The best road cycling routes in Tolmie State Park

The "Roadbike loop from Devils Head" offers a rugged, scenic adventure, though it's important to note this route is best suited for gravel or mountain bikes rather than traditional road bikes. You'll navigate through landscapes ranging from glades of tall aspens and unique rock formations in Colorado, leading to the historic Devil's Head Fire Lookout with its 360-degree panoramic views, to dense forests and rocky outcrops in Wisconsin. Expect a challenging ride with significant elevation changes and unpaved surfaces, making it a rewarding experience for those prepared for off-road conditions. This moderate route covers 22.2 miles (35.7 km) with 1369 feet (417 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Planning your visit requires a bike capable of handling dirt roads or mountain bike trails. Parking is usually available at access points, but it's wise to confirm local regulations and conditions, especially for the dirt road access to the Devil's Head Fire Lookout in Colorado. The route is best enjoyed during dry seasons to avoid challenging muddy or loose terrain. Always carry plenty of water, as amenities are limited, and be mindful of potential seasonal closures or weather impacts, particularly in higher elevations or ski resort areas.

Both Devils Head locations are renowned for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities, albeit primarily for off-road activities. In Colorado, the Devil's Head Fire Lookout stands as the last operational fire lookout in the state, offering a unique historical element. In Wisconsin, the area is a significant mountain biking destination nestled in the glacier-formed Baraboo Bluffs, providing stunning views and diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts.

This Chehalis Western Trail Woodard Bay loop cycling route offers a delightful mix of natural scenery and urban exploration, perfect for a relaxed ride. You'll begin at the Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area, a wildlife haven with Puget Sound views, before cruising along the paved Chehalis Western Trail through forests, prairies, and past the Deschutes River. The route then takes you into Olympia, where you can pause at the historic McMenamins Spar Café, making for a varied and engaging journey.

To make the most of this moderate 20.5-mile (33.0 km) cycling route, which features a gentle 481 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes, plan to start early, especially on weekends. Parking is available at Woodard Bay, but it can fill up quickly. The well-maintained, paved surface means it's suitable for most road cyclists and families, and the marked road crossings contribute to a safe experience.

The Chehalis Western Trail is a significant part of Thurston County's trail network, repurposing a historic railroad corridor. This particular loop offers a unique blend of the trail's natural sections, like those near Woodard Bay with its wildlife spotting opportunities, and the urban amenities of Olympia. It's an excellent option if you're looking for accessible cycling routes Olympia WA that combine outdoor activity with a chance to explore local points of interest.

The Sequalitchew Creek Trailhead – Garry Oaks Park loop from Pola Andre Park offers a surprisingly diverse ride, despite its listed easy difficulty. You'll pedal through a narrow, forested canyon along the historic "Dynamite Train" route, enjoying views of moss-covered trees and the trickling Sequalitchew Creek. The route eventually opens up to Puget Sound, with potential glimpses of the Olympic Mountains, and takes you through the unique Garry oak groves of Garry Oaks Park. However, be prepared for mixed surfaces, including gravel and dirt sections, which make this 10.0 miles (16.1 km) route with 219 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain more suited for hybrid or mountain bikes than traditional road bikes.

Starting at Pola Andre Park, this route is part of the extensive DuPont Trails System. While the estimated duration is a quick 38 minutes, plan for extra time if you're on a road bike and need to navigate the unpaved sections. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing these parks, but always check local regulations. Consider visiting during drier months to avoid potentially muddy conditions on the Sequalitchew Creek Trail.

This loop is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, following an old railroad grade. The presence of native Garry oak trees in Garry Oaks Park highlights a unique regional ecosystem. While the city of DuPont boasts over 12 miles of trails, this particular loop offers a taste of varied terrain and scenic viewpoints, making it a distinctive option among cycling routes in DuPont, WA, especially for those seeking a less conventional ride.