The best cycling routes in Fort Worden State Park

Port Townsend is the perfect seaport for a full resupply for hikers heading into the Olympic Peninsula. Visitors can explore historic sites like Fort Worden State Park, the Jefferson County Courthouse, and the Rothschild House, participate in the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival and the Rhododendron Festival, and visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the Jefferson Museum of Art and History.

John Pope Marine Park also goes by the name Marine Park and is 1.3 acres in size, right on the water. It's got open lawns, picnic areas, restrooms, and playgrounds.

Uncover military history at Fort Flagler Historical State Park on Marrowstone Island's northern tip. This coastal defense fort, more than a century old, is part of the Puget Sound's defensive network, along with Fort Worden and Fort Casey. It's a must-visit for those keen on military, armament, and maritime history. Built in the late 1890s, it served during several wars and now houses a military museum in the old Quarter Master's Store House.

This park in the middle of the city offers a unique experience with a valuable habitat of over 150 species of birds who pass through here. Several walking and bicycle trails are located in the southern portion of the park, as there is currently no route looping around the lagoon. The paths provide access between the east and west sides of Port Townsend, making it a popular thoroughfare among locals.

This park is lovely, complete with a nice beach offering views of Whidbey Island in the distance to the east across Admiralty Inlet, the entrance to Puget Sound. On a clear day, you can see Mount Baker. It is small, quiet, and not a popular option for large gatherings, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy a short morning or evening run.

This historical park allows you to step back in time while enjoying a peaceful run through the grounds. Fort Flagler was built in the late 1890s and was fully operational during World War I, World War II and the Korean War. There are multiple trail options, all surrounded by 19,100 feet of salty shoreline to appreciate. There are stunning views of Mount Baker in the distance, Juan de Fuca to the north, Whidbey Island to the east and the Olympic Peninsula to the west. You will encounter historic structures along the route, a museum, a campground and restrooms.

At this junction, you can hop on or off the Larry Scott Trail. If you're coming from Port Townsend, you can either turn around and head back or take a left on South Discovery Road, which will lead you to State Road 20 and an alternative route to Port Townsend. Additionally, this is where the Larry Scott Memorial Trail transitions into the Olympic Discovery Trail. To continue on the Olympic Discovery Trail, turn left onto South Discovery Road and then right onto the Olympic Highway. If you would like to head towards Beckette Point make a left on South Discovery Road.

Indian Island, historically linked to the mainland before the Port Townsend Ship Canal, serves as home to the Indian Island Naval Reserve. This naval facility spans the entire island, with a strict no-civilian residence policy. Indian Island plays a vital role in the U.S. Navy's operations. Combat ships and Military Sealift Command vessels frequently visit the island's dock.