Replying to Best Mountain Biking in Washington State?

I'm heading out to Washington to check out some colleges (Whitman, U of Puget Sound, U of Washington- Seattle, Western Washington U) and am hoping to get some mountain biking in as well. What are the best mountain bike trails within a few hours of any of these schools? I would classify myself as intermediate. Also if you have any schools you think I should check out that I didn't mention feel free to let me know.
Thanks Newschoolers!