The best cycling routes around Thurston

Thurston County offers a diverse range of landscapes for touring cyclists. You can traverse vast fields, unique prairie ecosystems, and dense old-growth forests. Many routes also provide picturesque views of the Puget Sound and, on clear days, the majestic Olympic Mountains. Distinctive natural features like the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve and the rugged terrain of Capitol State Forest are also part of the scenic variety.

Yes, Thurston County offers several easy routes. For example, the View of Railway from Bridge loop from Thurston is an easy 12.2 km (7.6 miles) path. The region's trail system includes many paved paths and routes with gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for beginners and those seeking a more relaxed ride.

The Chehalis Western Trail is a cornerstone for touring cyclists, offering a 22-mile paved rail-to-trail path that connects major towns and traverses diverse scenery. It links with the Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail for extended rides, providing a traffic-free way to enjoy the countryside. The Thurston Bountiful Byway is another option, a 60-mile loop promoting agritourism and offering varied landscapes.

Yes, many routes in Thurston County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples from the komoot community include the Drinkstone Windmill – The Checkers Free House loop from Thurston, a 77.9 km (48.4 miles) route, and the Woolpit Village Centre – St Nicholas Church loop from Thurston, which is 29.7 km (18.5 miles).

Thurston County is home to the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, a distinctive natural feature with mysterious, naturally formed mounds. Cycling routes allow riders to experience this unique geological wonder and its enchanting woodland trails. Additionally, the Woodard Bay Conservation Area, the northern trailhead of the Chehalis Western Trail, offers scenic views where you might spot blue herons, cormorants, and bald eagles.

While many touring routes feature gentle to moderate elevation changes, the Capitol State Forest offers more rugged terrain for those seeking a challenge. Although primarily known for mountain biking, its expansive nature provides opportunities for longer, more demanding touring rides on suitable paths. There is one difficult touring cycling route recorded in the area on komoot.

The touring cycling routes in Thurston County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from vast fields to old-growth forests, and the options available for different ability levels.

Yes, some routes offer a mix of rural landscapes and historical points of interest. For example, the Route 51 in Bury St Edmunds – St Edmundsbury Cathedral loop from Thurston passes by St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The Chehalis Western Trail also features murals, trailside sculptures, and historic markers along its path.

There are over 25 touring cycling routes available in Thurston County on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 11 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for every type of cyclist.

Yes, the diverse ecosystems of Thurston County provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. At the Woodard Bay Conservation Area, particularly along the Chehalis Western Trail, cyclists might spot blue herons, cormorants, and bald eagles. The natural areas and forests also host various other local wildlife.

Many popular trailheads and parks in Thurston County offer designated parking areas for cyclists. For specific information on parking facilities at various trail access points, it's recommended to check the official Thurston County Parks and Trails website: thurstoncountywa.gov/departments/public-works/parksandtrails.

Yes, the Deschutes River – Chambers Lake loop from Lacey provides scenic water-based views along its moderate path. Additionally, routes near the Puget Sound offer picturesque saltwater views, and the Woodard Bay Conservation Area provides a scenic loop of the bay.