Seattle: Lake Washington & Alki Trail Loop

This combined loop is rated as moderate by komoot, but its difficulty can range from moderate to hard depending on your fitness level and the specific route variations you choose. While the Alki Trail portion is generally flat, the Lake Washington Loop introduces significant challenges with climbs spread throughout the route, including notable inclines like Shorewood Drive.

The terrain is quite varied. The Alki Trail section is mostly paved, urban, and flat. As you transition to the Lake Washington Loop, you'll find more paved sections, but also some areas with gravel shoulders and even short gravel portions that can often be bypassed. Be prepared for both flat stretches and rolling hills.

You'll experience stunning views throughout the ride. Along the Alki Trail, enjoy panoramic vistas of Elliott Bay, the Seattle skyline (including the Space Needle), Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. On clear days, Mount Rainier is visible. The Lake Washington portion offers views of Lake Washington, Mercer Island, and Bellevue, passing through areas like the Washington Park Arboretum and Seward Park.

The komoot estimate for this 62.4 km (38.8 miles) route is around 2 hours and 50 minutes of pure riding time. However, given the varied terrain and elevation gain, and if you're taking breaks to enjoy the scenery, a full completion could take significantly longer, especially for those with moderate fitness. Many cyclists plan for a half-day or full-day excursion.

Parking options vary depending on where you choose to start. For the Alki Trail section, you can often find street parking in West Seattle or use public lots near Alki Beach. For the Lake Washington Loop, various parks around the lake, such as those near Gas Works Park or Seward Park, offer parking. Consider public transport or a water taxi to Alki Beach for a car-free start.

While the trails themselves are generally open to dogs, specific rules regarding leashes and waste disposal apply in different park areas and municipalities along the route. Always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them. Some sections, especially busy urban areas, might not be ideal for cycling with a dog.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October) when the weather is drier and temperatures are mild. Summer offers the clearest views of the mountains. Be aware that parts of the route can get very busy on sunny weekends, especially the Alki Trail.

No, you do not need any special permits or pay entrance fees to cycle the public trails and roads that make up the Seattle: Lake Washington & Alki Trail Loop. However, standard parking fees may apply if you choose to park in certain paid lots or garages.

Yes, this loop is well-connected to Seattle's extensive trail network. It incorporates significant portions of the Lake Washington Loop and the Alki Trail. It also intersects with or runs parallel to other popular trails like the Burke-Gilman Trail and the Sammamish River Trail, offering opportunities for longer rides or alternative routes.

Absolutely! Both the Alki Trail and the Lake Washington Loop pass through numerous urban areas and neighborhoods. You'll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops, particularly in West Seattle (Alki Beach), Fremont, University District, and various towns around Lake Washington. Bike shops are also accessible in these areas for any repair needs.

The full 62.4 km loop with its elevation gain is generally considered challenging and best suited for cyclists with good to very good fitness. However, sections like the main 3-mile portion of the Alki Trail are relatively flat and easy, making them suitable for families or beginners looking for a shorter, more leisurely ride. You can choose to ride only a portion of the loop.