The best cycling routes around Federal Way

Federal Way offers a diverse selection of over 50 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 18 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 10 more challenging options.

The terrain in Federal Way is quite varied. Many routes, like the Cedar River and Interurban Trail Loop, are primarily on paved surfaces, making for smooth riding. You'll also encounter routes that traverse wetlands, forests, and urban greenways. The BPA Trail, for instance, is a paved multi-use trail, while some segments of the Sumner Link Trail might be unpaved.

Yes, Federal Way has several easy, family-friendly options. The Van Doren's Landing Park – Green River Trail loop is an easy 12.4-mile path that follows the Green River Trail, offering pleasant views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Another easy option is the Van Doren's Landing Park loop from Auburn.

Absolutely. Many routes offer scenic views, especially of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, particularly from parks like Dash Point State Park and Dumas Bay Centre Park. Along the Green River Trail, you might spot wildlife like herons and bald eagles, and from points like Briscoe Park, you can get great views of Mount Rainier. The Green River Trail itself is a notable attraction.

Yes, Federal Way features several excellent loop routes. The Cedar River and Interurban Trail Loop is a popular 45.7-mile moderate option. For an easier ride, consider the Van Doren's Landing Park – Green River Trail loop or the Van Doren's Landing Park loop from Auburn.

Beyond the trails themselves, Federal Way boasts numerous attractions. You can explore the unique wetlands at West Hylebos Wetlands Park, enjoy the beaches and trails at Dash Point State Park, or visit cultural sites like the Pacific Bonsai Museum and the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Angle Lake Park or Lake Fenwick Park.

Yes, public transport access is improving. The BPA Trail, a key multi-use path, has plans for extension to the Federal Way downtown light rail station, which will enhance connectivity for cyclists using public transport. Additionally, Federal Way's established network of greenways helps cyclists navigate the city and connect to various trails.

Many parks and trailheads in Federal Way offer parking. For example, Celebration Park, which connects to the BPA Trail, provides parking facilities. Dash Point State Park also has parking available for visitors accessing its extensive trail system. For more information on specific park amenities, including parking, you can visit the official Federal Way parks website: federalwaywa.gov/page/our-parks.

The touring cycling routes in Federal Way are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.8 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, diverse landscapes, and the scenic beauty of the region.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Cedar River and Interurban Trail Loop spans 45.7 miles and offers a moderate challenge. Another substantial option is the Sumner Link Trail loop from Kent Des Moines, which covers 35.6 miles.

Elevation gains vary across the routes. Many easy routes, such as the Van Doren's Landing Park – Green River Trail loop, have minimal elevation changes, making them very accessible. More moderate routes like the Cedar River and Interurban Trail Loop have a more noticeable gain of around 316 meters. The Sumner Link Trail is noted for having some of the most elevation gain among Federal Way trails, reaching up to 49 feet in certain segments.

Many parks and trails in Federal Way are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before you go. For general information on Federal Way's parks, you can refer to federalwaywa.gov/parks.