The best cycling routes in Bridle Trails State Park

No, touring cycling is not permitted on the unpaved trails within Bridle Trails State Park itself. These trails are primarily designated for horseback riding and hiking. However, the park serves as a gateway to cycling-friendly routes outside its immediate boundaries.

While cycling is restricted within the park, you can access the Bridle Crest Trail, a 2-mile soft-surface path that connects the park to Marymoor Park and the Sammamish River Trail. This network offers various routes through Redmond, Bellevue, and Kirkland, including mostly paved surfaces suitable for touring cyclists.

There are over 100 touring cycling routes available in the Bridle Trails State Park area, catering to various skill levels. This includes approximately 45 easy routes, 54 moderate routes, and 20 more challenging options.

Yes, there are many easy routes suitable for families. A popular option is the Cross Kirkland Corridor – Bridle Trails State Park loop from Kirkland, an easy 7.7-mile trail. Another great choice is the Cross Kirkland Corridor loop from Bridle Trails State Park, an easy 9.0-mile path that offers a pleasant ride through suburban areas with access to green spaces.

For longer rides, consider the Lake Washington Loop: I-90 to SR 520, a moderate 20.9-mile trail. Another moderate option is the 520 Bridge View Park – Elliott Bay Trail loop from Spring District, which covers about 28.9 miles.

The routes in the Bridle Trails State Park area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. Reviewers often praise the interconnected trails, the mix of soft-surface and paved routes, and the serene forested environments found along the periphery.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging ride, the area offers about 20 difficult routes. One such option is the Lakeview Park Hill – Meydenbauer Beach Park loop from Spring District, which spans over 36 miles and includes significant elevation changes.

The routes primarily feature lowland forests with Douglas firs and Western hemlocks, offering a serene environment. As you venture further, you'll encounter varied urban and natural landscapes, including connections to other parks and trails like the Sammamish River Trail.

While the park itself has parking, for cycling access to the Bridle Crest Trail and other interconnected routes, you'll find various parking options in nearby Redmond, Bellevue, and Kirkland, often associated with the trailheads or parks that connect to the wider cycling network.

Although cycling is restricted, Bridle Trails State Park offers picnic areas with tables, restrooms, water fountains, and barbecue pits. It's also renowned for its equestrian facilities and extensive unpaved trails for hiking and nature observation.

Many multi-use trails in the surrounding areas, such as the Bridle Crest Trail and Sammamish River Trail, are generally dog-friendly, requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations for the most current information before heading out.

While cycling, you'll experience the thick, lowland forests characteristic of the area, home to diverse wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. The routes often connect to urban green spaces and offer glimpses of the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, including views of Lake Washington on some longer loops.