The best cycling routes around Washington

Washington offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes. You can find over 35 routes, with options catering to all skill levels. Approximately 13 routes are rated as easy, 18 as moderate, and 7 as difficult, ensuring there's a suitable path for every cyclist.

Washington's touring cycling routes feature incredibly diverse terrain. You can experience everything from the rugged coastlines and dense rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Mountains and the arid eastern scablands. Routes often traverse open desert-like areas, follow scenic river valleys, or wind through forested hills, offering varied landscapes and elevation profiles.

Yes, Washington offers several challenging long-distance touring routes. For instance, the Sand Hollow State Park – Snow Canyon Road loop from Waddy's Corral is a difficult 67.7-mile (108.9 km) path with significant elevation changes. Other notable long-distance options include the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, which stretches over 250 miles, and the North Cascades Highway (State Route 20), known for its substantial elevation gains and remote mountain views.

Absolutely. Washington has many easy and family-friendly touring cycling routes. The Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle is a popular 19-mile paved urban trail, ideal for leisurely rides. The Snoqualmie Valley Trail offers a flat ride through farmland and forests, while the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail in Wenatchee provides a mostly flat, paved experience along the Columbia River. For a moderate option, consider the Sand Hollow loop, a 23.1-mile route with rolling terrain.

Washington's touring routes are rich with natural beauty and landmarks. You can encounter snow-capped mountains, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastlines. Specific highlights include Snow Canyon Scenic Road, Scout's Cave, and Sand Hollow State Park. The Columbia River Gorge offers stunning waterfalls and cliffs, while the Olympic Discovery Trail provides views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Washington are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples from our guide include the Quail Creek loop, a challenging 29.0-mile route, and the Airport loop, a moderate 19.0-mile trail. The San Juan Islands also offer picturesque loop routes connecting several islands.

The touring cycling routes in Washington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 16 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from arid plains to forested hills, and the variety of terrain that caters to different ability levels. The well-maintained trails and scenic views are often highlighted as key attractions.

The best time for touring cycling in Washington largely depends on the region and desired experience. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. For mountain passes like the North Cascades Highway, summer (late June to early October) is ideal after snow removal. Coastal and urban trails are often accessible year-round, though rain is more common in cooler months. September and early October are particularly good for Mount Rainier National Park, with lighter traffic and excellent views.

Yes, Washington offers excellent opportunities for car-free cycling. Many multi-use trails, often built on former railway lines, provide dedicated paths away from vehicle traffic. The Burke-Gilman Trail, Snoqualmie Valley Trail, and Olympic Discovery Trail are prime examples. Additionally, certain park roads, like the Westside Road in Mount Rainier National Park, are mostly closed to vehicles but open to bicycles, offering unique car-free experiences. The North Cascades Highway also offers car-free riding in the spring after snow removal but before it fully opens to vehicles.

Public transport access varies by route. Urban trails like Seattle's Burke-Gilman Trail are well-connected to public transit networks. For routes further afield, planning is essential. Some areas, particularly around National Parks, may have limited public transport options, requiring personal vehicle use or shuttle services to reach trailheads. Always check local transit schedules and bike-on-bus/train policies before planning your trip.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Washington pass by or are close to interesting attractions. For example, the Bloomington Park – Virgin River Trail loop from Sienna Hills is near the Virgin River Trail. Other highlights include Quail Creek State Park Entrance and Paradise Canyon Arch. The Snoqualmie Valley Trail passes by Snoqualmie Falls, and the Olympic Discovery Trail offers access to various coastal towns and natural features of the Olympic Peninsula.