The best traffic-free bike rides in Saddlebag Island Marine State Park

The Cranberry Lake loop near Anacortes offers a delightful escape into a vibrant evergreen island growth forest. As you navigate the route, you'll be treated to serene views of Cranberry Lake and the lush surroundings, with the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles. The trail itself is primarily singletrack, featuring a mix of loamy surfaces, occasional rocks, and roots, providing a dynamic and engaging ride through a diverse ecosystem of forests, marshes, and meadows.

Planning your visit to this popular cycling trail in Anacortes is straightforward, as it's part of the extensive Anacortes Community Forest Lands. While the 8.3-mile (13.3 km) loop with 662 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes, it's rated moderate due to its technical sections. This route is best suited for mountain or gravel bikes, as traditional touring bikes might struggle with the uneven terrain. Local maps are available to help you explore the wider trail network.

This hidden gem bike trail near Anacortes is a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its natural spaces. The Anacortes Community Forest Lands encompass 2,800 acres, offering not just the Cranberry Lake loop but over 50 miles of multi-use trails. Beyond the cycling, Cranberry Lake itself is known for its inviting swimming holes, making it a perfect spot to cool off after your ride. The area provides a high-quality outdoor experience, blending natural beauty with active recreation.

If you're seeking a challenging touring cycling adventure with a mix of coastal beauty and varied terrain, the March Point Heronry – Waterfront at Washington Park loop is a fantastic option. This difficult 42.6-mile (68.6 km) route, with its 2081 feet (634 metres) of elevation gain, will take you approximately 4 hours and 19 minutes to complete. You'll cycle past the March Point Heronry, enjoy extensive water views along Fidalgo Bay on the Tommy Thompson Parkway, and navigate the rolling hills and diverse surfaces of Washington Park, with potential glimpses of Mount Baker on clear days.

Starting from the March Point Heronry Conservation Area, this loop offers convenient parking. Be prepared for a mix of paved and unpaved sections, especially within Washington Park, where some grades can be steep. Cyclists should be aware of broken clam shells on the Tommy Thompson Parkway, which can be a hazard for skinny tires. The best time to visit is during drier weather to fully enjoy all segments of the route.

This March Point Heronry Waterfront at Washington Park loop cycling trail is highly rated for its diverse landscapes and enjoyable routes, combining quiet streets with dedicated bike lanes. The opportunity for wildlife viewing, particularly the herons, adds a unique dimension to the ride. Anacortes, a short detour, offers cafes and pubs for a well-deserved break after your ride.

The Mitten Pond loop from Anacortes offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the heart of the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. You'll pedal through lush evergreen forests, past tranquil wetlands, and alongside the picturesque Mitten Pond, known for its peaceful marshland. This moderate 10.5-mile (16.9 km) route, with its 809 feet (247 metres) of elevation gain, provides a scenic journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 34 minutes, making it perfect for a refreshing outing on unpaved surfaces.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Anacortes Community Forest Lands feature an extensive network of multi-use trails. While specific parking information for the Mitten Pond loop isn't detailed, the area is well-equipped for visitors, and trail maps are easily accessible both online and in Anacortes. Given the varied terrain, it's advisable to check local conditions and aim for drier days to fully enjoy the dirt and mud paths.

What makes this route particularly appealing is its integration into the nearly 2,800 acres of the ACFL, offering over 50 miles of trails for exploration. This allows you to easily extend your ride by connecting to other trail systems, such as those around Heart Lake, via well-marked paths. The diverse ecosystems also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, adding another layer to your outdoor adventure.