The best cycling routes in Thurston County

Thurston County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 45 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging excursions.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, primarily featuring well-maintained multi-use trails, many of which are repurposed old railway lines, offering generally flat and accessible paths. Routes also traverse wetlands, farmland, and wooded areas, with some winding through old-growth forests or providing scenic waterfront views along Puget Sound.

Yes, Thurston County is very family-friendly and offers numerous easy routes perfect for beginners. The Chehalis Western Trail – Woodard Bay loop from Olympia is an excellent easy option. The Chehalis Western Trail itself is a prime example of a flat, paved 'rails-to-trails' path, ideal for leisurely rides through picturesque scenery.

Many routes pass by significant natural attractions. You can explore the unique Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, known for its mysterious grassy knolls, or visit the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a crucial habitat for migratory birds. The Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area and Ellis Cove Nature Trail are also accessible from various routes, offering beautiful natural settings.

While not directly on every cycling route, Tumwater Falls Park, with its cascading waterfalls, is a scenic stop, particularly in late summer when Chinook salmon return. Deschutes Falls Park is another beautiful spot with falls and clear water that can be incorporated into a cycling trip.

Absolutely. Many of the touring cycling routes in Thurston County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Delphi Road loop, which winds through forested settings, and the Johnson Point & Woodard Bay loop, offering Puget Sound views.

The best time for touring cycling in Thurston County is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and trail conditions are typically dry and pleasant. Summer offers long daylight hours, while spring and fall provide beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures.

Many popular trails, such as the Chehalis Western Trail and Yelm-Tenino Trail, have designated parking areas and trailheads conveniently located along their paths. The Thurston County Bicycle Map is a useful resource for identifying specific parking locations and access points for various routes.

Many multi-use trails in Thurston County, including popular rail-trails, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy with your canine companion.

The touring cycling routes in Thurston County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained rail-trails, the diverse natural scenery ranging from wetlands to Puget Sound views, and the variety of routes suitable for all ability levels.

While popular trails like the Chehalis Western Trail can see more activity, exploring some of the less-known loops or visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can offer a more tranquil experience. Routes that venture into forested areas, such as the Delphi Road loop, might also offer more solitude.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views of Puget Sound. The Johnson Point & Woodard Bay loop is a prime example, leading through coastal areas with picturesque waterfront vistas. Percival Landing Park in Olympia also offers boardwalks and waterfront views that can be incorporated into a ride.