The best traffic-free bike rides in Anacortes Community Forest Lands

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes detailed in this guide, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes are specifically curated to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicle traffic, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Yes, the Monkey Hill – Troxel Hill loop from Quarry Pond is an easy route, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. It covers approximately 19.6 kilometers with gentle elevation changes, offering a pleasant experience through the area's landscapes.

The routes offer diverse scenery, from coastal vistas along the Tommy Thompson Trestle – Tommy Thompson Parkway loop from Anacortes, which follows a decommissioned train trestle with beautiful water views of Fidalgo Bay, to glimpses of the dense forests and tranquil lakes that characterize the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. You might also encounter views of the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound on clear days.

While the routes focus on natural beauty, you can find points of interest nearby. For instance, some routes pass close to Heart Lake, one of the freshwater lakes integral to the ACFL. The Tommy Thompson Parkway itself is a landmark, offering unique views from its trestle.

The Anacortes area is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer provides warmer weather and longer daylight hours, while mild winter days can also be suitable, though some trails might be wetter. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Whidbey Island Northside loop is a moderate route spanning over 72 kilometers with significant elevation gain, offering a more extensive exploration of the region's diverse landscapes. The Tommy Thompson Trestle – March Point Heronry loop from Anacortes also provides a moderate challenge over nearly 28 kilometers.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free sections like the Tommy Thompson Parkway, the stunning water views, and the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Fidalgo Island away from traffic.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are loop routes, designed for convenience and to showcase a variety of scenery without requiring you to retrace your steps. Examples include the Tommy Thompson Trestle – Tommy Thompson Parkway loop from Anacortes and the Monkey Hill – Troxel Hill loop from Quarry Pond.

Many of the routes start and end in Anacortes, where various public parking options are available. For routes like the Monkey Hill – Troxel Hill loop, starting points near Quarry Pond may offer convenient access. Specific parking details are often provided within each individual route description on komoot.

While the internal trails of the ACFL are primarily unpaved and best suited for mountain biking or hiking, many road cycling routes pass by or provide access points to the forest lands. Roads like Heart Lake Road, for instance, offer glimpses into the ACFL, allowing you to appreciate its dense forests and tranquil lakes from paved surfaces.

The Anacortes Community Forest Lands and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Cyclists might spot deer, beavers, and a variety of birds, including owls, ducks, swans, and eagles, especially near the lakes and wetlands. The diverse ecosystem makes it a prime location for wildlife viewing.