The best cycling routes in Burrows Island Marine State Park

While Burrows Island itself is not set up for extensive cycling, the nearby mainland offers a variety of options. There are over 25 touring cycling routes available in the surrounding region, catering to different skill levels.

The touring cycling routes in the region primarily traverse the nearby mainland, featuring diverse terrain. You'll find paths through dense woodlands, around freshwater lakes, and along scenic coastal areas with views over the Salish Sea. The routes vary from gentle, relatively flat sections to more challenging climbs with significant elevation changes, such as the Rosario Head – Waterfront at Washington Park loop which includes over 500 meters of ascent.

Yes, the area offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Cranberry Lake loop from Anacortes Airport is a 4.6-mile (7.4 km) trail through forested areas that can be completed in under an hour, offering a pleasant and accessible ride.

While cycling on the mainland, you'll encounter scenic views over the Salish Sea, dense woodlands, and freshwater lakes like Heart Lake and Cranberry Lake. From certain viewpoints, you might even catch glimpses of the Orca Islands. The historic Burrows Island Lighthouse is a significant landmark visible from the water, and can be part of a broader adventure if you combine cycling with a boat trip to the island.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Heart Lake – Heart Lake loop from Sharpe Park, a moderate 15.6-mile (25 km) route, and the Fidalgo Island Northside loop, which covers nearly 18 miles (29 km).

The region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from spring through fall. Summer months provide the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for longer rides. However, spring and autumn can offer cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them excellent choices for touring cyclists who prefer to avoid peak summer crowds.

While cycling on the mainland, you'll be immersed in natural environments where you might spot local birds and small mammals. For a more dedicated wildlife experience, particularly with marine life like bald eagles, harbor seals, and various seabirds, consider incorporating a boat trip or kayak tour to Burrows Island itself, as the island and its surrounding waters are a haven for wildlife.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, which includes dense woodlands, serene lakes, and expansive coastal views. The variety of routes, from easy loops to more challenging climbs, is also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect.

For accessing the mainland cycling routes, parking is generally available at various trailheads and parks, such as Washington Park or near Anacortes Airport. While specific public transport options directly to all trailheads might be limited, the town of Anacortes serves as a central hub and offers connectivity to the broader region.

Absolutely! Touring cyclists can plan routes on the nearby mainland and then arrange a boat trip or kayak excursion to Burrows Island. This allows you to enjoy the well-developed cycling trails on the mainland and then experience the unique island environment, its historic lighthouse, and abundant wildlife as a distinct and memorable side-excursion.

Yes, experienced riders will find several challenging routes. For instance, the View of Orca Islands – Waterfront at Washington Park loop from Western Washington University - Shannon Point Marine Center is a difficult 51.1-mile (82.2 km) trail with over 500 meters of elevation gain, offering expansive views and a significant workout.