The best traffic-free bike rides in Thurston County

Thurston County offers a good selection of routes for gravel biking away from traffic. This guide features 8 distinct no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The best time for gravel biking in Thurston County is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, you'll experience milder temperatures and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter can bring wet and muddy conditions, especially in forested areas like Capitol State Forest.

While many of the featured routes lean towards moderate to difficult, the region does offer sections of multi-use trails like the Chehalis Western Trail and Yelm-Tenino Trail that are relatively flat and can be suitable for beginners looking for less technical gravel sections. For a dedicated route in this guide, the Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail loop from Kennedy Creek Natural Area Preserve is rated as moderate and offers a shorter, less strenuous option.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain on Thurston County's no-traffic gravel trails. Many routes, especially within the Capitol State Forest, feature forest roads with significant elevation changes, offering views of lush trees, prairies, and rivers. Other trails, like sections of the Chehalis Western Trail, are converted railroad grades, providing smoother, flatter paths through wetlands and farmland. The E-Line Road loop from Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, for example, explores varied and challenging terrain.

Absolutely. Thurston County is known for its 'Super Gravel' routes, particularly within the Capitol State Forest. The E-Line Road loop from Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is a difficult 62 km route with over 1200 meters of elevation gain, providing a substantial challenge. Another demanding option is the Summit Lake waterfront – S Line loop from McCleary, which covers 35 km with over 540 meters of climbing.

Many no-traffic gravel trails in Thurston County offer access to beautiful natural attractions. You can explore the unique geological formations of the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, known for its mysterious mounds. The Chehalis Western Trail winds through wetlands and forests, while the Yelm Tenino Trail offers scenic views of the countryside. The Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail loop provides an opportunity to see the Kennedy Creek Natural Area Preserve.

Yes, several routes in this guide are designed as loops to maximize scenic views while minimizing traffic. The E-Line Road loop from Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve and the E-Line Road – Mima Falls Trailhead loop both offer extensive loops through the Capitol State Forest. Another option is the Margaret McKenny Campground – Middle Waddell Campground loop from Mount Molly, which provides a substantial loop through forested areas.

While many of the routes in this guide are rated difficult, some sections of the broader trail network in Thurston County are family-friendly. For instance, the Chehalis Western Trail and Yelm-Tenino Trail, though not exclusively gravel, offer paved and crushed rock sections that are generally flat and safe for families. When choosing a route from this guide, consider the shorter, moderate options and always check the elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Many trails in Thurston County, especially those in state forests and parks, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary. For example, trails within the Capitol State Forest generally welcome leashed dogs. Ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, especially on longer or more challenging routes.

Parking is available at various trailheads and access points throughout Thurston County. For routes within the Capitol State Forest, you can often find parking near popular starting points like the Mima Falls Trailhead or the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve. For multi-use trails like the Chehalis Western Trail, there are numerous designated parking areas along its length. Always check the specific tour details on komoot for recommended parking locations.

Yes, some trail systems and parks in Thurston County provide amenities. For instance, Tumwater Falls Park, while not a gravel biking trail itself, is a popular spot with restrooms and picnic areas near the urban trail network. Along the Chehalis Western Trail, you'll find various amenities in the towns it passes through. For routes deep within Capitol State Forest, amenities are more limited, so it's best to be self-sufficient. The Norm Dicks Visitor Center is another facility that can be a starting point for some adventures.

Gravel bikers frequently praise Thurston County for its extensive network of quiet forest roads and multi-use trails that offer a true escape from traffic. The diverse landscapes, from the unique Mima Mounds to the dense Capitol State Forest, provide constantly changing scenery. Riders often highlight the challenging climbs and rewarding descents, as well as the sense of solitude found on many of the routes.