U.S. Bicycle Route 87 in Washington

U.S. Bicycle Route 87 in Washington cycling route

U.S. Bicycle Route 87 in Washington is a 71.4 km asphalt point-to-point ride with 277 m of elevation gain. That profile tells you most of what matters before you roll out: this is not a climb-hunting route, and there are no notable climbs listed in the available route data. The challenge is more about keeping the ride clean, steady, and well-managed than surviving a decisive uphill section.

Because the elevation gain is modest for the distance, the route should reward consistent pacing. Riders who treat it like an endurance ride rather than a series of efforts will likely get the best experience. The terrain profile suggests fewer forced intensity spikes, which makes it a good candidate for aerobic work, group riding discipline, or a controlled point-to-point day where the goal is smooth execution rather than chasing short climbs.

Terrain and ride character

The surface is listed as asphalt, so the route is suited to a road bike or an endurance setup. With no listed notable climbs, expect the ride to feel rolling or gently varied rather than mountainous. That does not mean it is automatically easy. A 71.4 km point-to-point ride still asks for attention to pacing, fueling, and wind exposure if conditions turn against you.

The low climbing load shifts the tactical problem. Instead of saving matches for a major ascent, focus on avoiding unnecessary surges. Holding a sustainable endurance effort, especially if you pace by /glossary/ftp, will keep the ride from becoming harder than the profile suggests.

Practical notes

• Plan transport carefully. This is not a loop, so the finish will not bring you back to the start.
• Treat it as a point-to-point endurance ride, not a climb-specific session.
• Use tires and equipment appropriate for asphalt.
• Fuel for the full 71.4 km rather than assuming the modest elevation gain makes nutrition less important.
• If riding with a group, keep rotations steady. On a route without major climbs, pacing mistakes often come from surges on flatter terrain rather than terrain itself.

Who this route suits

U.S. Bicycle Route 87 in Washington is best for riders who want an asphalt route with manageable climbing and a clear point-to-point structure. It is a useful endurance day, a controlled training ride, or a route for cyclists who prefer distance and rhythm over repeated climbing pressure. The route profile is straightforward, but that is exactly why execution matters: ride it smoothly, solve the logistics before the start, and let the distance do the work.