Trail Description:
This is a great ride with fantastic views. From the end of the Iron Creek Road, climb up Iron Creek on a mostly smooth trail to a saddle and the junction of the Teanaway Ridge Trail. Turn right and start the steep and sometimes rocky loooong climb up and over hill #5489, down a bit through the rocks and then up to the shoulder of Miller Peak. The high point of the ride is a long traverse on the southern face of Miller Peak, with views that go on forever, including Mount Rainier and the east face of Mount Stuart. Take a side trip to the top of Miller Peak if you want, then ride the long downhill into Miller Creek and into Bear Creek. Touch a dirt road for 25 feet, then back on the single track up (and up) Bear Creek and back to the Teanaway Ridge. Ride back down Iron Creek to your vehicle.
How to get there:
Iron Creek is on Highway 97, 5 miles southwest of Blewett Pass (which is actually Swauk Pass) or 2 miles northeast of Mineral Springs.
Additional Notes:
Take all the backcountry essentials - this ride is really out in the boonies! Althought the entire
| Posted by: Brad from Seattle on 7/27/2006 |
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I didn't think anyone ever rode this trail until I saw
these postings. this ride is simply phenomenal.
very few rides really give you a feeling of being "out
there" like this one. the traverse of miller peak is
the kind of mt. bike experience you compare all
others against. Virtually all this trail is rideable if
you're strong, and the trail is in superb condition.
good thing its a little too hard to attract much
attention.
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| Posted by: MoabJosh on 6/30/2005 |
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Clockwise it was, and I found it 96% rideable but a grunt. Supurb downhill. No motororized vehicles were allowed beyond the turnoff at Teanaway Ridge Trail, which was cool, although we didn't see a soul until we started down Miller Creek, where we met some hikers. Looks like the Bear Creek section is being widened to accomodate 4 wheelers in that section which would be a shame. Enjoy this trail while pristine!
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| Posted by: Gearz on 8/23/2003 |
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This is one of the best rides around. I disagree with previous reviewers stating the ride is best in a clockwise direction and that most of the uphill is pushing rather than riding. Do the ride as described, get yourself into great shape before doing this ride, and most of the uphill will be rideable and enjoyable. Doing the ride clockwise guarantees at least two miles of pushing up Miller Creek valley which is a blast coming down. This ride puts the 'mountain' back into the word 'mountain biking' and is truly an exceptional ride for strong riders comfortable with technical sometimes loose, rocky trails. Remember these trails are shared with motos and generally get looser and more chopped up as the season progresses so go early season (June to mid July) or late after some fall rain knocks down the moon dust. Be sure to take the side trail to the very top of the mountain where the views are unmatched anywhere.
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| Posted by: desert rat on 7/29/2003 |
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I love the scenery of this ride. Nothing like being on top of the world. However, it's really only half a ride because it's impossible to ride up most of the exposed uphill due to loose soil and rocks on a steep pitch. If you don't mind pushing your bike, you'll have fun. If you hate to walk, forget this ride. Bring LOTS of water and sunscreen.
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| Posted by: lisamarie on 12/27/2002 |
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This one's a goodie. Some serious climbing and treacherous rocks in some places, but you will be rewarded for your efforts! Technical and a ton of fun... a worthy ride that's worth the trip. FABULOUS views along the ridgeline too!
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| Posted by: mr. manners on 12/17/2002 |
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This ride is best in a cw direction. You will have a 2 mile hike from bear creek up to Miller Peak in exchange for longer downhills. I count only 17 miles for the loop, but it is difficult and takes 4 to 5 hours for good riders. Be careful when you're on Miller Peak, you will be a long way from the neares road and on some unforgiving trail.
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