The list of outdoor activities Washington has to offer is seemingly endless. From hiking to kayaking to our zip line adventures, there’s a good reason many of us prefer to be outside. But did you know you can pedal the historic Simpson Logging Company Railway in a unique rail biking adventure? Allow us to introduce you to Vance Creek Railriders in Shelton. It’s one of the best outdoor activities in Washington state and it belongs on your bucket list.

Vance Creek Railriders is based out of Shelton and follows the Simpson Logging Company Railroad.
Vance Creek Railriders / Facebook
The Simpson Logging Company maintained an extensive network of 80 miles of track that was used to haul timber out of the surrounding mountains and to the mills in Shelton. These rail lines were used continuously for 120 years and became the last privately owned logging railroad in operation in the continental U.S.
The company is operated by Doug and Cynthia Newman, who are longtime friends with the company founders.
Ginny / TripAdvisor
They have a lot of pride in the business, and it shows.
The unique Railrider quadricycles have four wheels that ride the rails, four adjustable seats, and pedals that propel you along at you speed of choice.
Vance Creek Railriders / Facebook
Each Railrider has two cup holders, and they are equipped to buckle in young children in carseats.

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Your journey takes you from the historic Camp 1 to the town of Shelton, which typically takes around two hours.
rail biking
Vance Creek Railriders/Google
This adventure will make you fall in love with the Pacific Northwest all over again.
Vance Creek Railriders / Facebook
Taking in the sights, smells, and quiet sounds of this rural area is so perfectly peaceful.
Vance Creek Railriders is open from May - October, and it's a great summertime activity.
Paul S / TripAdvisor
Reservations can be made online, and at $34 per person ($22 for children under 12) it's a fairly affordable way to spend a few hours.

Have you ever pedaled down a historic railway? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments below. Be sure to visit the Vance Creek Railriders website to make a reservation for this truly unique experience before fall. Spots fill up fast, so we recommend that you make your reservations in advance for the 2024 season. 

And if you’re searching for more adventure, here are some top-rated attractions in Washington that we recommend.

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More to Explore

Outdoor Activities In Washington State

Melanie J. | January 26, 2024

What are the best hiking trails in Washington state?

If rail biking is not your thing and you prefer to explore on foot, here are some of the best hiking trails in Washington that you will enjoy:

  • Rattlesnake Ledge Trailhead, North Bend
  • Skyline Trail Loop, Paradise
  • Lake Twenty-Two Trailhead, Granite Falls
  • Marymere Falls Trailhead, Port Angeles
  • Sol Duc Falls Trail, Joyce
  • Hall of Mosses Trailhead, Forks
  • Mount Rainier via Emmons Glacier, Greenwater
  • West McMillan Spire via Goodell Creek Trail, Marblemount
  • Snow Lake Trail, Snoqualmie Pass
  • Iceberg Point Trail, Lopez Island
  • Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail, Spokane
  • Upper Lodge to Artist Point Trail, Maple Falls

Read our previous article telling you more about these hiking trails in Washington.

What are some of the best state parks in Washington to explore?

If you love outdoor activities, these are the best state parks in Washington that are filled with adventure:

  • Pearrygin Lake State Park, Winthrop
  • Joemma Beach State Park, Longbranch
  • Curlew Lake State Park, Republic
  • Steamboat Rock State Park, Electric City
  • Ike Kinswa State Park, Silver Creek
  • Flaming Geyser State Park, Auburn
  • Lake Wenatchee State Park, Leavenworth
  • Dosewallips State Park, Brinnon
  • Conconully State Park, Conconully
  • Beacon Rock State Park, Stevenson
  • Potlatch State Park, Shelton
  • Wallace Falls State Park, Goldbar
  • Peshastin Pinnacles State Park, Cashmere
  • Saint Edward State Park, Kenmore

Check out our previous article telling you more about the best state parks in Washington that are great for the outdoor adventurer. 

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Featured Addresses
Vance Creek Railriders, 421 W Hanks Lake Rd, Shelton, WA 98584, USA