The best cycling routes in Pierce County

Pierce County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 60 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.

The late summer, particularly late July and early August, is an excellent time for touring cycling in Pierce County. During this period, wildflowers bloom on the slopes of Mount Rainier, offering spectacular scenery. The region generally provides diverse cycling options throughout many seasons due to its varied landscapes.

Yes, Pierce County has numerous options suitable for families and beginners. There are 18 easy routes and 31 moderate routes. Trails like the Foothills Trail are popular multi-use paths, and the Ruston Way Waterfront Path offers a scenic, paved ride along Commencement Bay, ideal for a relaxed outing.

For more challenging rides, consider routes that venture towards Mount Rainier. The Sunrise Park Road route, for example, is a difficult 31.7-mile path featuring significant climbs and stunning views of Mount Rainier. There are 14 difficult routes available for experienced cyclists.

Many routes offer breathtaking scenery. You can enjoy views of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. Notable attractions include the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, which you can cross on routes like the Cushman Powerline Trail – Tacoma Narrows Bridge loop. Other highlights include the Skyline Trailhead and Panorama Point Summit within Mount Rainier National Park.

Yes, some areas offer access to waterfalls. Within Mount Rainier National Park, routes like the Longmire, Paradise, Valley Road, and Ruby Falls loop feature waterfalls. You can also find highlights such as Little Waterfall and Little Mashel Falls – Middle Falls in the region.

Yes, Pierce County features several circular routes. Examples include the Cushman Powerline Trail – Tacoma Narrows Bridge loop and the Narrows Viewpoint – Ruston Way Waterfront Path loop. These loops provide varied scenery without needing to retrace your path.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 80 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths with water views to routes offering majestic vistas of Mount Rainier, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.

Many trails in Pierce County have dedicated parking and access points. For detailed information on specific trailheads and parking facilities, you can consult resources like the official Pierce County Parks and Trails website at piercecountywa.gov/Bike-Trails or piercecountywa.gov/Parks-Facilities-Trails.

Yes, routes like the Ruston Way Waterfront Path in Tacoma are easily accessible from urban centers and offer amenities along the way. The Pipeline Trail in Tacoma also connects major transit, neighborhoods, and parks, providing convenient access to urban facilities.

Absolutely. Pierce County's diverse landscape allows for combining cycling with other activities. Many trails, such as the Foothills Trail, are multi-use and popular for walking, inline skating, and even horseback riding. You can also find opportunities for hiking in areas like Mount Rainier National Park, which is a short drive from many cycling routes.

The terrain in Pierce County is quite varied. You'll find smooth, paved paths along waterfronts and through parks, as well as more rugged sections and significant ascents when heading towards mountainous areas like Mount Rainier. This variety ensures options for all types of touring cyclists.