Sequim to Quilcene Gravel Loop

The Olympic National Forest has some incredible low traffic gravel roads in good shape to ride on. This loop will take us in the rain shadow from the 7 Cedars Casino in Blyn south to Quilcene via Bon Jon Pass and back. If crowds and traffic are not for you, if you have a rugged bike with big tires, if you enjoy challenging climbs and long descents, here is a ride on roads far less traveled.

This route is mostly on forest service roads (~35% gravel), some are primitive, many are unpaved and have unmarked hazards, so gear selection is important. A typical road bike is too dainty and most mountain bikes are too cumbersome to ride gravel well. Bikes that make good gravel bikes range from cyclocross bikes to rigid 29ers, some hybrids, touring bikes, "all-road" and “adventure” bikes. On this ride you will need something that can accommodate at least 30mm tires, although 32's would be better (I use 38’s on my gravel bike, however, for this route that is kinda beefy), will be comfortable and efficient over 60 miles (flatbar/mtn bikes often have a problem here), and you feel will climb and descend well on primitive roads including chipseal, loose gravel, rocks, potholes and other obstacles all while being fast enough on paved sections. Make sure you have at least two tubes, enough air and 2 bottles of water, or a hydration pack (preferred). There is an opportunity to resupply food/water at mile 40 in Quilcene, but there are no other services on the route.

I usually post my gravel rides one pace lower than I would for a road ride. However, "pace" in the traditional sense, is not so meaningfull for gravel. There is a lot of climbing on this ride! And, most of it is front loaded. I've worked the route so that most of the significant climbing is on unpaved sections, and the big descents are largely on paved road. It should be thrilling! Riders are encouraged to take these sections at their own pace. An effort will be made to accommodate a range of abilities. We will regroup at the top of the climbs and at major intersections, however GPS navigation is strongly recommended (no cue sheets are provided). Plan on six hours in the saddle. Riders with the route on their device can ride as hard as they want or hang back and take their time. If you are new to gravel, feel free to reach out with any questions.