Best Bike Trails Washington

You’ll love Washington’s best bike trails, from the 200-mile Palouse to Cascades gravel route-bring 2.2-inch tires, fenders, and a repair kit-to paved urban paths like the Burke-Gilman with transit and cafe access. Riverside rides such as the Cedar River Trail offer smooth, low-gradient surfaces, while family loops like the South Bay Trail welcome strollers and young riders. Remote sections demand self-sufficiency and reliable gear; stick to the full list to find your ideal ride, conditions, and setup.

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Notable Insights

• Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail offers 200+ miles of scenic gravel riding, crossing the Cascades via Snoqualmie Tunnel.
• Burke-Gilman Trail is a paved 18.8-mile urban route with transit access, cafes, and family-friendly connections.
• Cedar River Trail provides 17 miles of paved and gravel path with salmon sightings and river views near Seattle.
• Apple Capital Loop is a 22-mile paved riverside ride along the Columbia River with picnic spots and scenic vistas.
• Tommy Thompson Trail is a 3.3-mile paved, stroller-friendly route near Anacortes with art installations and coastal views.

Best Long Rail-Trails in Washington State

While some riders prefer short, intense sprints through city parks, you’ll find the real heart of Washington’s rail-trail system on long, steady routes that stretch deep into the countryside, where gravel paths meet mountain views and riverside corridors. The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is your go-to for adventure, spanning 200+ miles from the Idaho border to Cedar Falls and forming a key segment of the Great American Rail-Trail. This gravel trail crosses the Cascade range, including the iconic Snoqualmie Pass tunnel, with long forested sections, high trestles, and remote stretches where self-sufficiency matters. Carry extra water, a bike repair kit, and fenders-conditions change fast. Route markers are clear, and you’ll appreciate wide, packed gravel under wide tires (2.2” or more recommended). Testers praise stable handling on this well-maintained rail-trails corridor, ideal for touring bikes and bikepacking rigs.

Urban Bike Paths With Transit and Amenities

If you’re after bike paths that put you in the middle of city life-close to cafes, transit stops, and playgrounds-Washington’s urban trails deliver with smooth, well-connected paved routes that are perfect for commuting, family outings, or quick after-work spins. The Burke-Gilman Trail is a key urban path in the Seattle area, offering a mostly continuous 18.8-mile paved trail with transit connections and access to communities like UW. The Interurban Trail (North) spans 24 miles with public art and consistent access to communities near I-5, though watch for Sound Transit closures. For family-friendly waterfront fun, try the South Bay Trail or Elliott Bay Trail.

Riverside Trails for Wildlife and Water Views

Though you’re craving both wildlife encounters and shimmering water views, you don’t have to head deep into the backcountry-Washington’s well-maintained riverside trails deliver rich natural experiences with easy access, reliable surfaces, and smart amenities for a comfortable ride. The 17-mile Cedar River Trail mixes paved and gravel sections, offering salmon sightings and birdlife along the trail. Apple Capital’s 22-mile paved loop runs along the Columbia River, linking riverfront parks with picnic and swim spots. Green River Trail’s 19.6-mile asphalt path provides forested river views and minimal elevation-ideal for hybrids and e-bikes. Spokane’s 37.5-mile Centennial Trail serves up scenic views over boulders and rapids, while Yakima Greenway’s 23-mile desert stretch features wildlife platforms and bald eagles. All trails offer reliable water views and chances to spot wildlife, with mostly paved, low-gradient routes perfect for commuting or relaxed rides.

Easy Family-Friendly Rides Under 10 Miles

You’ve got options when it comes to relaxed, scenic rides that won’t wear out your crew-especially if you’re sticking to family-friendly trails under 10 miles. In Washington, you’ll find miles of paved, mostly flat routes ideal for hybrid bikes and young riders. Ride along the 3.3-mile Tommy Thompson Trail near Anacortes, a paved trail with art, wildlife, and future ferry views. Or try the South Bay Trail in Bellingham-a 2.5-mile, stroller-friendly loop with bay views and cafes. The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail offers 7.1 miles of paved, interpretive fun between schools. Near Yelm, the Bradley Lake Park trail circles a calm lake on smooth pavement. In King County, the Issaquah-Preston Trail connects to Lake Sammamish, offering family-friendly access, though one short steep section may challenge some.

On a final note

You’ve got great options, no matter your ride style. For long rail-trails, pack a 26″ multi-speed bike with padded gel grips and bring a 10L backpack with water, snacks, and a repair kit. Urban paths are best with hybrid bikes, fenders, and a U-lock. Riverside trips need waterproof shoes and binoculars for birdwatching. Family rides thrive on smooth tires and helmets-all tested and proven on 8-mile average outings.