Your little daredevil loves a good bike ride around Seattle as much as the next kiddo. But for days where adventure is what your pedal head is craving, it doesn’t get better than these nearby pump tracks that double as kid-powered roller coasters. So grab your helmet and protective gear, it’s time to ride!
Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park - Issaquah
There’s a reason Duthie Hill is everyone’s go-to spot for loops, turns and berms. It’s the ride of a lifetime where kids of all ages can explore the single track trails that double as kid-powered roller coasters or hang in the hub where they’ll find pump track staples like jumps, berms and rails. Bring a snack and take a break in the picnic shelter to refuel.
Good to know: If biking with your crew sounds like a great way to celebrate, check out the beginner clinics on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day at Duthie Hill.
26300 S.E. Issaquah-Fall City Rd.
Issaquah, WA
Online: kingcounty.gov
Redmond Bike Park – Redmond
If you’ve got a beginning biker, this is a great place to start. With a green pump track route and a mountain bike path, kids of all ages can build skills here. It’s hard to go wrong with a spot that named the beginning pump track “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop.” That’s the way to ride on the Eastside.
9916 171st Ave. S.E.
Redmond, WA
Online: redmond.gov
North SeaTac Park – SeaTac
This south end spot is all about racing. Whether you bring your kids to check out the raucous rolling BMX hills or pack your radio-controlled cars (they’ve got both paved and dirt RC race tracks), this spot will satiate your kiddo’s need for speed. Families can also enjoy the playground, walking trails and many picnic benches scattered around the park.
Good to know: The park is closed to the public during North SeaTac BMX races (starting May 8). Be sure to check the schedule before heading out or bring the kids to get inspired then test out the track yourself.
136th St. & 20th Ave. S.
SeaTac, WA
Online: seatacbmx.org
Torguson - North Bend
If a park with a view, and lots of other things to do is on your list, check out Torguson in North Bend. At the base of Mt. Si, there’s no better place to bring your bikes on a sunny summer day. In addition to the challenging pump track, kids can have a blast at the skate park, test their monkey skills on the climbing tower and then finish the day burning up that last bit of energy at the playground.
Good to know: Littles who are still learning can ride safely on the nearby striders track.
760 E. North Bend Way
North Bend, WA
Online: siviewpark.org
Swan Creek - Tacoma
The Lister Uplands bike park above the Swan Creek Trail in Tacoma is in the process of getting a facelift. While families can fly around loops on the pump track now, they’ll be able to do a lot more once everything is complete at the end of the year. Come back to enjoy the mountain bike trails for a longer adventure, and be sure to bring Fido because a new dog park is in the works too.
Good to know: The Swan Creek Trail (below the Lister Uplands) is a great place to spot salmon when they’re spawning.
42nd St. & Roosevelt Ave.
Tacoma, WA
Online: metroparkstacoma.org
Fisher Creek Bike Park - Snoqualmie
If you like your bike park experience with a side of epic playground, Fisher Creek is for you. Bring the bikes to take a few laps, then change things up with time on the playground. It’s got epic slides, a funky climbing sphere and a rock wall that’ll challenge your little adventurer. Don’t forget to stop by the falls when you’re there.
7805 Fischer Ave. S.E.
Snoqualmie, WA
Online: ci.snoqualmie.wa.us
Worth the Drive (or Ferry Ride)
Poulsbo Pump Track - Poulsbo
If you’re looking for a brand spanking new pump track, it doesn’t get fresher than the Poulsbo Pump Track. This relatively new park just got a redesign to improve flow and ensure riders of all skill levels can ride around its quick turns and wicked hills, thanks to the generosity of local businesses like Agate Asphalt. Plan your Poulsbo day trip any time after the May 4 re-opening to check out the fantastic progressions (they’ve got everything from greens to double blacks here). Fair warning, most parents aren’t content just watching, so bring your bikes to join in the fun.
Good to know: The annual, family-friendly Pumpaplooza celebration is set to take place in June 2021. The group’s Facebook page will have all the details once things are finalized.
20523 Little Valley Rd. N.E.
Poulsbo, WA
Online: facebook.com/poulsbopumptrack/
Dockton Forest Track – Vashon Island
Hop on the ferry for a Vashon Island adventure! The mountain bike trails of Dockton Forest are calling. Just across from Quartermaster Harbor, you’ll find the forested fun park that pieces together nearly three miles of fat tire-worthy trails. Check out the green trails for beginner riders. The Gravel Grinder is a good beginning loop that riders of all ages can handle. More experienced riders can find daring jumps and berms on quirky trails like Flying Monkey and Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde.
Good to know: The park’s playground is currently under construction.
S.W. 260th St.
Vashon Island, WA
Online: kingcounty.gov
Leavenworth Pump Track - Leavenworth
The next time you and your little pedalheads take to the mountains, stop by Enchantment Park in Leavenworth to ride the sweet pump track there. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, it’s a bit different than other tracks because it’s asphalt-covered. That means easy riding for scooters and road bikes that don’t sport the fat tire. While you’re there be sure to take in the sights in town and visit the year-round reindeer farm too.
300 Enchantment Park Way
Leavenworth, WA
Online: leavenworth.org
360 Trails – Gig Harbor
A favorite of local riders, this maze of forested trails outside Gig Harbor has something for everyone. The Merry-Go-Round pump track trail is just over the creek and it provides lots of berms and turns that everyone can enjoy. The back of the park is where you’ll find jump lines and drop lines that aren’t for the faint of heart. Pack a lunch to enjoy by the stream after you’re done. And don’t forget to watch out for wildlife along these rural trails.
Online: keypenparks.com
Good to know: If you’ve got a kiddo who wants to improve their mountain bike skills, check out The Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. This non-profit offers classes, camps and workshops for riders ages 8 & up.
—Allison Sutcliffe
feature image: City of Redmond
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