The best road cycling routes in Yakima County

Yakima County offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find routes traversing arid shrub-steppe, lush river corridors, and the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Expect dramatic basalt cliffs along the Yakima River, extensive agricultural lands with orchards and vineyards, and varied elevations that provide a range of experiences from gentle rolls to challenging ascents.

Yes, Yakima County has routes suitable for various skill levels, including easier options. For a gentler ride, consider the Myron Lake loop from West Valley, which is 19.0 miles (30.5 km) and leads through agricultural areas. The Yakima Greenway also offers a paved pathway along the Yakima River, ideal for families and casual rides.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Yakima County offers routes with significant elevation gains and mountain views. The Tipsoo Lake – Chinook Pass loop from Crystal Lake Trailhead is a difficult 46.9-mile (75.4 km) route with substantial climbing. Another demanding option is the Paradise Visitor Center – Paradise Inn loop from Shriner Peak Trailhead, which is 80.7 miles (129.9 km) and features over 1600 meters of elevation gain.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty. The Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway (State Route 821) is particularly popular for its towering basalt cliffs and the meandering Yakima River. You can also find routes that wind through the region's rich farmland, passing apple orchards, vineyards, and hop fields. For specific viewpoints, consider routes near Dewey Lakes Overlook or those offering a View of Mount Rainier.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Yakima County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Examples include the Camp Five Hill loop from Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a moderate 46.5-mile (74.9 km) path, and the easier Myron Lake loop from West Valley. For mountain scenery, the Chinook Pass – Cayuse Pass loop from Corral Pass Road Trailhead is a challenging option.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Yakima County, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery, such as spring wildflowers or autumn foliage in the agricultural areas. Summer can be hot, especially in the valley, but higher elevation routes in the Cascades become accessible and offer cooler temperatures. Winter can bring snow to higher passes, limiting access.

While specific road cycling routes may not always be ideal for dogs due to traffic or paved surfaces, the Yakima Greenway is a multi-use paved pathway where leashed dogs are generally welcome. For off-road options, the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, which is just outside Yakima, offers trails where dogs are permitted, though these are more suited for mountain biking or hiking.

Road cycling routes in Yakima County vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter, easier loops like the Myron Lake loop from West Valley, which is about 19 miles (30.5 km) and takes around 1 hour 25 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Tipsoo Lake – Chinook Pass loop, can be over 46 miles (75 km) and take 4 hours 30 minutes or more to complete, depending on your pace and elevation gain.

Parking availability varies by route. For routes accessing mountain passes, trailheads like Crystal Lake Trailhead or Corral Pass Road Trailhead typically offer designated parking. For routes along the Yakima Greenway, there are various access points with parking lots along its 18-mile stretch. When planning your ride, it's always recommended to check the specific route details for parking information.

The road cycling routes in Yakima County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from scenic river canyons to agricultural fields and mountain foothills, providing a diverse and engaging riding experience for all ability levels.

Yes, Yakima County provides access to several significant mountain passes that are popular for road cycling. Chinook Pass and White Pass are prominent scenic byways that offer challenging climbs and spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains. Routes like the Chinook Pass – Cayuse Pass loop are excellent for experiencing these high-elevation roads.

Absolutely! Yakima County is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. After a road ride, you can explore the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy for hiking or mountain biking, or enjoy water activities like fishing, rafting, or kayaking on the Yakima River. The region's proximity to the Cascade Mountains also means opportunities for hiking and winter sports.