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Birch Bay State Park Beach loop from Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve

Birch Bay State Park Beach loop from Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve

Moderate

5.0

(8581)

14,976

riders

Birch Bay State Park Beach loop from Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve

01:27

30.4km

160m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Tips

The surface along some of this route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 0 m for 135 m

After 30.3 km for 135 m

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.60 km

Driftwood at Birch Bay State Park

Highlight • Beach

Pinch yourself, just a short distance from all that is urban, you'll find this beautiful, secluded cove. Complete with views out to the Canadian Gulf Islands. If you have a license, you can even harvest shellfish in season.

Tip by

26.8 km

Birch Bay State Park Beach

Highlight • Beach

Birch Bay offers a tranquil view with state parks, beaches, and the usual Pacific coast feel. From Birch bay you can spot Canada and Point Roberts.

Tip by

30.4 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

28.9 km

1.54 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

16.9 km

12.8 km

702 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (70 m)

Lowest point (0 m)

Weather

Today

Tuesday 14 July

23°C

13°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

If you're looking for a road cycling route that blends scenic coastal views with a bit of a challenge, the Birch Bay State Park Beach loop from Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve is definitely worth your time. This moderate 18.9-mile (30.4 km) ride features 513 feet (156 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete. It's a great option for cyclists who appreciate varied terrain and stunning Pacific Northwest vistas.

What to expect on Birch Bay State Park Beach loop from Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve

This route primarily sticks to paved surfaces, offering a smooth ride for much of the way. However, be prepared for some segments that might be unpaved and potentially more challenging, adding to its moderate difficulty rating. As you cycle, you'll be treated to picturesque saltwater shorelines and expansive views of the Cascade Mountains and the Canadian Gulf Islands. The route takes you through Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve, which boasts 54 acres of forest, bluff, and beach, with trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the Strait of Georgia and San Juan Islands. You'll also pass a paved access road through open fields near the BP Cherry Point Refinery, providing unique views of Puget Sound. This trail suits cyclists looking for a rewarding ride with diverse scenery and a mix of easy and slightly tougher sections.

Planning your visit

While the route offers fantastic coastal cycling, it's important to note that beach access at Point Whitehorn is currently closed indefinitely due to structural damage to the stairs. Keep this in mind if you were planning to dismount and explore the beach. A significant advantage for road cyclists is the presence of car-free paved roads within the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve property, which connects seamlessly to Point Whitehorn, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience away from traffic. This is the most popular road cycling route in Birch Bay State Park, so consider starting earlier on pleasant days to enjoy it fully.

Trail details