The best road cycling routes around Lake Tapps
4.9
(29)
789
riders
34
rides
Road cycling around Lake Tapps offers routes that navigate the reservoir's complex shoreline, providing views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape. The area features a mix of well-paved paths and varied terrain, including sections that follow riverbanks. Cyclists can find routes that incorporate both gentle gradients and moderate climbs through evergreen forests. The region's geography supports diverse road cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes around Lake Tapps
- The most popular road cycling route is Roadbike loop from Sumner, a 27.6 miles (44.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a total elevation gain of 381 feet (116 meters).
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Green River Trail – King County Interurban Trail loop from Sumner, a moderate 38.8 miles (62.5 km) path. This route includes sections along the Green River, offering varied scenery.
- Local road cyclists also love the Sumner Link Trail loop from Sumner, a 18.6 miles (29.9 km) trail leading through riverine landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Road cycling around Lake Tapps is defined by reservoir shorelines, views of Mount Rainier, and lush evergreen forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, including easy and moderate routes.
- The routes in Lake Tapps are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Tapps's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(5)
171
riders
54.9km
02:19
290m
290m
This road cycling loop offers a delightful journey along the paved Foothills Trail, tracing the path of an old railway line. You'll pedal through a varied landscape of farmlands, dense forests, and riverfronts, with the milky white Carbon River often in view, fed by glacial melt from Mount Rainier. The highlight for many is the consistent, awe-inspiring backdrop of Mount Rainier, which dominates the horizon for much of the ride, making it one of the more popular routes for scenic cycling near Bonney Lake.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is generally well-maintained and accessible. While the route is a moderate 34.1 miles (54.9 km) with 942 feet (287 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 19 minutes, the gentle grades of this rail-trail make it suitable for most road cyclists, including families. You'll find amenities like cafés and restrooms in towns along the way, such as Orting, perfect for a quick break.
The Foothills Trail is a unique piece of local history, built on a former Burlington Northern Railway bed, which explains its consistently easy gradient. Beyond the stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Carbon River, you might even spot lahar warning signs, a stark reminder of the region's volcanic geology. This trail is part of a larger vision to connect Mount Rainier to Commencement Bay, offering a glimpse into the natural and historical fabric of the area.
5.0
(3)
122
riders
93.9km
03:57
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.0
(1)
64
riders
73.2km
03:06
100m
100m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
37
riders
57.8km
02:21
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
27.6km
01:18
180m
180m
The Leaky Lake loop from Bonney Lake offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding through the gentle river valleys and foothills of Pierce County. You'll enjoy a mix of open roads and scenic sections, with potential views of the tranquil Leaky Lake and even Mount Rainier on a clear day. This easy 17.1-mile (27.6 km) route, with its modest 599 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed ride that takes just over an hour and 18 minutes.
Planning your ride on the Leaky Lake loop is straightforward, as the Bonney Lake area generally offers accessible road cycling routes. While specific parking for this exact loop isn't detailed, you'll find various community access points in the vicinity of Bonney Lake and Lake Tapps. The best time to enjoy this route is typically during the spring or fall when the weather is most agreeable, though it's generally rideable year-round.
This route is a great example of the diverse cycling opportunities around Bonney Lake, which are highly rated by the Komoot community. The region is known for its interconnected trails, including sections of the paved Foothills Trail, and its proximity to natural attractions like Leaky Lake itself, popular for kayaking and fishing, and the larger Lake Tapps. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a scenic and accessible road cycling adventure.
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Popular around Lake Tapps
Tips from the Community
Just a simple bridge with Voight Creek views.
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The Foothills Trail is a mostly paved 21-mile path from Puyallup toward Mount Rainier, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Enjoy views of Mount Rainier, wildlife, and historic sites like Melmont ghost town. Multiple access points make it easy to explore sections at your pace.
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The King County Interurban Trail is a nearly 15‑mile paved trail following the former Puget Sound Electric Railway. It connects to the Green River Trail at both ends and passes through suburban and industrial zones, and open green spaces.
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Duwamish Gardens Park is a small green space along the Duwamish River in Tukwila. It features native plantings, walking paths, benches, and a canoe/kayak launch, offering a peaceful spot to watch the river and local wildlife. Interpretive signs highlight the area's cultural and ecological history, including its importance to the Duwamish people.
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The Green River Natural Resources Area (GRNRA), just east of Van Doren's Landing Park in Kent, is a hidden gem along the Green River Trail, especially for birders, cyclists, and walkers who enjoy a mix of wetland, prairie, and river views all in one place. Originally developed as a stormwater treatment facility, the area now serves a dual purpose: it filters urban runoff and provides essential habitat for wildlife. The result is a 304-acre patchwork of restored wetlands, ponds, and native plantings that feel far more wild than their suburban surroundings suggest. From the trail, especially near Van Doren’s Landing, you’ll see viewing platforms and side paths leading into the heart of the GRNRA. Expect to spot herons, ducks, red-winged blackbirds, and—if you're lucky—bald eagles or osprey. Interpretive signs explain the ecology and the city’s innovative use of the land. It’s also a great stop for a break if you’re riding—plenty of benches and low-traffic paths make it easy to linger. Let me know if you want a good loop or spur trail that includes both the Green River Trail and the GRNRA.
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Near this spot on the Sumner Link Trail, just south of Tacoma Ave, there are a few picnic tables just off the trail and you're quite close to the White River. This is a nice spot to stop as you ride around the area.
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This park sits on a peninsula, surround by the Green River on three sides, and offer picnic areas, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. But the highlight is the spectacular view of Mt. Rainier you get on clear days.
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On clear days from this spot in Briscoe Park on the Green River Trail, you get great views of Mount Rainier. This is a nice spot to snap some photos before continuing on your hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Lake Tapps?
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Lake Tapps, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 20 reviews.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Lake Tapps?
Road cycling routes around Lake Tapps feature a diverse terrain. You'll find well-paved paths, sections that follow riverbanks, and varied landscapes. Some routes include gentle gradients, while others offer moderate climbs through lush evergreen forests.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes around Lake Tapps?
Yes, Lake Tapps offers several easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Sumner Link Trail loop from Sumner is an easy 18.6-mile trail with minimal elevation gain, leading through riverine landscapes. Another easy option is the Sunset Park loop from Deer Island.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks I can see while cycling?
While cycling around Lake Tapps, you can enjoy spectacular, often unobstructed views of Mount Rainier from various points. The lake itself, a man-made reservoir with an emerald-green hue from glacial silt, offers picturesque shorelines. You might also pass by highlights like Southeast Green Valley Road or the Sumner Link Trail, which follow scenic riverbanks.
Can I find challenging road cycling routes in the Lake Tapps area?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging ride, the Lake Tapps area provides options with greater elevation gain. While the guide highlights moderate routes, the region's diverse terrain includes routes that can feature significant climbs and descents, such as a 55-mile route through the Lakeland Hills neighborhood with 3200 feet of elevation gain mentioned in regional research.
What is the best time of year for road cycling around Lake Tapps?
The temperate climate of the Lake Tapps region, with warm, dry summers, makes it ideal for year-round outdoor pursuits, including road cycling. However, late spring through early fall generally offers the most pleasant weather conditions for exploring the routes.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Lake Tapps?
Yes, many of the well-paved paths and easier routes around Lake Tapps are suitable for families. The Sumner Link Trail loop from Sumner is a great example of a relatively flat and scenic route that families can enjoy together.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes around Lake Tapps?
Public access points around Lake Tapps, such as Allan Yorke Park and North Lake Tapps County Park, typically offer parking facilities. These parks serve as excellent starting points for exploring the cycling routes. North Lake Tapps County Park, in particular, is managed by Pierce County and provides extensive amenities. You can find more information about North Lake Tapps Park on the Pierce County website.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling around Lake Tapps?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Lake Tapps are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Sumner and the Sumner Link Trail loop from Sumner.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Lake Tapps?
The road cycling routes around Lake Tapps are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied scenery, including views of Mount Rainier and the lake's unique emerald-green water, as well as the mix of well-maintained paths and diverse terrain.
Are there any facilities or amenities like cafes along the routes?
While specific cafes directly on every route are not detailed, the Lake Tapps area, including nearby towns like Sumner, offers various amenities. Public parks like Allan Yorke Park also feature facilities such as picnic shelters and playgrounds, which can be convenient stops during your ride.
How does road cycling around Lake Tapps compare to the Sumner Link Trail?
Road cycling around Lake Tapps encompasses a broader range of routes, including those with more varied terrain and elevation changes, offering views of the reservoir and Mount Rainier. The Sumner Link Trail, while a part of some Lake Tapps routes, is specifically a well-kept paved path that follows the White River, providing scenic views of the water and treelined riverbanks, often with less elevation. Routes like the Southeast Green Valley Road – Sumner Link Trail loop from Sumner combine both experiences.
What makes the landscape around Lake Tapps unique for cycling?
The landscape around Lake Tapps is unique due to its complex 45-mile shoreline with numerous inlets and peninsulas, offering constant water views. The most striking feature is the spectacular, often unobstructed views of Mount Rainier. The distinctive emerald-green hue of the lake, resulting from glacial silt, and the surrounding lush evergreen forests also contribute to a highly scenic cycling experience.
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