Washington State is a cyclist's dream, a place where verdant forests meet rugged coastlines, and urban paths connect to vast wilderness. Whether you're a casual rider looking for a scenic spin or a seasoned adventurer craving a multi-day epic, the Evergreen State has a trail for you. Get ready to explore some of Washington's most magnificent cycling experiences!
 

Across the State: Epic Rail-Trails
 

Washington is renowned for its incredible rail-to-trail conversions, offering long, relatively flat, and incredibly scenic rides.
 

• Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail (formerly John Wayne Pioneer Trail / Iron Horse Trail): This iconic trail is a true cross-state adventure, following the route of the former Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad.
   

  • Distance: Approximately 287 miles (462 km) from Cedar Falls (near North Bend) to Tekoa (near the Idaho border).

  • Elevation Gain: The entire trail has varied elevation, with significant climbs and descents, particularly in the Cascades section. For example, a 4.5-mile section near Beverly Bridge has a modest 150 feet of elevation gain. The section from Cedar Falls to Lake Easton State Park is about 70 miles round trip.

  • Sightseeing: This trail offers an astonishing diversity of landscapes. Ride through the dramatic two-mile-long Snoqualmie Tunnel (bring a bright light!), over impressive trestles, past towering basalt cliffs, along the Columbia River (including the scenic Beverly Bridge), and through rolling Palouse farmlands. You'll witness everything from dense forests to wide-open plains.
     

• Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT): Stretching across the northern Olympic Peninsula, the ODT offers a mix of paved and gravel sections, showcasing the region's stunning natural beauty.

  • Distance: Approximately 138 miles (222 km) from Port Townsend to La Push on the Pacific coast.

  • Elevation Gain: Around 6,560 feet (2,000 meters) over its full length, with a general westward climb.

  • Sightseeing: Pedal with the snow-capped Olympic Mountain Range to your south and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to your north. Highlights include picturesque sections along Lake Crescent, glimpses of Olympic National Park, and the wild beauty of the Pacific coastline.
     

Urban Escapes and Scenic Loops
 

Even within Washington's bustling urban centers, you'll find fantastic opportunities for cycling.
 

• Burke-Gilman Trail (Seattle area): A beloved multi-use path that weaves through Seattle's northern neighborhoods and suburbs.

  • Distance: Approximately 20 miles (32 km) from Ballard to Bothell. It also connects to the Sammamish River Trail, extending the paved network even further.

  • Elevation Gain: Mostly flat with a very gentle slope in places, making it ideal for families and leisurely rides.

  • Sightseeing: Enjoy waterfront views of Lake Union and Lake Washington, pass by vibrant parks like Gas Works Park and Magnuson Park, and explore charming lakeside communities. It's a great way to experience Seattle's green spaces and urban charm.
     

• Lake Sammamish Loop: A popular circuit offering scenic views of Lake Sammamish.

  • Distance: Approximately 24-25 miles.

  • Elevation Gain: Around 650-800 feet, making it a moderately easy ride.

  • Sightseeing: Pedal along the shores of Lake Sammamish, with sections on both paved trails and quiet roads. You'll pass through parks and have opportunities to stop for coffee or a break.
     

• Spokane River Centennial Trail (Spokane): A gem in Eastern Washington, this paved trail offers a blend of urban access and natural beauty.

  • Distance: Nearly 40 miles (64 km), stretching from Nine Mile Falls to the Washington/Idaho state line, where it connects to the North Idaho Centennial Trail.

  • Elevation Gain: Roughly 600 feet over its length.

  • Sightseeing: Follow the scenic Spokane River, passing through Riverside State Park, downtown Riverfront Park, and various natural areas. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
     

Mountain Biking and Wilderness Adventures
 

For those craving more challenging terrain and breathtaking mountain vistas, Washington delivers in spades.
 

• Methow Valley Community Trail (Winthrop/Mazama): While known for cross-country skiing in winter, this multi-use trail is fantastic for cycling in warmer months, offering stunning mountain scenery.

  • Distance: Approximately 18 miles (29 km) one-way between Mazama and Winthrop.

  • Elevation Gain: About 1,215 feet over its length.

  • Sightseeing: Wind along the Methow River, crossing scenic bridges (like the Tawlks-Foster suspension bridge), with continuous views of the surrounding North Cascades mountains. You might spot bald eagles and other wildlife.
     

• Mount Adams Loop: A challenging road cycling route for experienced riders looking for big climbs and epic views.

  • Distance: Approximately 52 miles.

  • Elevation Gain: Significant high climbs.

  • Sightseeing: Weave past old-growth trees and volcanic rock formations, with spectacular views of Mount Adams itself, waterfalls, and the surrounding forests.
     

From the salty air of the Puget Sound to the dry canyons of Eastern Washington, and the soaring peaks of the Cascades, Washington State's bike trails offer an unparalleled diversity of experiences. So pack your helmet, pump up those tires, and get ready to discover the Evergreen State from the saddle!