The best road cycling routes around North Fort Lewis

There are nearly 10 road cycling routes detailed on komoot for the North Fort Lewis area, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

The region offers diverse landscapes, including scenic waterfront paths along Puget Sound with views of the Olympic Mountains, routes through dense forests and river valleys, and glimpses of the majestic Mount Rainier. You'll also find rides around picturesque lakes and through open meadows.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Garry Oaks Park – Sequalitchew Creek Trailhead loop from Pierce College - Fort Steilacoom is an easy 21.6-mile path through parkland. The Cushman Trail in Gig Harbor is also known for its family-friendly paved paths. For more family-friendly options, you can explore resources like Visit Pierce County's guide to family-friendly bike trails.

Many routes offer stunning views. The Sunnyside Beach Park – Grandview Trail loop from DuPont provides views of the local coastline. Routes along Point Defiance Park and Ruston Way offer panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The Foothills Trail near Orting also provides unobstructed views of Mount Rainier.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. Examples include the Sunnyside Beach Park – Grandview Trail loop from DuPont and the Garry Oaks Park – Sequalitchew Creek Trailhead loop from Pierce College - Fort Steilacoom. The 'Five Mile Drive Loop' within Point Defiance Park also offers paved loops.

For those seeking longer rides, the Sunnyside Beach Park – Grandview Trail loop from DuPont is a moderate 27.8-mile route with significant elevation gain. Another option is the Cushman Powerline Trail – Tacoma Narrows Bridge loop from Steilacoom, which is 25.8 miles and also features notable elevation changes.

You can discover several interesting spots. Along some routes, you might pass by Waughop Lake in Fort Steilacoom Park, American Lake Park, or Sunnyside Beach Park. The Sequalitchew Creek Trailhead is also a notable point of interest.

Yes, the Cushman Powerline Trail – Tacoma Narrows Bridge loop from University Place is a great example, leading through a mix of urban and natural environments, offering varied scenery during your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to forested areas, and the stunning views of distant mountains and Puget Sound.

The Dupont-Steilacoom Road is noted for having unrestricted access for cyclists, a 45 mph speed limit, and a nice shoulder for much of its length, making it a pleasant area for cycling with scenic views.

Absolutely. Many routes in the North Fort Lewis area offer a good balance. For example, the Garry Oaks Park – Sequalitchew Creek Trailhead loop includes a moderate climb, while other trails like the Foothills Trail feature gentle climbs and newly added sections, providing varied terrain for your ride.