The best traffic-free bike rides in Thurston County

Thurston County offers over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes, providing a variety of options for cyclists looking for peaceful rides away from vehicles. These routes range from easy, shorter rides to more moderate, longer excursions.

You'll experience a diverse range of landscapes, from wetlands and farmlands to dense wooded areas and old-growth forests. Many routes also offer scenic coastal views along Puget Sound, as well as salt and freshwater marshes, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.

Yes, Thurston County has several easy, paved trails perfect for families. The Chehalis Western Trail – Chehalis Western Trail loop from Olympia-Lacey is an excellent option, offering a smooth, car-free experience. Another great choice is the Monarch Sculpture Park – Deschutes River loop from Olympia-Lacey, which is also easy and provides interesting sights along the way.

Many routes pass by or are close to significant natural and cultural attractions. You can explore the unique Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, known for its mysterious mounds, or visit the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds. The Loop from Olympia to the Mima Mounds is a great way to experience the Mima Mounds. Other highlights include the Capitol Lake and the Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Chambers Lake – Chehalis Western Trail loop from Yelm offers a moderate 69.5 km journey. Another moderate option is the Chehalis Western Trail – Chambers Lake loop from Gull Island, covering 61.5 km with some elevation changes.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Thurston County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained paved trails, and the beautiful natural scenery that makes for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Thurston County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Loop from Olympia to the Mima Mounds and the various Chehalis Western Trail loops, such as the Chambers Lake – Chehalis Western Trail loop from Yelm.

Thurston County has a comprehensive trail system. For additional details on the county's efforts to develop and maintain its trails, you can visit the official Thurston County Public Works Parks and Trails website: thurstoncountywa.gov.

Absolutely. The Chehalis Western Trail and the Yelm-Tenino Trail are part of a larger interconnected system, making it easy to cycle between different towns and areas. These trails provide smooth, off-road paths that link urban and rural parts of the county.

The Chehalis Western Trail and the Yelm-Tenino Trail are central to the no-traffic cycling network. The Karen Fraser Woodland Trail Wetlands also offers a pleasant crushed rock path, providing ample space and views of native trees and plants.

Many of the routes, especially those that pass through or near towns like Olympia, Lacey, Yelm, and Tenino, offer access to cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. The Thurston Bountiful Byway, while not entirely traffic-free, highlights numerous stops including creameries, farmers' markets, and wineries that are accessible from connecting roads and trails.