In collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, the Loup Loup Ski Bowl on the east slope of the Cascades near Okanogan, Wash., is working to preserve and build over 30 miles of trails around the Loup Loup North Summit in the coming years. The trail project will take place over the next four to five years and offer a wide variety of mountain biking experiences, from technical downhill trails to more mellow cross-country trails. Various connector trails are planned to make already built Forest Service trails more functional.
Efforts began last year and saw the completion of the newest segment, a technical descending trail that feeds into the existing trail system. This year’s focus is on constructing another blue/black rated singletrack trail that descends to the Loup base area and adding another 2-3 miles of beginner trails at the base area.
To add to the developing bike trail amenities, this will be the Loup’s second year of summer operations offering bike rentals, scenic chairlift rides, and 18-hole disc golf from the summit of Little Buck Mountain. “We are working hard to emphasize accessibility for all skill levels but do not currently offer lift-assisted biking,” says marketing and business director Mike Jolly. “As our infrastructure grows,” he adds, “it is a goal that we will continue eyeing for future development.”
Summer operations will begin on June 2 and will operate Friday through Sunday each week. The collaborative trail project kicks off with Evergreen’s three-day Solstice Dig Weekend, June 16-18, with trail building, music, a beer garden, and food and camping. Come be a part of it! Visit Ticketstripe.com/solsticefunfest for details and to purchase tickets.
