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Road cycling routes
United States
Washington
King County

Nolte State Park

The best road cycling routes in Nolte State Park

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 29, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Nolte State Park, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and what's just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.

Road cycling around Nolte State Park is all about embracing the serene beauty of the western Cascade Mountains. Expect routes that wind through landscapes characterized by a tranquil glacial lake, old-growth forests, and gentle terrain, with the park's Deep Lake often serving as a picturesque backdrop. While the park itself has a short, accessible loop, the real gems for road cyclists are found in the surrounding area near Enumclaw and the Green River Gorge, offering everything from moderate to difficult rides.

For a fantastic introduction to the area, we'd start with the Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw, a moderate 14.1 miles (22.6 km) route that offers a great payoff for minimal effort. If you're looking for a longer day in the saddle with more varied terrain, the Foothills Trail – Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw at 33.5 miles (53.9 km) is a local favorite. With over 170 road cyclists having used komoot to explore this region, you're in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite ride!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Foothills Trail – Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw
  2. 2

    Cedar River Trail – East Channel Bridge loop from Summit Ridge Trailhead
  3. 3

    Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Foothills Trail – Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw

54.0 km

300 m

Moderate

Cedar River Trail – East Channel Bridge loop from Summit Ridge Trailhead

106 km

630 m

Hard

Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw

22.6 km

140 m

Moderate

Cedar River Overlook – Cedar River Trail loop from Black Diamond Open Space

61.8 km

410 m

Moderate

Southeast Green Valley Road – Flaming Geyser Hill loop from Kentlake High School

42.3 km

310 m

Moderate

Neighborhood Trail Shortcut – Foley’s Produce loop from Kentlake High School

51.2 km

470 m

Moderate

Quiet and Smooth – Black Diamond Bakery loop from Kentlake High School

35.1 km

390 m

Moderate

Rocky Trail – Kanaskat-Kangley Road loop from Kentlake High School

44.3 km

300 m

Moderate

Foley’s Produce – Soos Creek Trail loop from Kentlake High School

69.5 km

640 m

Moderate

Soos Creek Trail – Soos Creek Trail loop from Kentlake High School

51.5 km

410 m

Moderate

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1.

Foothills Trail – Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw

54.0km

02:25

300m

300m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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2.

Cedar River Trail – East Channel Bridge loop from Summit Ridge Trailhead

106km

05:26

630m

630m

The Cedar River Trail – East Channel Bridge loop from Summit Ridge Trailhead offers a diverse road cycling experience, transitioning from paved paths to packed gravel. You'll follow the Cedar River, cycling through open fields and dense forests of Douglas fir and bigleaf maple, with scenic viewpoints along the way. The section between Maple Valley and Landsburg is particularly picturesque, winding through a forested environment.

This difficult 65.8-mile (105.9 km) route involves a significant 2082 feet (635 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the Summit Ridge Trailhead, and it's wise to check for any underpass closures, especially during winter or high water. This route is best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a long, challenging ride.

Historically following an old railroad corridor, the trail is mostly flat with gentle grades, despite its length and overall elevation gain. A unique natural feature is the opportunity to witness thousands of sockeye salmon spawning in the Cedar River during the fall, a truly vibrant spectacle visible from various points along the trail.

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3.

Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw

22.6km

01:10

140m

140m

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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5.

Southeast Green Valley Road – Flaming Geyser Hill loop from Kentlake High School

42.3km

01:51

310m

310m

The Southeast Green Valley Road – Flaming Geyser Hill loop from Kentlake High School offers a delightful blend of rural scenery and engaging terrain for road cyclists. You'll wind through active farmlands and lush hills on Green Valley Road, enjoying both long flat sections and rolling hills, all leading up to the notable challenge of Flaming Geyser Hill. The route passes by Flaming Geyser State Park, providing scenic views of the Green River and a unique natural setting, making it a great escape from urban environments.

This moderate 26.3-mile (42.3 km) ride, with 1014 feet (309 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 50 minutes, is well-suited for beginner to intermediate cyclists. The primary challenge comes from the steep Flaming Geyser Hill climb, but the low car traffic on Green Valley Road ensures a peaceful and enjoyable experience. Consider starting early to make the most of the quiet roads and enjoy the rural charm.

What truly sets this route apart is its combination of low traffic and varied challenges, offering a well-rounded workout that keeps the ride engaging. The proximity to Flaming Geyser State Park also provides a convenient rest stop with amenities, and the route's connectivity to other regional trails like the Green River Trail allows for longer rides if you wish to extend your adventure.

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7.

Quiet and Smooth – Black Diamond Bakery loop from Kentlake High School

35.1km

01:40

390m

390m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Tips from the Community

maniboyflex
June 29, 2025, Foothills Trail

The Foothills Trail is a mostly paved 21-mile path from Puyallup toward Mount Rainier, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Enjoy views of Mount Rainier, wildlife, and historic sites like Melmont ghost town. Multiple access points make it easy to explore sections at your pace.

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This spot along the Cedar River Trail is a great spot to stop and view the river or take a break just below the overpass for South Jones Road.

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Love this bridge. Would love it more if the trail actually crossed over the old broken bridge just one tenth of a mile farther north...

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This is a fantastic viewpoint along the river, and the paved section of trail here is easily done on a road bike.

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The Foothills Trail parallels the Carbon River for many miles, but your view is often obscured by foliage. Here you get a clear view of the river from the trail, as well as the verdant flora overhanging its banks.

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When they are open, this is a perfect rest stop on any day out. The Cedar River trail is right across the street.

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Nice view across Washington lake towards Mount Rainier, other snow-covered Mountains and the Boeing facilities.

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Fun, shady, curvy section of road along the east side of Mercer Island. Watch for deer crossing the road!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes can I find in Nolte State Park and the surrounding area?

There are 4 dedicated road cycling routes available in and around Nolte State Park, offering a variety of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community.

What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes near Nolte State Park?

The region offers a mix of terrain, from the easy, flat 1.4-mile loop within Nolte State Park itself, to longer routes with gentle gradients and quiet roads. You'll encounter landscapes characterized by a glacial lake, old-growth forests, and river valleys, with some routes featuring varied terrain through the region's foothills.

Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Nolte State Park?

Yes, Nolte State Park is very family-friendly. The park's internal 1.4-mile loop trail around Deep Lake is easy, flat, and suitable for all ages, including those with strollers. It offers a pleasant ride with scenic views and benches for resting.

What are some popular longer road cycling routes in the Nolte State Park region?

For longer rides, local cyclists enjoy routes such as the Kanaskat-Kangley Road – Quiet and easy rollers loop from Franklin, which is 32.3 miles, or the Foothills Trail – Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw, a moderate 33.5-mile path offering varied terrain.

What is the best time of year for road cycling in Nolte State Park?

While specific weather patterns vary, the region's natural beauty, with its old-growth forests and lake, is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for combining cycling with swimming in Deep Lake.

Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the road cycling routes?

Yes, the routes in this region are rich with natural beauty. Nolte State Park itself features the stunning Deep Lake, surrounded by towering old-growth forest. You can expect picturesque views of the water and lush Pacific Northwest trees like Big Leaf Maples and Vine Maples, especially along the park's loop trail.

Can I spot any wildlife while road cycling in Nolte State Park?

Nolte State Park is home to various wildlife. Cyclists and visitors often observe turtles sunning on logs, ducks, geese, herons, and even bald eagles, particularly around Deep Lake and within the old-growth forest areas.

Is parking available for road cyclists at Nolte State Park?

Yes, Nolte State Park provides parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check the official park website for current parking information and any potential fees or passes required, such as the Discover Pass for Washington State Parks.

Are there any cafes or restaurants near Nolte State Park for a post-ride refuel?

Nolte State Park is located near Enumclaw, Washington. You'll find various cafes, restaurants, and pubs in Enumclaw where you can refuel and relax after your ride. The park also has picnic areas with tables and grills if you prefer to bring your own food.

What is the difficulty level of road cycling routes in the Nolte State Park area?

The routes in the Nolte State Park region cater to different ability levels. While the park's internal loop is easy, the broader network includes moderate routes like the Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw (22.6 miles) and more difficult options such as the Cedar River Trail – East Channel Bridge loop from Summit Ridge Trailhead, which is 65.8 miles.

What do other road cyclists say about their experience in Nolte State Park?

The road cycling routes in Nolte State Park and its vicinity are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the serene atmosphere, the beautiful lake views, and the well-maintained paths that offer a refreshing outdoor experience.

Are there any permits or passes required for road cycling in Nolte State Park?

As a Washington State Park, a Discover Pass is typically required for vehicle access to Nolte State Park. This pass supports the maintenance and operation of state recreation lands. You can find more information on pass requirements on the official Washington State Parks website: parks.wa.gov.

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