Hailstone Butte, Hwy 532 (gravel)
Route Details: This loop follows mostly gravel backroads up and over Hailstone Butte which gives unparalleled views of the gorgeous foothills and valleys lying east of the summit. After you have taken in your fill from the pass you drop down the west side of the nearby peaks until you reach Highway 40 which will return you to the pavement and eventually back to Longview.
Leaving Longview this loop is best done clockwise heading south first until you reach the gravel road, Highway 532 (closed Dec 1 to April 30), just at the north end of Chain Lakes Reservoir. Once on this road you will pass a bunch of random camping spots and wind your way farther west into the foothills. As the elevation increases the road deteriorates a bit so be on the watch for washboard, fallen rocks and other road hazards including oncoming traffic on blind corners. The last few kms of bumpy road are totally worth it once you reach the summit of the pass. At the pass there is a turn out on the left that makes for some great pictures and a truly awe inspiring view. The road is better on the west side of the pass and quickly leads you down into the valley where you will take a right turn onto Highway 40 (Forestry Trunk Road). Just over 30 kms north on highway 4 brings you to the Highwood Junction where you could choose to continue over Highwood Pass (see Highwood Pass route for details) on Highway 40 or return to Longview via Highway 541. Either options make for a great day out in some of the most gorgeous country this area has to offer.
Highlights: Hailstone Butte, Highwood River
Local Businesses: Mr. Food (Diamond Valley), Hard Knox Brewing (Diamond Valley), Twin Cities Saloon (Longview)
KM/Hours of Riding: 147km, 2 hours of riding
