The best traffic-free bike rides in San Juan Island National Historical Park

There are 5 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in San Juan Island National Historical Park. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty, offering options for various fitness levels.

Yes, there are two easy no traffic touring cycling routes. The Friday Harbor loop from Friday Harbor (10.4 km) and the Friday Harbor loop from San Juan County (9.7 km) are both excellent choices for a relaxed ride, perfect for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous experience.

The routes primarily feature mostly paved surfaces, making for smooth touring. However, some segments may be unpaved, adding a bit of variety and a more challenging element to certain rides. You'll experience diverse environments, including prairies, grasslands, and quiet woodlands.

The routes offer opportunities to explore significant historical sites. You can visit English Camp — San Juan Island National Historical Park, one of the main sections commemorating the 1859 "Pig War" standoff. The broader San Juan Island National Historic Park itself is rich in history, with historic structures and visitor centers at both American and English Camps.

Absolutely. The park is known for its splendid vistas and saltwater shores. You can enjoy panoramic views from Mount Finlayson at American Camp. The South Beach Driftwood Beach, also at American Camp, is the longest public beach in the islands, offering extensive driftwood and views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Olympic Mountains. The shoreline also provides opportunities to spot orca whales and explore tidepools.

The summer months are particularly popular for bike tours on San Juan Island due to favorable weather. However, the island offers beautiful cycling conditions throughout the warmer seasons, generally from late spring through early autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak.

For those seeking a longer, moderate challenge, consider the Friday Harbor loop from Friday Harbor, which covers 47.2 km with significant elevation gain. Another moderate option is the Friday Harbor loop from Ten Mile Point, spanning 34.4 km.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 28 ratings. Reviewers often praise the blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and the welcoming nature of the island's roads for cyclists, especially the quiet woodlands and scenic coastal views.

Yes, all the no traffic touring cycling routes listed are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the False Bay Marine Preserve loop from Friday Harbor Airport and various Friday Harbor loops.

Parking is generally available at key access points. For routes originating near Friday Harbor, you can find parking within the town. Within the National Historical Park, bike racks are available at the American Camp Visitor Center and the English Camp parking lot, which can serve as starting points for your rides.

Biking is permitted on county roads and specific park sections, such as American Camp (from the Visitor Center to Redoubt Road) and the Mitchell Hill section of English Camp. However, it's important to note that biking is not allowed on hiking trails within the park. For detailed information, you can consult the National Park Service's bicycling guidelines: NPS Bicycling Information.

Beyond the historical park, you can visit Lime Kiln Point State Park, often called "whale watch park," which is an excellent spot to look for orcas. Roche Harbor is a historic resort town with a charming village atmosphere, and the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park is also nearby. Friday Harbor itself serves as a hub with various services and attractions.