The air in Port Gamble was thick with the scent of damp earth and Douglas fir, a world away from the relentless gray of the Seattle sprawl just across the Puget Sound. It felt like stepping into another century, the quiet broken only by the chirping of unseen birds and the distant thrum of something powerful approaching. That something was a 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, a machine that looked perfectly at home amidst the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
I’d hitched a ride with Josh from Haselwood Auto Group, a genial host and a man clearly enthusiastic about marrying horsepower with the great outdoors. As he expertly navigated the winding backroads leading to Port Gamble Heritage Park, he pointed out the Tacoma’s purposeful stance, the aggressive lines hinting at its inherent capability. "If you're an adventurer, if you're an off-roader, if you're a hiker, if you're a mountain biker, this is built for you," he’d declared, and watching the truck effortlessly absorb the uneven pavement, I was inclined to agree.
We weren't just here for a scenic drive, though. Our destination was the legendary network of mountain bike trails within Port Gamble Heritage Park, a sprawling 3,500-acre county treasure that, as Matt from Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance later explained, was preserved thanks to a forward-thinking deal in the early 2000s. Instead of more housing developments, this land became a vital recreational hub, boasting 170 acres of dedicated mountain bike trails and another 49 miles of multi-use paths.
Pulling into the gravel parking lot, the Tacoma’s robust skid plates, designed to protect vital undercarriage components from rocks and obstacles, seemed almost eager for a challenge. Josh highlighted the electronic locking rear differential, a feature crucial for tackling truly uneven terrain by ensuring both rear wheels spin at the same speed, maximizing traction when one might otherwise be left spinning uselessly in the air. He also demonstrated the impressive array of camera views, including a multi-terrain monitor that offers a near 360-degree perspective around the vehicle. For navigating tight trails or carefully picking a line over rocks, this technology felt like a genuine game-changer.
Meeting Matt, a passionate trail builder with Evergreen, it was clear this wasn’t just some haphazard collection of dirt paths. “This isn't just a really cool place to ride your bike,” he asserted, “This is the place in Washington to ride your bike right now.” He spoke of the park’s progressive nature, boasting everything from beginner-friendly green trails to pro-line jumps that would leave even seasoned riders breathless. It was a testament to the dedication of Evergreen and the support of Kitsap County Parks.
Later, we connected with Viv, representing the “mothership” of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she outlined the organization’s mission: to build, maintain, and protect mountain bike trails across Washington state. Evergreen’s impact extends far beyond just Port Gamble; their tireless work ensures access to quality trails for riders of all skill levels. And as Viv emphasized, it’s not just about bikes. Hikers, trail runners, and horseback riders benefit from their efforts on the multi-use trails.
Getting involved with Evergreen, both Matt and Viv stressed, is crucial. Membership dollars directly fund trail maintenance and new projects. They also host regular volunteer work parties, or “dig days,” offering a hands-on opportunity to give back to the trails we enjoy. Beyond that, Evergreen’s robust education program offers clinics and camps for all ages, fostering a love for the sport and ensuring riders have the skills to enjoy the trails safely. They even host community events, many of them free, to encourage more people to get out and experience the thrill of mountain biking.
As the conversation flowed, the Tacoma sat patiently, a silent partner in our adventure. Its rugged interior, as Josh had described, felt functional and well-thought-out. The textured buttons for key off-road controls, the easily accessible drive mode selector offering Sport, Normal, and Eco settings, and the available auxiliary switches for adding aftermarket lights all spoke to a vehicle designed for more than just commuting. Even the little details, like the automatic up-and-down tailgate, hinted at a thoughtful approach to outdoor pursuits.
Josh, being a taller individual, noted the rear passenger space might be a bit tight for larger adults on long journeys, but he was clear on the Tacoma’s core demographic: the adventurer, the explorer, the mountain biker. The ample bed space, ready to accommodate bikes, camping gear, or whatever else the wilderness demands, coupled with its legendary off-road prowess, makes it an ideal companion for those who prefer dirt to asphalt.
Standing there, surrounded by the towering trees of Port Gamble, the energy of the Evergreen team palpable, and the capable stance of the Tacoma in my peripheral vision, the connection was clear. This wasn’t just a truck; it was a tool, an enabler for experiences like this. It was a way to access the wilder corners of our world, to trade the everyday for the exhilaration of a winding trail, the satisfaction of conquering a challenging climb, and the camaraderie of a community built around a shared love for the outdoors. And in places like Port Gamble, with the unwavering support of organizations like Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, that adventure is closer and more accessible than ever.
