The best traffic-free bike rides in Washington County

This guide features a selection of 4 challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes in Washington County. While these specific routes are rated as difficult, the broader region, encompassing various Washington Counties across the US, offers a diverse range of gravel biking experiences, from multi-use paths with unpaved sections to dedicated gravel roads. For example, Washington County, Minnesota, is known for its extensive trail networks like the Gateway State Trail, which includes unpaved sections suitable for gravel bikes.

The routes highlighted in this guide are generally rated as difficult, offering significant elevation changes and longer distances. However, if you're looking for easier options, Washington County, Oregon, offers sections of the Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway with a 21-mile car-free stretch, which, while mostly paved, can connect to gravel options like the Reehers Camp Loop. Washington County, Maryland, also features historic canal towpaths, such as the C&O Canal Towpath, which often combine paved and crushed stone paths, providing suitable conditions for easier gravel rides.

The routes in this guide, such as the Cedar Pocket Road Trail and Mesa Road to Hurricane Mesa – Smith Mesa Road loop from Virgin, traverse varied terrain. Generally, Washington Counties across the US offer diverse landscapes, from the forests, lakes, and prairies of Minnesota to the coastal mountains, vineyards, and natural reserves of Oregon, and the historic waterways and Appalachian foothills of Maryland. You can expect scenic views, natural areas, and often a mix of open and wooded sections.

Yes, several routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Navajo Lake Loop Trail and the Mesa Road to Hurricane Mesa – Smith Mesa Road loop from Virgin are excellent circular options for exploring the region's gravel paths without traffic.

While enjoying the no-traffic gravel bike trails, you'll find opportunities to explore stunning natural features. Nearby attractions include impressive natural monuments like Angels Landing, the West Rim Trail, and the iconic Zion National Park. You can also discover beautiful waterfalls and scenic trails such as the Emerald Pools Trail and the Kayenta Trail, or visit Gunlock Reservoir State Park.

The best season for gravel biking in Washington County can vary depending on the specific location. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal. Summer can be excellent, especially in higher elevations or shaded areas, but some regions might experience higher temperatures. Winter riding is possible in some Washington Counties, particularly on well-maintained paths or with appropriate gear, but conditions can be challenging due to snow or ice.

While specific parking details for each route are best found on the individual tour pages, many regional parks and trailheads in Washington Counties offer designated parking. For example, in Washington County, Minnesota, parks like Lake Elmo Park Reserve and Pine Point Regional Park provide access to gravel-suitable trails. Always check the tour description on komoot for the most accurate starting points and parking information.

For gravel biking on no-traffic trails in Washington County, it's essential to be prepared. We recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes, pump, and tire levers), and appropriate clothing for the weather. Given the varied terrain and potential for longer rides, a GPS device or a fully charged phone with the komoot app is highly recommended for navigation. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet are also crucial for safety and comfort.

The komoot community highly rates the experiences in Washington County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. While based on a limited number of reviews for this specific guide, users often praise the challenging terrain, the sense of adventure on less-trafficked paths, and the stunning natural beauty encountered along the way. The opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and natural monuments without vehicle interference is a significant draw.

While the routes listed in this guide are rated as difficult, some Washington Counties offer more family-friendly options. For instance, Washington County, Minnesota, has multi-use paths like the Gateway State Trail that can be suitable for families, especially on its less technical, unpaved sections. Similarly, the C&O Canal Towpath in Washington County, Maryland, provides relatively flat, crushed stone paths that are great for families looking for a relaxed, car-free ride.

Yes, the focus on 'no traffic' routes inherently leads to less crowded experiences. Routes like the Cedar Pocket Road Trail and the Bloomington Park – Red Mountain loop from Webb Hill are designed to take you away from busy roads, offering a more secluded and immersive experience. Exploring the extensive networks in various Washington Counties, such as the lesser-known gravel roads around Twin Lakes or Margaret Lake in Minnesota, can also reveal quiet, scenic paths.