The best cycling routes in Dash Point State Park
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If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Dash Point State Park, you know how many routes pop up, making it tough to figure out which ones are truly worth your time and effort. It can feel overwhelming, trying to separate the real gems from the filler. That's exactly why we're here.
Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist. This guide cuts through the noise, saving you the guesswork and pointing you straight to the rides that promise the best experience for your touring bike.
Touring cycling in Dash Point State Park is all about variety. You'll find a unique blend of saltwater shoreline vistas along Puget Sound and lush forested areas inland, crisscrossed by creeks. The terrain ranges from easy, paved waterfront paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes, including some wider dirt paths that are navigable if your touring bike has wider tires. It’s a place where you can truly feel the Pacific Northwest character under your wheels.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the Ruston Way Waterfront Path – Fireboat No. 1 loop from Tacoma. At 27.3 miles (43.9 km), it's a longer, more challenging route that truly showcases the coastal beauty and urban parks, offering a big payoff for your effort. For a more relaxed, family-friendly option that still delivers on views, the easy Fireboat No. 1 – Port Defiance Ferry Terminal loop from University of Puget Sound is a fantastic choice at 8.1 miles (13.1 km). Ready to explore? Dive into these routes and discover why more than 290 touring cyclists love Dash Point State Park with komoot.
Last updated: June 5, 2026
8
riders
12.0km
00:50
140m
140m
The BPA Trail loop from SW 363rd Street Open Space offers a unique touring cycling experience through Federal Way, Washington. This easy 7.5 miles (12.0 km) route, with 459 feet (140 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 50 minutes to complete, winding underneath the distinctive Bonneville Power Administration power lines. You'll encounter a series of gentle ups and downs, creating a "bowl profile" that connects urban areas with pockets of natural trees and plant life, linking key points like Celebration Park and Madrona Park.
Accessing the trail from SW 363rd Street Open Space is straightforward, as the BPA Trail features numerous entry points from various neighborhoods and parks across Federal Way. The path is paved and multi-use, welcoming cyclists, walkers, and runners alike. It's a great option for a relatively quick ride, and its family-friendly nature means it's suitable for a wide range of users.
This trail stands out as a vital community connector, providing a wide, paved surface ideal for touring cyclists while also offering soft-surface trails alongside for other activities. Its role in linking different parts of Federal Way, including downtown areas and southwestern neighborhoods, makes it more than just a recreational path; it's a practical and enjoyable way to explore the city on two wheels.
16
riders
22.6km
01:25
230m
230m
This touring cycling route through Point Defiance Park offers a dynamic ride with ever-changing scenery. You'll navigate rolling hills and enjoy expansive waterfront views of Commencement Bay and Puget Sound, with the chance to spot Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains on a clear day. The route winds through forested parkways, leading you to popular spots like Owen Beach, where you can watch ferries come and go, making it a visually rewarding experience.
Planning your ride means bypassing the Garfield Gulch area, as its trails are not suitable for bikes. Instead, access the park from other points, often connecting from Ruston Way, which provides a scenic lead-in. The park's cycling routes are mostly paved, making them perfect for touring bicycles. There are no specific permits required, but choosing a day with good visibility will enhance your views of the surrounding natural beauty.
The Point Defiance area is a gem for cyclists, especially with the Five Mile Drive now largely closed to cars, creating a safer and more enjoyable experience. The ongoing development of a dedicated Loop Trail further enhances connectivity to attractions like Owen Beach and the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. This moderate 14.0-mile (22.6 km) loop, with 739 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes, offering a great blend of exercise and iconic Tacoma landmarks.
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5.0
(1)
16
riders
16.4km
01:04
160m
160m
The Fireboat No. 1 – Ruston Way Waterfront Path loop from Tacoma offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the scenic shoreline of Commencement Bay. As you pedal, you'll enjoy continuous views of the water, with the possibility of seeing Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains on clear days. The path is mostly flat and paved, making it an easy ride for most, and you'll pass through charming waterfront parks and over the artistic Waterwalk section, adorned with sea creature mosaics.
Planning your visit to this popular Tacoma cycling route is straightforward. Parking is available at various points along Ruston Way, though it can get busy, especially on sunny weekends. The path is well-serviced with numerous restaurants and coffee shops, perfect for a mid-ride break. It's a great option for a family-friendly bike ride, and the best time to visit for optimal views is typically during the spring and summer months.
This 10.2-mile (16.4 km) moderate loop, with a gentle 527 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. A highlight is the historic Fireboat No. 1, a bright red vessel built in 1929, now permanently dry-berthed along the route. The path also offers connections to attractions like the Museum of Glass via the Thea Foss Waterway Esplanade, extending your adventure beyond the main waterfront.
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This easy touring cycling route from the University of Puget Sound takes you on a scenic journey along Tacoma's waterfront and through its premier park. You'll cruise past the historic Fireboat No. 1 on Ruston Way, enjoying continuous views of Commencement Bay, before entering Point Defiance Park. The route offers diverse scenery, from urban landscapes to old-growth forests and stunning vistas of the Puget Sound, making it a perfect blend of city and nature.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this 8.1-mile (13.1 km) loop, which has a minimal 204 feet (62 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 47 minutes to complete. While the University of Puget Sound is your starting point, you'll find ample opportunities to explore shops and cafes along Point Ruston. The Five Mile Drive within Point Defiance Park is a highlight, often car-free, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists to soak in the natural splendor.
What makes this route truly notable is its combination of iconic Tacoma landmarks and natural beauty. It offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest cycling experience, showcasing the city's recreational opportunities and history, particularly with the presence of Fireboat No. 1. For those looking for easy touring cycling routes near University of Puget Sound Tacoma, this loop provides a rewarding and accessible ride.
5.0
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5
riders
44.0km
02:41
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Dash Point State Park
Tips from the Community
Marjorie R. Stanley Natural Area sits just off the road, adding a refreshing touch to your ride with trees and wetland views. There’s no paved path inside, but it’s a nice spot to pause, stretch, and take in the diverse flora.
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A beautiful historic fire fighting and search and rescue ship. Well worth a stop if you're in the area.
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This is where you can cross from Ruston to Vashon Island (in the background)
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Quartermaster Marina lies in the picturesque cove of the Maury Island Aquatic Reserve. The calm waters here are great for pontoon rentals, and there is a houseboat BnB docked here.
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A nice paved trail runs along this beach area, accompanied by a small park right next to the beach. The park features a beach pavilion, a whale sculpture play area, and plenty of benches, making it a great spot to take a break.
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Dickman Mill Park is the site of an abandoned lumber mill. There are some ruins of the mill along with views out onto the water from the short out-and-back path traveling through the park.
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The ferry ride to Vashon Island is a short trip with departures daily every fifteen minutes. The round trip cost for Port Defiance/Tahlequah is $6.50 plus a bicycle surcharge of $1. All fares are collected here, as there is no staff at the Tahlequah landing. As a cyclist, you should arrive 20 minutes early, as they load bicycles before vehicle loading. Otherwise, your bike will be loaded at the end of the process.
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Ruston Way Trail is an excellent multi-use paved trail connecting several small parks along the scenic waterfront. Be alert as you ride this path, as it is a popular route for pedestrians, runners and the occasional carriage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Dash Point State Park?
Dash Point State Park offers a mix of terrain. While many internal trails are unpaved and better suited for mountain biking, some wider dirt paths may be navigable for touring bikes equipped with wider tires. You'll find routes that traverse lush forested areas with mature conifer and deciduous trees, crisscrossed by creeks and ravines, as well as routes offering scenic saltwater shoreline views along Puget Sound.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Dash Point State Park?
Yes, there are easy routes available. For instance, the Fireboat No. 1 – Ruston Way Waterfront Path loop from University of Puget Sound is an easy 8.1-mile (13.1 km) trail that offers scenic views along the waterfront and can be completed in about 47 minutes.
What are the best routes for experiencing the scenic waterfront views?
For stunning waterfront views, you can explore routes like the Ruston Way Waterfront Path – Narrows Viewpoint loop from University of Puget Sound. This moderate 17-mile (27.4 km) route offers picturesque vistas along the Puget Sound shoreline.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in and around Dash Point State Park are designed as loops. For example, the Bike loop from 6th Ave is a moderate 16.1-mile (25.9 km) path that takes you through varied urban and natural settings.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Dash Point State Park?
The touring cycling routes in Dash Point State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, including saltwater shoreline views and forested areas, as well as the varied terrain that offers options for different ability levels.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Fort Nisqually – Ruston Way Waterfront Path loop from Tacoma Dome offer a difficult 59-mile (95 km) ride with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience.
Can I bring my family for a touring cycling trip in Dash Point State Park?
Dash Point State Park offers a family-friendly environment, particularly for activities like beach exploration and hiking. For cycling, while many internal trails are unpaved, easier and wider paths, especially those connecting to the park's vicinity, can be suitable for families with sturdy touring bikes or those looking for a more casual ride. Always check specific route details for suitability.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling in the park?
While cycling, you can expect to encounter diverse natural features. The park boasts over 3,300 feet of saltwater shoreline along Puget Sound, offering unobstructed views. Inland, you'll ride through lush forested areas with mature conifer and deciduous trees, and some trails are crisscrossed by creeks and ravines. Keep an eye out for marine ecosystems during low tides and various bird species.
Is there parking available for cyclists at Dash Point State Park?
Yes, Dash Point State Park provides various amenities, including parking areas for visitors. You can find parking within the park, making it convenient to access the trails and start your cycling adventure. For specific parking information and any potential fees, it's advisable to check the official Washington State Parks website: Dash Point State Park.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Dash Point State Park?
The park is accessible year-round, but the best time for touring cycling generally aligns with drier weather. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as some unpaved sections might be muddy after heavy rain.
Are there any permits required for cycling on the trails in Dash Point State Park?
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to state parks in Washington, including Dash Point State Park. This pass supports the maintenance and operation of state recreation lands. You can purchase a day-use or annual pass. For detailed information on permits and fees, please visit the official Washington State Parks website: Dash Point State Park.
Can I reach Dash Point State Park using public transport with my bike?
Dash Point State Park is located between Seattle and Tacoma. While public transport options exist in the region, bringing a bike on public transport can vary by service and time. It's recommended to check the specific policies of local transit providers (e.g., King County Metro or Pierce Transit) regarding bicycles on buses or other services to plan your trip effectively.
Most popular routes in Dash Point State Park
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