Mountains to Sound Trail and Mercer Island Loop

The full loop, as mapped on komoot, is about 54.6 km (34 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete by race bike. This duration can vary based on your cycling speed and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

This route is generally considered moderate. While it's almost entirely paved, Mercer Island itself features rolling hills and one notable climb. It's often recommended for new cyclists looking for a challenge or for those wanting a training ride, making it accessible but not entirely flat.

While the route can be accessed from various points, starting from Issaquah, as this komoot tour suggests, offers convenient parking options. You can also find access points and parking in Seattle or Bellevue, particularly near the I-90 trail segments.

The route is almost entirely paved, making it ideal for road cycling. A significant portion involves crossing the I-90 floating bridge over Lake Washington, which is relatively flat. Once on Mercer Island, expect rolling hills and a 'ridiculously fun bit of windy roads' on the east side, including one notable climb and descent.

You'll experience unique views while crossing the I-90 floating bridge, offering expansive perspectives of Lake Washington and glimpses of the Seattle and Bellevue skylines. Highlights include the View of Lake Sammamish and Mount Baker, the East Channel Bridge, and the View of Mt. Rainier over Lake Washington on clear days.

The route is enjoyable year-round, but spring through fall offers the most pleasant weather for cycling. Clear days provide the best visibility for stunning views of Lake Washington and Mount Rainier. Be aware that the I-90 bridge can be windy, especially during colder or stormier months.

While the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trail generally allows dogs on leash, cycling with dogs on this specific route, especially on the I-90 trail and Mercer Island roads, might be challenging due to traffic noise and the nature of road cycling. It's best suited for human-powered cycling.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Mountains to Sound Trail or the Mercer Island Loop. These trails are part of the public infrastructure and are freely accessible for recreation.

Given that the route connects Seattle, Mercer Island, and Bellevue, you'll find various amenities in these urban areas. Mercer Island itself has a town center with cafes and shops. Restrooms can typically be found in parks or public facilities along the way, especially in the larger cities.

Yes, this route is a key part of the broader Mountains to Sound Greenway Trail system. It also intersects with sections of the I 90 Bike Trail, Lake to Lake Trail, and Newport Way Trail, offering opportunities to extend your ride or explore other paths in the area.

Riding across the I-90 floating bridge is a defining feature of this route. It's one of the world's longest floating bridges and offers a dedicated bike lane, providing a safe connection between Seattle and Mercer Island with expansive, unmatched views of Lake Washington from all sides.