The best road cycling routes in Anderson Lake State Park

Anderson Lake State Park currently features a selection of road cycling routes, with 3 moderate routes detailed in this guide. These routes offer diverse experiences around the park and its surrounding areas.

While many existing trails within the park are multi-use and better suited for mountain or hybrid bikes, there are plans for an extension of the mostly paved Olympic Discovery Trail (Larry Scott Trail) through the park. This will significantly enhance dedicated paved road cycling options, connecting the park to Port Townsend. Currently, road cyclists often explore routes on the roads surrounding the park.

Road cycling routes in and around Anderson Lake State Park offer varied elevation gains. For example, the Fort Flagler State Park – Port Hadlock loop from Tamanowas Rock Sanctuary includes an elevation gain of approximately 391 meters, while the longer Port Townsend, Port Hadlock, and Port Ludlow loop features around 564 meters of ascent.

Road cycling in the area offers views of the 70-acre Anderson Lake, surrounded by cedar, fir, and alder forests, and freshwater marshes. You might also encounter geological features like the basalt monolith Tamanowas Rock. Routes often extend to coastal towns, providing diverse scenery beyond the park's immediate boundaries.

The park's natural beauty, including forests and wetlands, is enjoyable throughout much of the year. However, it's important to note that Anderson Lake is subject to recurring toxic algae blooms, which can lead to closures of water activities. For cycling, spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer can be warm. Always check local conditions before heading out.

While the park's internal trails are often multi-use, the planned extension of the paved Olympic Discovery Trail will provide a safer, non-motorized route suitable for families. For now, the Chinese Gardens Lake loop from Maplewood Meadows is a moderate 10.1-mile route that offers a scenic loop, which might be suitable for families with some cycling experience.

Anderson Lake State Park itself offers parking facilities. For routes that extend beyond the park, such as the Eaglemount Road loop from Jefferson Healthcare Hospital, you would typically find parking options at the starting points or nearby towns like Port Hadlock or Port Townsend.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often appreciate the diverse terrain, from forested sections to coastal views, and the opportunity to explore both natural landscapes and charming towns on routes like the Port Ludlow loop.

Yes, there are several loop options for road cyclists. The Chinese Gardens Lake loop from Maplewood Meadows is a moderate 10.1-mile route that circles the lake. Longer loops, such as the Fort Flagler State Park – Port Hadlock loop from Tamanowas Rock Sanctuary, also provide circular routes through varied landscapes.

Anderson Lake State Park is generally dog-friendly, with 8 miles of hiking trails and 5 miles of equestrian trails. For road cycling, dogs are typically allowed on leash on multi-use trails and roads where cycling is permitted. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash, and check specific trail regulations before you go.

While the park itself offers picnic tables, nearby towns like Port Hadlock, Chimacum, and Port Townsend provide a range of amenities. You can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in these areas, which are often integrated into longer cycling routes, making them convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays.