The best cycling routes around Richland
4.5
(82)
205
riders
22
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Richland, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails crisscrossing the area, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the highlights, not the guesswork.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best touring cycling experiences Richland has to offer. We're here to save you the endless scrolling and point you straight to the rides that will make your legs happy.
Richland's cycling scene is truly shaped by its rivers, with extensive, well-maintained paved trails along the Columbia and Yakima offering flat to gently rolling terrain perfect for relaxed rides. But don't let that fool you; venture beyond the riverfront, and you'll find unique shrub-steppe landscapes and accessible hills like Badger Mountain, providing more challenging climbs and panoramic views. This mix means there's something for every ability, from easy riverside loops to routes with significant elevation changes.
If you only do one ride, make it the Sacagawea Heritage Trail. This easy 20.1 miles (32.3 km) route along the Columbia River is a local favorite for a reason, offering continuous scenic views that are hard to beat. For those looking for a bigger challenge and expansive vistas, the Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve Loop via Keene Road Trail is a difficult 21.0 miles (33.8 km) path with significant climbs that are absolutely worth your legs. Ready to explore? More than 180 touring cyclists have already used komoot to discover Richland's varied terrain – join them!
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(6)
44
riders
32.3km
01:53
80m
80m
The Sacagawea Heritage Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the Columbia River through Washington's Tri-Cities. This easy 20.1-mile (32.3 km) loop, with a minimal 253 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, provides nearly two hours of scenic pedaling on a paved multi-use path. You'll enjoy continuous river views, pass through green, tree-shaded areas, and get glimpses of the Yakima River Delta, making it a fantastic option for a relaxed outing.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail connects the cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, with ample access points and parking in city parks. While most of the route is off public roads, be mindful that some sections on the Pasco side briefly share the road with vehicles. The trail is well-marked with mile markers, and you'll find restrooms conveniently located in parks along the way, ensuring a comfortable journey.
This trail holds historical significance, named in honor of Sacagawea, who guided the Lewis and Clark Expedition through this very river corridor. It's a family-friendly route that also offers connections to broader regional trail networks, and you can even access Bateman Island from Kennewick for bird-watching. The trail's flat terrain and paved surface make it an excellent choice for beginner bike routes or a leisurely day out.
33.8km
02:32
470m
470m
The Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve Loop via Keene Road Trail offers a truly rewarding touring cycling experience, blending paved sections with the crushed rock paths of the preserve. You'll navigate significant climbs through a landscape of native dryland grasses and sagebrush, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Tri-Cities, Yakima River Valley, and Columbia River. On clear days, you might even spot distant peaks like Mount Hood and Mount Rainier, making the effort well worth it.
This difficult 21.0-mile (33.8 km) route, with its 1547 feet (471 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. The trails are open year-round, but if you're cycling in summer, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen due to full sun exposure. Remember to be courteous to other trail users, as some sections are multi-use.
This preserve is a testament to community efforts to preserve over 2,500 acres of open space, showcasing unique geology from the Ice Age Floods, including granite boulders. It's also a great spot to observe local wildlife like desert bighorn sheep and mule deer. The varied terrain and challenging climbs make this a standout option for experienced touring cyclists in the Richland WA area.
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4.3
(9)
25
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
18
riders
The Columbia Park Lakeside View – Sacagawea Heritage Trail loop from Richland offers a wonderfully accessible touring cycling experience, tracing the banks of the Columbia River. This easy 20.0-mile (32.3 km) route, with a mere 219 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through lush city parks like Columbia Park and past the Yakima River Delta, all while providing continuous river vistas. You can comfortably complete this scenic ride in about 1 hours and 54 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely pedal. The paved surface ensures a smooth journey, perfect for enjoying the waterfront scenery.
Planning your ride on this popular cycling route in Richland, Washington, is straightforward. The trail is predominantly off-road, but some segments, especially towards Pasco, might briefly share space with vehicles, so stay alert. Parking is generally available at various points along the trail, including Columbia Park. This family-friendly cycling route is enjoyable year-round, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures for a comfortable ride.
This loop is part of the larger Sacagawea Heritage Trail, named after the Shoshone guide of the Lewis and Clark expedition, and is rich with historical and natural facts displayed on granite markers called "Pompy's Lessons." You will also cross impressive structures like the Cable Bridge, which offers fantastic photo opportunities and connects different sections of the trail. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and riverine wildlife, especially around Bateman Island, adding a touch of nature to your urban cycling adventure.
4.8
(5)
11
riders
37.0km
02:11
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Richland
Tips from the Community
From the multi-use trail, you can see the floodplain where the Yakima River flows into the Columbia River.
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Columbia Park is a 400 acre park that sits on the bank of the Columbia River. There are great views of the wide river from most parts of the park. The park has trails, picnic areas, restrooms, a playground and parking.
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Good view of the Yakima River and Yakima Delta from the pedestrian bridge that crosses the river. The Yakima River is a tributary of the Columbia River. There is a wide variety of plant and animal life around the Yakima River and Delta, including salmon and many types of birds,
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The Riverfront Trail is a mostly paved trail that has some gravel and dirt sections. It follows the Columbia River, so there are great views of the river from the path.
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As you enjoy the Richland Riverfront Trail, you will come across the picturesque Columbia Point Marina. You may consider taking a moment to rest at one of the available benches or pausing your walk to appreciate the sunshine and admire the Columbia River at Columbia Point Marina Park.
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Chamna Natural Preserve is a 276-acre property that features more than 11 miles of trails open to different user groups. There are informational signs along some of the paths explaining facts about the different flora and fauna that call the preserve home. There are lots of trails in the network, so you can create a loop of almost any distance.
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Chamna Natural Preserve spans over 276 acres and features more than 11 miles of trails perfect for mountain biking. Signage throughout the preserve aids navigation and offers insights into the diverse flora and fauna found in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Richland?
Richland offers a diverse selection of over 19 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easy riverside paths to more challenging climbs.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Richland?
The region experiences a dry climate, making spring and fall ideal for touring cycling with pleasant temperatures. Summer can be quite warm, especially in the afternoons, while winter cycling is possible but may require appropriate gear for cooler conditions.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Richland?
The touring cycling routes in Richland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive riverside trails, the unique shrub-steppe habitats, and the panoramic views from elevated points like Badger Mountain.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Richland has many easy, paved routes perfect for beginners and families. The Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a popular choice, offering a 20.1-mile easy ride along the Columbia River with scenic views. Another great option is the Columbia Point Marina Park – Riverfront Trail loop from Bradley at River's Edge, which is shorter and equally accessible.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For those seeking a challenge, the Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve Loop via Keene Road Trail is a difficult 21.0-mile route featuring significant climbs and rewarding panoramic vistas of the Tri-Cities and surrounding rivers.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Richland?
Many routes in Richland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Columbia Park Lakeside View – Sacagawea Heritage Trail loop from Richland, which takes you through Columbia Park and along the riverfront.
What scenic viewpoints can I find on touring cycling routes in Richland?
Cycling routes often provide stunning views of the Columbia and Yakima Rivers. From Badger Mountain, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Tri-Cities and the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers. The Columbia Park Lakeside View also offers beautiful waterfront scenery.
Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing along the cycling routes?
Yes, the region's diverse ecosystems, particularly around the Columbia and Yakima Rivers and the Yakima River Delta, support various bird and animal species. You might spot salmon, various birds, and other wildlife, especially along trails like the Sacagawea Heritage Trail and within areas like the Chamna Natural Preserve.
What parks and natural preserves can I explore by bike in Richland?
Richland offers several parks and preserves accessible by bike. Chamna Natural Preserve features over 11 miles of trails. You can also cycle through Columbia Park, Howard Amon Park, and Leslie Groves Park, all offering riverside paths and amenities.
Can I explore the local wine country by bike?
Richland is nestled in Washington's wine country, with many wineries in the Columbia Valley. While specific routes may not lead directly to tasting rooms, some riverside cycling paths, like those along the Columbia River, pass by vineyards, offering a scenic way to experience the region's viticulture.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while cycling?
The Sacagawea Heritage Trail itself passes by historical sites. Additionally, the USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park, featuring the sail of a decommissioned nuclear submarine, is located at the northern end of the Richland Riverfront Trail, offering a unique landmark to visit.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Richland?
Many parks along the Columbia River, such as Columbia Park, Howard Amon Park, and Leslie Groves Park, offer parking facilities that provide convenient access to the extensive network of riverside trails. Parking is also available near trailheads for routes like Badger Mountain.
Is public transport accessible near cycling routes in Richland?
For information on public transport options and their accessibility to cycling routes in Richland, it's best to consult local transit authorities. You can find more general information about the area at visittri-cities.com.
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