Washougal is far and away the most scenic venue on the Pro Motocross calendar. Nestled amongst the trees as the Washougal River winds south, it’s nearly impossible to not be speechless on one’s first visit. That wonder and awe is replaced by head scratching confusion as soon as riders hit the track, though. What appears as rich, loamy dirt is much more slippery than what meets the eye. A steadily firming process leads to less and less traction and riders must exchange early aggression for enduring finesse. That’s the riddle that is Washougal. It looks amazing, but the tricky dirt, the tree canopy inducing shadows, and the brutal roost climbing Horsepower Hill make Washougal a fickle flame.

While many of the recent rounds have offered softer dirt, riders will likely go back to a more Hangtown type setting for Washougal. It will be interesting this year, though, with rumors that a lot of sand has been dropped onto the soil. That could impact things for awhile, but the Washougal base will remain. Likely, that means the scoop tire will stay inside the hauler and suspension will be softened up. Some may lean towards a more turning-centric ergonomic setup versus a better handling, longer wheelbase look. It won’t be as rough as a track like RedBud which offers opportunity for better turning in a low traction environment. Like most things, riders will try to find balance and compromise. The key is not going too far but making sure to lean into what the track rewards.

Washougal’ start is one of the most important of the season. With a track that races narrow, passing will be a challenge all afternoon. Getting a good start and putting in quick laps early makes life much easier. Riders like Justin Cooper have found success here as first lap positioning pays big dividends. Where a track like Southwick offers huge chunks of time late in the moto, Washougal will offer closer laptimes throughout. If you ever hear a rider say they are simply trying to “hit their marks”, a slippery track like Washougal fits the bill. This track has limits and riders will attempt to sit on, not over, that limit.