The best cycling routes around Port Townsend
4.4
(33)
216
riders
21
rides
Touring cycling around Port Townsend offers diverse landscapes, from coastal paths along the Salish Sea to routes through forests and farmlands. The region features rolling terrain with varied elevations, providing scenic vistas in every direction. Cyclists can explore trails that hug the coastline, pass through wooded areas, and traverse open pastures. Port Townsend also serves as a base for accessing the wider Olympic Peninsula's natural features.
Best touring cycling routes around Port Townsend
- The most popular touring cycling route is Larry Scott Memorial Trail, a 16.2 miles (26.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 21 minutes to complete. This route offers bay views, forest sections, and mountain vistas, forming part of the Olympic Discovery Trail.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Port Townsend loop, a moderate 25.3 miles (40.8 km) path. This route features varied terrain and scenic views, including rolling highlands and lowlands.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Whidbey Island loop, a 34.4 miles (55.4 km) trail leading through Whidbey Island, often completed in about 3 hours 22 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Port Townsend is defined by coastal views, sun-dappled forests, and rolling terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging excursions.
- The routes in Port Townsend are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Port Townsend's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.4
(12)
44
riders
26.1km
02:21
190m
190m
Cycle the moderate Larry Scott Memorial Trail, a 16.2-mile route near Port Townsend with bay views, forest sections, and mountain vistas.
4.0
(1)
14
riders
40.8km
02:57
440m
440m
Cycle the moderate 25.3-mile Port Townsend loop, gaining 1444 feet in Fort Worden State Park, featuring varied terrain and scenic views.
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5.0
(2)
13
riders
55.4km
03:22
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
6.13km
00:24
80m
80m
Easy 3.8-mile touring cycling loop in Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend, offering scenic views and historic sites.
4.0
(2)
29
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Port Townsend is the perfect seaport for a full resupply for hikers heading into the Olympic Peninsula. Visitors can explore historic sites like Fort Worden State Park, the Jefferson County Courthouse, and the Rothschild House, participate in the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival and the Rhododendron Festival, and visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the Jefferson Museum of Art and History.
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John Pope Marine Park also goes by the name Marine Park and is 1.3 acres in size, right on the water. It's got open lawns, picnic areas, restrooms, and playgrounds.
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City pier that sits on the edge of the historic district. It's known for having a beautiful waterfront and hosting the largest wooden boat festival in the US. This annual event draws over 10,000 visitors, making it the perfect place to stop and admire the impressive boats.
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In Coupeville, a picturesque harbor town on Whidbey Island, Penn Cove offers protection. The bayfront boasts charming wooden houses, exuding a Scandinavian allure, along with eateries and souvenir shops. The historic Pier, initially built for grain, now caters to tourism, embodying a dreamy tranquility during the off-season.
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This park is lovely, complete with a nice beach offering views of Whidbey Island in the distance to the east across Admiralty Inlet, the entrance to Puget Sound. On a clear day, you can see Mount Baker. It is small, quiet, and not a popular option for large gatherings, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy a short morning or evening run.
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At this junction, you can hop on or off the Larry Scott Trail. If you're coming from Port Townsend, you can either turn around and head back or take a left on South Discovery Road, which will lead you to State Road 20 and an alternative route to Port Townsend. Additionally, this is where the Larry Scott Memorial Trail transitions into the Olympic Discovery Trail. To continue on the Olympic Discovery Trail, turn left onto South Discovery Road and then right onto the Olympic Highway. If you would like to head towards Beckette Point make a left on South Discovery Road.
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This scenic trail starts in Port Townsend. This scenic trail spans 7.3 miles, winding its way to the southwest until it reaches the Milo Curry Trailhead at Four Corners, where it concludes. The Larry Scott Trail is a segment of both the Olympic Discovery Trail and the Pacific Northwest Trail.
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At this junction, you can hop on or off the Larry Scott Trail. If you're coming from Port Townsend, you can either turn around and head back or take a left on South Discovery Road, which will lead you to State Road 20 and an alternative route to Port Townsend. Additionally, this is where the Larry Scott Memorial Trail transitions into the Olympic Discovery Trail. To continue on the Olympic Discovery Trail, turn left onto South Discovery Road and then right onto the Olympic Highway. If you would like to head towards Beckette Point make a left on South Discovery Road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Port Townsend?
Port Townsend offers a diverse network of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy scenic rides to more challenging excursions across varied terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Port Townsend's cycling routes?
You can expect a mix of terrain, including coastal paths along the Salish Sea, sun-dappled trails through thick forests, and rides through farmlands, pastures, and orchards. Many routes feature rolling highlands and lowlands, offering varied scenic vistas.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Port Townsend has several easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Fort Worden State Park loop offers easy loops with scenic views and historic sites. The Larry Scott Memorial Trail is also a packed gravel trail suitable for non-motorized transport and is ADA approved.
Are there challenging routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Whidbey Island loop offer a longer distance and significant elevation gain, including some unpaved segments. The region features 4 difficult routes out of 22, providing ample opportunities for experienced riders.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the routes?
Cycling routes in Port Townsend often feature stunning coastal views of the Salish Sea and Admiralty Inlet. You can also explore historic sites like Fort Worden State Park, which includes the Point Wilson Lighthouse and WWII-era bunkers. The Larry Scott Memorial Trail offers bay views, forest sections, and mountain vistas, and connects to the Larry Scott Memorial Trail Junction.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. The Port Townsend loop is a popular moderate 25.3-mile route with varied terrain. Additionally, the Fort Worden State Park loop provides an easy 3.8-mile option for exploring the park's scenic views and historic sites.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Port Townsend?
Port Townsend offers pleasant cycling conditions for much of the year. The spring and fall typically provide mild temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer offers warmer weather ideal for coastal rides. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling trails?
Many trails in the Port Townsend area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go. For example, the Larry Scott Memorial Trail is generally welcoming to leashed dogs. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
Where can I park my car when cycling in Port Townsend?
Parking is generally available at trailheads and state parks. For instance, you can find parking near the start of the Larry Scott Memorial Trail in downtown Port Townsend, or at Fort Worden State Park for access to its loops.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Port Townsend?
The touring cycling routes around Port Townsend are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from stunning coastal views to peaceful forest sections, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Are there opportunities to combine cycling with a ferry trip?
Yes, you can combine cycling with a scenic ferry crossing. The Whidbey Island loop involves taking a ferry to Whidbey Island, where you can explore additional trails, including those in Fort Ebey State Park.
Are there accessible cycling paths in Port Townsend?
The Larry Scott Memorial Trail is a notable accessible option, being ADA approved. Its packed gravel surface makes it suitable for a wide range of users, including those with adaptive bikes.
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