The best gravel rides around Lake Washington

Gravel biking around Lake Washington offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find urban parks, natural reserves, and waterfront paths. The routes often blend paved sections with gravel, featuring varied elevation changes from flat stretches to challenging climbs. This includes segments on floating bridges and along river corridors, providing a dynamic riding experience.

Yes, there are options for various skill levels. While some routes are more challenging, you can find easier gravel paths. For instance, the Cross Kirkland Corridor – Bent Nails Art Installation loop from Juanita High School is a moderate 30.7 km route that leads through parkland and urban views, which might be suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. The region has 3 easy and 12 moderate tours out of 21 total.

The Lake Washington area is rich with scenic spots. You can enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the 520 bridge, which is part of routes like the 520 Bridge View Park – East Channel Bridge loop from Mount Baker. Other notable landmarks and parks include Gas Works Park with its unique industrial architecture and city views, Seward Park at the south end of the lake, and the Burke-Gilman Trail which offers pleasant views along the northern lakefront.

Absolutely. The Lake Washington area features a well-connected network of trails. The Burke-Gilman Trail and the Sammamish River Trail, for example, allow for seamless connections, enabling you to extend your rides and experience a wider range of scenery, from urban settings to natural river corridors. Many routes incorporate sections of these interconnected paths.

While specific regulations for dogs on gravel trails can vary by park or trail section, many of the multi-use paths around Lake Washington are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always best to check the specific rules for individual parks or trail segments you plan to visit, such as Marymoor Park, which is known for its off-leash dog park, though specific gravel sections may have different rules.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Lake Washington, with an average score of 3.7 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of urban and natural scenery, and the opportunity to experience unique features like the floating bridges. The variety of routes, from moderate loops to more challenging, longer rides, is also a frequently appreciated aspect.

Yes, many of the gravel biking routes around Lake Washington are designed as loops. For example, the Sammamish River Trail – Cross Kirkland Corridor loop from Bellevue Downtown is a moderate 36.1 km circular route. The classic Lake Washington Loop itself, while incorporating some paved sections, offers a scenic 55-mile ride that circles the entire lake, providing a comprehensive tour of the region.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the 520 Bridge View Park – East Channel Bridge loop from Mount Baker offer a difficult 89.4 km path with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Cross Kirkland Corridor – Sammamish River Trail loop from Kirkland, a difficult 63.9 km trail with over 650 meters of elevation gain. These routes often feature a mix of gravel fire roads, power line access roads, and varied terrain.

Parking is generally available at various parks and trailheads around Lake Washington. Many of the larger parks like Marymoor Park, Seward Park, and Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park offer designated parking areas. For routes starting in urban centers like Kirkland or Bellevue, public parking garages or street parking might be available, though it's always advisable to check local regulations and availability beforehand.

Given the urban and suburban nature of many routes around Lake Washington, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries conveniently located near the trails, especially in municipalities like Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle. Areas along the Burke-Gilman Trail and Cross Kirkland Corridor often have accessible options for a quick coffee or a meal.

The Pacific Northwest generally offers good biking conditions from spring through fall. While gravel biking is possible year-round, the drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to October) typically provide the most pleasant weather, with less rain and milder temperatures, making for more comfortable rides and better trail conditions. Winter riding is possible but may involve wetter, muddier sections.

There are over 20 gravel bike tours available around Lake Washington, catering to a range of abilities. This includes 3 easy, 12 moderate, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring there's a suitable option for almost every gravel biker.