The best traffic-free bike rides around Olympia

There are 12 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Olympia featured in this guide. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 5 considered easy and 7 rated as moderate.

Olympia's no-traffic routes offer diverse scenery, from paved rail-trails like the Chehalis Western Trail that wind through forests, farmlands, and pastures, to rural roads with views of old-growth forests. Many routes also incorporate picturesque waterfront sections along Puget Sound and lakes, such as the Johnson Point & Woodard Bay Loop, or views of the State Capitol building.

Yes, for longer car-free cycling, the Chehalis Western Trail is an excellent option. It spans over 20 miles and connects to the Yelm-Tenino Trail, allowing for extended excursions. Routes like the Chehalis Western Trail – Chambers Lake loop from Gull Island offer over 60 km of riding, much of it on dedicated trails.

The elevation gain on these routes varies, but most are manageable. For example, the Chehalis Western Trail loop from Olympia High School has an elevation gain of around 114 meters over 30 km, making it relatively flat. More moderate routes, like the Loop from Olympia to the Mima Mounds, feature around 358 meters of ascent over 58 km.

Absolutely. The paved Chehalis Western Trail is particularly well-suited for families due to its flat, car-free nature and scenic environment. The Chehalis Western Trail loop from Olympia High School is an easy, 30 km option that is great for a family outing.

Many routes offer views of significant natural and cultural landmarks. You can cycle past Capitol Lake, enjoy the diverse ecosystems of the Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area, or explore the Chehalis Western Trail itself, which is a major attraction. The Taylor Wetlands and Side Trail – Washington State Capitol loop offers views of the State Capitol building.

The komoot community rates the no-traffic road cycling routes around Olympia highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, car-free nature of the trails, the beautiful natural scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for a pleasant riding experience.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Loop from Olympia to the Mima Mounds and the Chehalis Western Trail – Chambers Lake loop from Gull Island, both offering extensive circular rides.

Olympia offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though some routes may be busier. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, potentially wetter weather, especially on routes that are more exposed.

Yes, many routes have convenient parking options. For example, the Chehalis Western Trail loop can be accessed from Olympia High School, which typically has parking. For routes like the McMenamins Spar Café – Squaxin Park loop, you can often find parking near the starting points in urban areas or designated trailheads.

Olympia has a public transit system (Intercity Transit) that may offer access points close to some of the routes, particularly those within or near the city limits. It's advisable to check specific bus routes and their proximity to trailheads or starting points for routes like the Chehalis Western Trail or those around Capitol Lake.