The best road cycling routes around Stansberry Lake

This road cycling loop offers a dynamic ride, blending paved paths, quiet streets, and scenic waterfront sections. You'll traverse the unique Cushman Powerline Trail, which runs beneath power lines and through Wilkinson Farm Park, before reaching the exhilarating Tacoma Narrows Bridge crossing, where expansive views of Puget Sound await. It's an easy 17.4 miles (28.0 km) with 881 feet (269 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 29 minutes.

Starting from Canterwood, the route is well-suited for road cyclists seeking diverse scenery and a manageable challenge. While rated easy, be aware of some hilly sections on the Cushman Powerline Trail itself, with grades up to 10%. Amenities like restrooms, bike racks, and benches are available at various trailheads along the Cushman Trail, making planning your stops convenient.

A standout feature is the Tacoma Narrows Bridge path, an 8-foot wide cycling lane 187 feet above the water, offering a memorable experience. The Cushman Powerline Corridor itself is a unique characteristic, and the trail connects seamlessly to bike lanes leading into downtown Gig Harbor, providing further exploration options for those who want to extend their ride.

The Cushman Powerline Trail loop from Canterwood offers a dynamic road cycling experience, blending paved paths with challenging hills and stunning vistas. You'll pedal through forested sections, alongside power lines, and enjoy expansive views of Puget Sound, with the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge serving as a memorable highlight. The route's varied environments, including a charming ride through Wilkinson Farm Park, ensure there's always something new to see.

Planning your ride is simple, as the Cushman Powerline Trail provides well-maintained trailheads complete with parking, restrooms, and bike racks. While the 15.7-mile (25.3 km) loop is rated easy, be prepared for 809 feet (247 metres) of elevation gain over its 1 hour and 16 minutes duration, as some sections feature grades up to 10%. It's a great option for road cyclists looking for a moderate workout and scenic rewards.

This loop stands out for its unique combination of urban and natural elements, offering a dedicated non-motorized asphalt surface for a smooth ride. The opportunity to cycle across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, 187 feet above the water, is a truly distinctive feature. Furthermore, the Cushman Trail connects to the Scott Pierson Trail, allowing for extended cycling adventures into Tacoma if you wish to explore further.

The Cushman Powerline Trail – Kinbee Hill loop offers a dynamic road cycling experience, blending paved paths with significant elevation changes. You'll traverse scenic forested areas and residential neighborhoods, with highlights including impressive views of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the expansive vistas from Point Defiance Park, where you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier on a clear day. This route provides a rewarding journey for cyclists seeking both natural beauty and a physical challenge.

Planning your ride requires careful attention to the terrain; while the Cushman Powerline Trail is a smooth, paved surface, the specific trails within the Harbor Hill Environmental Sanctuary are unpaved and better suited for mountain bikes. Parking is available near the sanctuary, and the Cushman Powerline Trail itself boasts amenities like restrooms and bike racks. This 28.8-mile (46.3 km) loop, with its 2074 feet (632 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes around 2 hours and 22 minutes, making it a substantial outing.

This route is a fantastic option for road cyclists who appreciate a good workout and diverse scenery, connecting into Gig Harbor's downtown via bike lanes and offering access to the Scott Pierson Trail for further exploration. The historical context of the Cushman Powerline Trail, built along power transmission lines, adds a unique layer to your ride. It's a great way to experience the region's natural beauty and infrastructure, but be prepared for the rolling hills and grades that can reach 7-10%.

The Roadbike loop from Allyn offers a delightful escape into nature, guiding you through a tapestry of green spaces and tranquil forest preserves. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, enjoying the gentle undulations of rolling hills and the serene views of bodies of water like Lake Ellyn. This moderate 33.5-mile (54.0 km) route, with its 1543 feet (470 metres) of elevation gain, is a great option for road cyclists seeking a rewarding ride that takes about 2 hours and 24 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your ride, plan to start from the easily accessible trailhead where parking is readily available. This route is best enjoyed during the warmer seasons when the scenery is vibrant and the conditions are ideal for road cycling. Remember to bring sufficient water, as there are no specific resupply points mentioned along the way, ensuring a comfortable journey.

This loop is part of a highly-rated network of multi-use trails in the region, known for its accessibility to numerous forest preserves. It provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area within a suburban setting, making it a popular choice among local cyclists. The varied terrain and scenic views ensure a pleasant and engaging experience for anyone looking for a solid road cycling adventure.