The best cycling routes around Sequim

The Olympic Discovery Trail: Sequim to Blyn offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding through a tapestry of dense forests, open prairies, and farmlands. You'll enjoy captivating waterfront views of Sequim Bay and distant vistas of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The route also features impressive river crossings, including the Johnson Creek Trestle, a significant 410-foot long and 86-foot high landmark, providing a diverse and engaging ride.

This moderate 13.3-mile (21.4 km) cycling route, with 601 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete. While mostly paved, expect some short gravel sections and a few notable climbs, such as a 3-mile ascent from Sequim Bay State Park. The trail is suitable for most touring cyclists, and e-bikes can be particularly useful for navigating the forested sections with their

The Dungeness River & Bridge – Sequim Bay State Park loop from Sequim offers a diverse touring cycling experience, largely following the Olympic Discovery Trail. You'll pedal through dense forests, open farmlands, and along the waterfront with expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Sequim Bay. A key feature is the historic Railroad Bridge over the Dungeness River, where you can observe riparian forest and potentially seasonal salmon spawning, all under the often sunny skies of the Olympic rain shadow.

This is a difficult 77.5-mile (124.7 km) ride with 2761 feet (841 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 7 hours and 27 minutes, so it's best suited for cyclists with very good fitness. While much of the route is paved, be prepared for some unpaved sections where you might need to walk your bike. The Dungeness River Nature Center near the Railroad Bridge provides amenities like restrooms and a bike repair stand, and Sequim Bay State Park offers camping options.

This loop is a significant part of the 135-mile Olympic Discovery Trail, offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Dungeness River area is an Important Bird Area, making it excellent for birdwatching, and the entire region benefits from a drier, sunnier climate. It's a fantastic way to explore the varied landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula on two wheels.

The Dungeness River & Bridge – Sequim Bay State Park loop from Schoolhouse Point offers a delightful touring cycling experience, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the Sequim area. You'll pedal along the Dungeness River, cross a historic railroad bridge, and pass through coastal plains and agricultural fields, including fragrant lavender farms. The route culminates in Sequim Bay State Park, where you'll find towering trees and lush native shrubbery, alongside expansive views of Sequim Bay and the Olympic Mountains. This moderate 30.6-mile (49.3 km) ride, with 889 feet (271 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 54 minutes, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

To plan your visit, start your journey from Schoolhouse Point, where parking is typically available. The route is primarily on well-paved roads, ensuring a comfortable ride for most touring cyclists. Thanks to the region's unique "Olympic rain shadow" effect, you can enjoy this loop year-round, benefiting from more sunny days than other parts of the Pacific Northwest. Sequim Bay State Park also offers convenient amenities, including hiker/biker campsites, if you wish to extend your stay.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the Olympic Discovery Trail, as it incorporates a segment crossing the Dungeness River on a historic railroad bridge. The Sequim area is famous for its lavender farms, and you'll get glimpses of these cultivated fields, adding a unique sensory element to your ride. The "Olympic rain shadow" creates a distinct microclimate, making this a reliable destination for outdoor activities even when other areas are wet. It's a great option for those seeking a scenic and accessible cycling route with varied points of interest.

The Sequim Bay State Park – Dungeness River & Bridge loop from Sequim offers a diverse and challenging touring bicycle experience, primarily along the paved Olympic Discovery Trail. You'll traverse varied landscapes, from coastal paths with views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to dense forests and open farmlands, all while enjoying the drier climate of the Olympic rain shadow. This difficult 60.3-mile (97.1 km) route, with 2249 feet (685 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes to complete, making it a substantial ride for well-prepared cyclists.

To plan your cycling adventure, note that the route starts from Sequim, offering convenient access to the Olympic Discovery Trail. Railroad Bridge Park, a significant landmark along the Dungeness River, provides essential amenities like a coffee bar, public restrooms, and even a bike repair stand. While the region benefits from more sunny days, it's always wise to check local weather, especially for a ride of this duration and difficulty, ensuring you're ready for the full 5 hours and 55 minutes.

This loop stands out for its blend of natural beauty and practical features, including the impressive Dungeness River trestle and the historic wooden truss bridge. The Dungeness River Nature Center and Railroad Bridge Park area is recognized as an "Important Bird Area," offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly during seasonal salmon spawning. For those considering longer tours, Sequim Bay State Park also features convenient hiker-biker campsites, adding to the appeal of this popular cycling trail.