The best cycling routes in Clark County

Clark County offers nearly 50 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 20 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options to explore.

Clark County's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You can expect scenic riverfront paths along the Columbia River, forested trails, wetlands, and rolling hills, particularly in areas like Hockinson. Routes like the Salmon Creek Trail Loop traverse woodlands and meadows, while the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway: Washington offers rolling climbs and descents.

Yes, Clark County has several easy routes suitable for families. The Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway – Burnt Bridge Creek Trail loop from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is an easy 18.2 km trail through wetlands and forests. Another great option is the Wintler Park – Fort Vancouver loop from Vancouver, an easy 19.4 km ride.

Many routes offer access to beautiful natural features and historical sites. You can cycle along the Columbia Riverfront Renaissance Trail for river views, or visit Fort Vancouver. The Vancouver Lake – Frenchman Bar loop from Lakeshore takes you past Vancouver Lake and Frenchman Bar. The Camas Heritage Park – Round Lake loop from Union High School passes near Round Lakes Upper Dam.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Clark County are designed as loops. Examples include the Salmon Creek Trail Loop, the Wintler Park – Broughton Beach loop from Vancouver, and the Bridge crossing Burnt Bridge Creek – Wintler Park loop from Vancouver Lake Park, offering convenient starting and ending points.

The touring cycling routes in Clark County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from quiet woodlands and meadows to scenic riverfront paths, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.

Absolutely. Several routes allow you to explore historical areas. The Broughton Beach – Fort Vancouver loop from Mountain View High School and the Grant Street Pier – Fort Vancouver loop from Fort Vancouver High School both include Fort Vancouver, a significant historical landmark.

While not directly on the listed touring cycling routes, Clark County is home to natural attractions like Moulton Falls, Yacolt Falls, and Lucia Falls, which can be found along other trails in the region. You might consider combining a cycling trip with a short detour to visit these picturesque spots.

Clark County has a supportive cycling community. Organizations like Bike Clark County promote cycling access and safety, and the Vancouver Bicycle Club sponsors group rides and events like the annual Ride Around Clark County (RACC). For more information on local cycling resources and events, you can visit Visit Vancouver WA's biking section.

Clark County offers enjoyable cycling through much of the year. Spring and fall typically provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for routes along the Columbia River, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler, wetter conditions.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway: Washington is a difficult 176 km route that offers extensive panoramic views and rolling terrain, making it an excellent choice for a longer touring experience.

Yes, many routes highlight Clark County's beautiful waterways. The Vancouver Lake – Frenchman Bar loop from Lakeshore takes you directly past Vancouver Lake. Other routes, such as the Bridge crossing Burnt Bridge Creek – Wintler Park loop from Vancouver Lake Park, also offer views of the lake and connect to the Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway.