Orogenesis: Ride the Edge of the Cascades
White Salmon just became the new gateway to one of the most exciting mountain biking routes in North America. Orogenesis – ride the edge of the cascades: Loowit Tier Trail Now Open—and You Can Help Shape It!
The Loowit Tier, a newly unveiled 180+ mile bikepacking route that weaves through the southern Cascades—from Packwood to the Columbia River Gorge—is officially open for adventure. This is more than just another trail. It’s the Washington debut of Orogenesis, a 5,000-mile dirt route in the making that stretches from British Columbia to Baja. And it runs right through our backyard.
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding through deep forest, past volcanic landscapes, and cooling off in remote glacier-fed swimming holes, this is your summer.
But the best part? You can help make it happen.
Volunteer Weekend: Help Open the Final Stretch
Join Orogenesis and the Northwest Trail Alliance June 21–22 for a hands-on trail restoration weekend deep in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The focus: reopening the long-abandoned Tillicum Trail, one of the last unridable sections of the Loowit Tier. Once this segment is cleared, the full route will be open to the public for the first time ever.
Whether you’re a chainsaw-certified sawyer or just down to move some brush, there’s a role for you. No experience needed. Bring your work gloves, good vibes, and maybe a tent—volunteers are welcome to camp out for the weekend and pitch in both days.
What to Know:
- Location: Near Trout Lake, WA (Map provided upon sign-up)
- Dates: Saturday & Sunday, June 21–22, 2025
- Time: 8:00 AM Saturday to 4:00 PM Sunday
- Jobs: Sawyers, swampers, brushers, dirt movers — all welcome!
This is a chance to be part of something bigger—a historic trail project and a vibrant community of riders and trail builders bringing lost paths back to life.
A Trail Like No Other
The Loowit Tier is not for the casual cruiser. With over 33,000 feet of climbing, it’ll test your legs and your gear. But the payoff? Sweeping views from alpine ridges, untouched backcountry campsites, and swimming holes that feel like your own secret paradise.
Starting or ending right here in White Salmon, the Loowit Tier is a new kind of adventure route. It’s part ride, part wilderness experience, and 100% unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning your next bikepacking trip or want to roll up your sleeves and help build the trail, this is your moment. The Loowit Tier starts now—and it starts here.
Sign up to volunteer and learn more at NWTA or Orogenesis Collective. Let’s get this trail ride-ready, together.
