The best cycling routes in Nolte State Park

Nolte State Park offers a variety of touring cycling routes, ranging from easy, mostly paved loops suitable for families to more challenging rides with significant elevation gains and unpaved sections. The landscape features a tranquil glacial lake, old-growth forests, and varied terrain at the western edge of the Cascade Mountains.

Yes, for an easy and mostly paved option, consider the Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw. This 15.5-mile route is suitable for various skill levels and offers a pleasant ride. Additionally, within Nolte State Park itself, there's an easy, flat 1.4-mile loop trail around Deep Lake, perfect for a quick ride or families with children.

For those seeking a challenge, the Black Diamond Bakery – Fell Hill loop from Enumclaw is a 41.2-mile route with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Lake Wilderness – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley Gardens, which spans over 62 miles and includes substantial climbs.

The routes around Nolte State Park feature a mix of surfaces. Some, like the Foothills Trail, are mostly paved, offering a smooth ride. Other routes, such as the Green River Rearing Ponds – Nolte State Park loop from Cumberland, include segments on unpaved surfaces, adding to the varied terrain experience.

While cycling, you'll encounter the serene Deep Lake, a 39-acre glacial lake, and ride through preserved old-growth forests. The park also offers sandy beaches, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including various salmon species and birds, especially around Deep Lake and the nearby Cedar River.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Green River Rearing Ponds – Nolte State Park loop from Cumberland and the Foothills Trail loop from Enumclaw are both popular circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

The touring cycling routes in Nolte State Park are appreciated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain and the scenic beauty of Deep Lake and the old-growth forests. Over 20 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, indicating its popularity among local riders.

Yes, a Discover Pass is required for entry to Nolte State Park. You can find more information about the pass and its requirements on the official Washington State Parks website: parks.wa.gov.

Nolte State Park is a day-use park with designated parking facilities available for visitors. Ensure you display your Discover Pass when parking within the park.

While specific data on the best cycling season isn't provided, Nolte State Park is generally enjoyed for day-use recreation. The park's amenities and natural beauty, including Deep Lake, suggest that spring through fall would offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, allowing enjoyment of the lake and forest surroundings.

Yes, Nolte State Park is very family-friendly. It features sandy beaches for swimming, fishing piers, picnic areas with tables and grills, and playgrounds. These amenities make it an excellent spot for cyclists to take a break or spend time with family after a ride.

There are 4 touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Nolte State Park area, offering a range of distances and difficulties to suit different preferences.