The Historic Maryhill Loops Road
Good roads are more than my hobby, they are my religion.
—Sam Hill
Constructed from 1909 to 1913 by Samuel Hill (1857–1931), founder of Maryhill Museum of Art, Maryhill Loops Road is located off Washington Scenic Route 14 just east of U.S. 97. As the first macadam asphalt-paved road in the Pacific Northwest, it served as the only road between the Columbia River and Goldendale, Washington prior to the construction of U.S. 97. The historic Maryhill Loops was a part of a larger road that encompassed several miles over which seven different experimental roads were constructed.
The road itself ascends 850 feet in a series of curves with a gradient of ascent at 5%. In 1998, a 3.6 mile section of the road was completely refurbished and received the Outstanding Project of Historical Significance Award from the American Public Works Association, Washington State Chapter. It consists of 25 curves, 8 of which are hairpins.
(Click within box for an enlarged view.)
Today, this road is open tothe public for non-motorized use from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. most days and admission is free. Occasionally it may be closed to the public for exclusive use by private groups.
Use of the Maryhill Loops Road is at the user’s risk (Washington State Law, RCW 4.24.210). Maryhill Museum of Art assumes no liability. The road is steep, has blind corners, switchbacks, drop-offs and gates. Users should be aware that wildlife, domestic animals and people may be on or near the road.
The Maryhill Loops Road is available on a rental basis for special events, including tours by car and motorcycle clubs, as well as for bicycle, skateboard and car races. View NY Time video report of the 2010 downhill skateboard event. It is also used by the television and movie industries. For information about renting the road for exclusive events, contact the museum at (509) 773-3733 or email: maryhill@maryhillmuseum.org.
Maryhill Loops Hillclimb
event, during the annual Car is King weekend.Funding for the restoration of Maryhill Loops Road was provided by the Washington State Good Roads and Transportation Association; City of Goldendale; Goldendale Chamber of Commerce; and the Maryhill Community Council. Major support was provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation Enhance Program through the Intermodial Surface Transportation Efficiency Act through the Washington State Department of Transportation and the Klickitat County Road Department.
