Trail Overview
Tinkham Road (NF-55) is an easy, scenic gravel detour parallel to Interstate 90 in Washington, ideal for beginners, SUVs, and high-clearance vehicles looking for a quick escape into the forest. Spanning approximately 5.8 miles, this route sits at elevations ranging from about 1,470 to 1,885 feet, weaving through dense woodland with multiple access points from the highway on both the east and west ends. The convenience of hopping back onto the interstate makes it an excellent option for travelers wanting a brief off-pavement experience without committing to a full day on the trail. The road features a relatively flat profile with minimal elevation gain, offering consistent and manageable driving conditions for standard four-wheel-drive vehicles and SUVs.
Though rated as an easy level 2 trail, drivers should be prepared for numerous deep, rounded potholes scattered along the unpaved surface, which are best navigated with high-clearance vehicles to avoid scraping. The route is not maintained during the winter season, meaning snow and ice will significantly limit access during the colder months. Along the way, numerous pull-off camping areas offer opportunities to set up camp in a serene forested setting close to the highway. Signage indicates that only licensed drivers and highway-legal vehicles are permitted on this national forest road, so SxSs and other non-street-legal off-highway vehicles should be left on the trailer.
