Trail Overview
Allen Mountain Trail #269 is a steep, narrow singletrack built for experienced dirt bike riders looking for a true Cascade challenge south of Ashford, WA. With extreme exposure, technical switchbacks, and classic Pacific Northwest obstacles, it's one of the more demanding motorcycle trails in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
This advanced 3.2-mile route begins at the east end with a climb up a hillside that quickly narrows into a tight, heavily exposed bench cut into the slope, opening onto a striking view of Mount Rainier. A steep drop-off runs alongside the trail here, and a mistake in this section carries high consequences. The tread itself starts smooth and obstacle-free, but the severe exposure continues as the trail sidehills its way across the hillside. Riders will also encounter a partially cut log in one of the narrow sections, trimmed just short of handlebar width, forcing a lean out over the exposed slope to clear it.
From there, the trail turns uphill into a demanding series of 15-plus switchbacks. These range from gradual and rideable to extremely tight and technical, with several requiring multiple-point turns and expert pivot skills. Many are steep and narrow, with embedded roots or large rock obstacles tucked into the inside corners - the last few switchbacks of the climb are typically the most difficult. After topping out, riders face a comparably challenging descent through another set of tight switchbacks before the trail levels out.
Difficulty
This is an advanced trail due to over 20 technical switchbacks throughout the route that will require expert-level skill with pivot turns. There is severe exposure throughout the entire route as well that should be treated with extreme caution and is not advised for beginner riders. Expect small rock and root obstacles throughout the route; however, the main difficulty lies in the steep, tight switchbacks. This trail will be difficult in either direction due to the switchbacks both up and down.
