Is Blanchard State Forest rideable today?
Yes. The live verdict is PRIME, rideable now. No measurable rain in the past week.
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Soil and terrain at Blanchard State Forest
Blanchard State Forest is a mountain bike trail network in Bellingham, WA. The soil is rocky loam and drains fast. Heavy tree cover can slow drying after rain. The terrain averages a 2.9° slope at 2,159 ft and mainly faces SSE. Its gentle slopes drain slowly, so low spots can stay soft after rain.
How these factors affect drying
SoilRocky loam
About 39% of this ground is rock fragments, so water runs through it faster than the soil type alone suggests. It dries quicker than plain loam.
CanopyDense 81%
Heavy tree cover shades the soil and blocks wind, so these trails dry slowly and can hold morning damp even after dry days.
TerrainHolds water
Water tends to pool and linger here rather than running off, so the surface can stay damp well after the weather clears.
FAQ
Can you ride Blanchard State Forest right now?
The current estimate for Blanchard State Forest is PRIME: rideable now. No significant rain in the forecast. No measurable rain in the past week.
Is Blanchard State Forest muddy right now?
Loam currently estimates dry conditions (PRIME). About 39% of the ground here is rock, so it drains faster than its soil type alone suggests. No measurable rain in the past week.
What is the soil and trail surface like at Blanchard State Forest?
Blanchard State Forest sits on rocky loam soil that drains fast. About 39% of this ground is rock fragments, so water runs through it faster than the soil type alone suggests. It dries quicker than plain loam.
How long does Blanchard State Forest take to dry after rain?
Blanchard State Forest drains quicker than its soil type suggests, since about 39% of the ground is rock fragments. Its terrain holds water in low spots, which slows it. Heavy tree cover slows drying further.
Can you ride Blanchard State Forest after rain?
The rocky soil here drains quickly, but softer sections may need more time. Wait until the surface is firm. Check the current estimate before heading out, and turn back if your tires leave ruts.
Does Blanchard State Forest get snow in winter?
Yes. At 2,159 ft, Blanchard State Forest typically sees winter snow and freeze-thaw that can pause riding. Loam flags a FROZEN state when the ground is snow-covered or frozen, then clears it as things thaw and dry.
What's the terrain and elevation like at Blanchard State Forest?
Blanchard State Forest sits at roughly 2,159 feet, faces mostly SSE, and averages a 2.9° grade with about 81% tree cover. It is quicker to dry where it faces south, and the gentle terrain leaves low spots soft after storms.
When is the best time of year to ride Blanchard State Forest?
Snow can limit riding at Blanchard State Forest in winter, at around 2,159 feet. Spring snowmelt and fall freezes can also affect conditions. Its sunny aspect helps it come back fast after storms. Check the current conditions before planning a ride.
Network profile
Network profile
- Soil
- Rocky loamdrains fast
- Drainage
- Holds waterdries slowly
- Tree cover
- 81%Dense
- Elevation
- 2,159 ft
- Average grade
- 2.9°
- Predominant aspect
- SSE-facing