Top 10 cycling routes in Washington for fun!
Washington state offers a plethora of scenic cycling routes for riders of all levels. Here are some of the best cycling routes in the state:
- Olympic Discovery Trail: Spanning nearly 130 miles across the Olympic Peninsula, this multi-use trail offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, forests, and coastline.
- Burke-Gilman Trail: Running for 18 miles from Seattle to Bothell, this popular urban trail follows the shores of Lake Washington and the Ship Canal, passing through parks and neighborhoods along the way.
- Mount Rainier National Park – Sunrise Road: Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and surrounding meadows as they ride along Sunrise Road in the park.
- San Juan Islands Loop: Explore the scenic beauty of the San Juan Islands by cycling the loop route that connects several of the islands, offering views of coastal landscapes, farmland, and charming waterfront towns.
- North Cascades Highway (State Route 20): Known as one of the most scenic drives in America, cyclists can also enjoy this route by bike, taking in views of towering mountains, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
- Chuckanut Drive (State Route 11): This scenic byway near Bellingham offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands as it winds along the coastline and through lush forests.
- Snoqualmie Valley Trail: Following the path of an old railroad line, this 31-mile trail offers a flat and scenic ride through the Snoqualmie Valley, passing farmland, forests, and the Snoqualmie Falls.
- Columbia River Gorge: Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge by cycling along the Historic Columbia River Highway, which offers stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and the river.
- Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail (formerly Iron Horse Trail): This rail-trail stretches for over 250 miles across the state, offering a mix of scenery from dense forests to open farmland and impressive trestle bridges.
- Leavenworth to Lake Wenatchee: Ride from the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth to the pristine shores of Lake Wenatchee, enjoying mountain views and riverside scenery along the way.
These cycling routes showcase the diverse beauty of Washington state, from coastal vistas to alpine landscapes, providing unforgettable experiences for cyclists of all abilities.