also want to check out my page on the Seattle area, some thoughts and a lot of photos of the area.
