First Thru Rider of Washington’s Colemonti Crossing: Dustin Raisanen
“I got to spend 17 days in the wilderness on my bike. Life can’t get much better than that. Every sunrise and sunset, some really incredible descents at last light. But mostly the kindness along the way, and all of the wonderful conversations with strangers was the most rewarding part of my ride."
Dustin has been a regular over the past few seasons at our stewardship campouts in the Gifford Pinchot, not only is he a hard worker and hard rider, he’s incredibly humble about it all. One of the most genuine folks you’ll find yourself sharing some shade and gummy bears with. And if you’re curious how far he rode, how fast, or how much elevation he gained—that remains a mystery—Dustin didn’t carry a tracker or use Strava on his ride. Somewhere “around 7,000’ of climbing each day” is his best guess.
Who are you and where do you call home? What’s your favorite backcountry trail close to home?
My name is Dustin and I’m currently residing in the Columbia river gorge. I’ve been really enjoying the buck creek trail system behind my house. So nice to ride straight from the house and access so many trails.
What drew you to Orogenesis?
Originally, the challenge. But the community behind the development of this trail is incredible. I can’t say enough how grateful I am to have met all the amazing people involved in making this trail a reality.
What section did you ride? Had you ever ridden in the area before?
I rode the Washington section. I had ridden some of the trails but most were unfamiliar.
How many miles/days was your trip and how many people were in your group?
I think I ended up riding 700 something miles, I’m not sure! From start to finish was 17 days. This trip was a solo endeavor, although Gabe joined me for a day up north.
What was the most rewarding or profound part of your trip?
Great question, I got to spend 17 days in the wilderness on my bike. Life can’t get much better than that. Every sunrise and sunset, some really incredible descents at last light. But mostly the kindness along the way, and all of the wonderful conversations with strangers.
What was the most challenging part of your trip?
The elevation and eating enough calories to sustain the energy to go forward!
Would you recommend this ride to other folks? Anything you’d change?
Absolutely, if somebody is looking to ride a really remote and beautiful section of trail. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Any advice for other folks wanting to get into bikepacking or backcountry mountain biking?
I think this goes with any new hobby. Just start! Buy what you can afford and go ride. We are lucky to have an abundance of trails here in the Pacific Northwest. Many of them being approachable at any skill level.
What section of Orogenesis do you want to ride next? Why?
I would love to continue south on orogenesis. Knowing that Oregon has 40,000 feet less in elevation has me stoked!
Dustin’s favorite section of Colemonti Crossing is no surprise—it’s where he lives: the Gifford Pinchot National Forest’s Loowit Tier. This is also the tier that we plan on launching in April. Get ready for 188 miles and 32,000’ of elevation gain/loss through some of the most fairy tail forests of mossy giants, private aquamarine swimming holes and the surreal moonscape of the St Helens blast zone on the Plains of Abraham. Stay tuned to our newsletter for the launch and more info on a party and group ride in Packwood, WA.
