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United States
Washington
King County

Maple Valley

The best traffic-free bike rides around Maple Valley

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 29, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Maple Valley, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails, it's tough to figure out which ones are truly worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – sifting through countless routes to find those perfect, car-free stretches can be a real headache. That's why we've tapped into komoot's community, who have ridden and reviewed these routes, to bring you a curated shortlist that saves you the guesswork.

Touring cycling in Maple Valley is all about lush forests, serene lakes, and the winding Cedar River. The terrain offers a great mix, from flat, easy-going sections along river trails to some enjoyable rolling hills, making it accessible for various fitness levels. You'll find distinct zones, from the tranquil Lake Wilderness area to the scenic Cedar River corridor. While many routes are open year-round, the fall offers a unique spectacle with thousands of sockeye salmon visible along the Cedar River Trail.

If you only do one route, we'd point you straight to the Lake Wilderness – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley. At 64.3 miles (103.4 km) with 2,517 feet (767 m) of climbing, it's a challenging, long-distance ride that truly showcases the region's diverse beauty. For something a bit more moderate but still incredibly rewarding, the Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School is a fantastic choice at 30.0 miles (48.3 km), offering a great mix of paved and unpaved sections. Dive in and discover why over 200 touring cyclists have already explored Maple Valley with komoot.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Cedar River – Cedar River Trail loop from Maple Valley
  2. 2

    Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School
  3. 3

    Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Cedar River – Cedar River Trail loop from Maple Valley

106 km

800 m

Hard

Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School

48.3 km

400 m

Moderate

Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley

14.8 km

80 m

Easy

Cedar River Trail – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley

17.8 km

160 m

Moderate

Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School

8.55 km

30 m

Easy

Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley

9.23 km

50 m

Easy

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1.

Cedar River – Cedar River Trail loop from Maple Valley

106km

07:04

800m

800m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2.

Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School

48.3km

03:05

400m

400m

The Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School offers a delightful touring cycling experience, weaving through wooded river valleys and past the tranquil Lake Wilderness. You'll encounter a diverse landscape, from paved paths following the historic railroad grade to a 3-mile dirt and gravel section on the Cedar River Pipeline Road, providing a varied and engaging ride. Keep an eye out for the Cedar River itself, which offers scenic views and the chance to observe salmon during their migration season.

This moderate 30.0-mile (48.3 km) cycling route, with 1300 feet (396 metres) of elevation gain, is a great option for those seeking a ride that combines natural beauty with a bit of a challenge. Expect to spend around 3 hours and 5 minutes on the trail. Starting from Tahoma High School, it's a convenient loop that requires a touring bicycle capable of handling both smooth asphalt and unpaved sections.

One of the highlights of this route is the opportunity to witness Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon in the Cedar River during the fall spawning season, a truly unique natural spectacle. The trail also passes by the 117-acre Lake Wilderness Park, offering a chance to explore its arboretum or enjoy lakeside views. This combination of riverside wildlife, historic trail segments, and a beautiful lake makes it a notable cycling route in the Maple Valley area.

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5.

Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School

8.55km

00:44

30m

30m

The Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School offers an easy 5.3-mile (8.5 km) touring cycling experience, perfect for a leisurely outing. You'll pedal through a mix of paved and compacted gravel paths, enjoying views of Lake Wilderness and lush forestland. The route's gentle 107 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain makes it accessible for nearly everyone, and you can expect to complete it in about 43 minutes, soaking in the peaceful scenery.

This route is easily accessible from the Tahoma High School area, connecting you to the broader network around Lake Wilderness Park. The trails are multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with walkers and runners. While generally well-maintained, the surface transitions between paved and gravel, which is good to know for your touring bike. It's a great option for a casual ride any time of day, especially if you're looking for family-friendly cycling routes near Tahoma High School Maple Valley.

What makes this area special is its extensive connectivity, linking to the Green to Cedar Rivers Trail and the Cedar River Trail, both converted from former railroad routes. This rail-trail heritage means consistently gentle grades, making for a smooth ride. Lake Wilderness Park itself provides additional amenities like picnic spots, enhancing the overall experience beyond just the cycling.

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6.

Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley

9.23km

00:40

50m

50m

This easy touring cycling route offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and accessible paths, perfect for a quick escape. You'll pedal along the Cedar River Trail and the Green-to-Cedar Rivers Trail, enjoying a mix of paved and hard-packed gravel surfaces that wind through lush forests. The highlight is undoubtedly the tranquil Lake Wilderness, offering beautiful views, and if you visit in the fall, you might even spot sockeye salmon spawning in the Cedar River.

Planning your ride is straightforward; this 5.7-mile (9.2 km) loop with only 177 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 40 minutes. It's an easy route suitable for most riders. As the Cedar River Trail is quite popular, arriving earlier in the day is a good idea to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience, especially around Lake Wilderness Park.

This trail system is notable for its use of a former railroad corridor, making for a generally flat and accessible path. It connects Maple Valley to significant natural spaces like Lake Wilderness Park, often called the “Crown Jewel” of the area. The route offers a unique opportunity for wildlife spotting, particularly the salmon in autumn, and provides a peaceful transition between urban and rural settings.

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Tips from the Community

oliviakellis
June 29, 2025, Landsburg Reach Natural Area

Landsburg Reach Natural Area comprises nine parcels totaling 24 acres, creating a serene sanctuary. While predominantly offering minimal public use, one parcel provides essential trail connections between Danville/Georgetown trails and the Cedar River Pipeline Road. The area holds potential for future acquisitions, promising expanded land support and opportunities for exploration.

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0

Lake Wilderness is the largest lake in Maple Valley and has a namesake lodge that is designated a King County landmark.

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0

AaronLavanchy
December 8, 2023, Cedar River

Originating in the Cascade Range, the Cedar River flows for 45 miles before emptying into Lake Washington. The Cedar River hosts populations of sockeye, coho, and Chinook salmon, steelhead, and trout, making it a prime spot for fishing.

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0

The trail follows the river for 17.4 miles, from Landsburg, downstream to the mouth of the Cedar River, where it empties into Lake Washington.

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1

Anette
March 10, 2022, Cedar River Trail

The trail follows the former rail bed. Its suitable for cycling and hiking with beautiful and scenic parts.

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0

Eradicator
September 10, 2020, Black Diamond Bakery

Great spot to stop for coffee / pastry break, or full lunch if you need a bit more!

0

0

missed the right way to ceder river trail

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Maple Valley?

Komoot offers 13 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Maple Valley. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 easy, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult option to explore the region's beautiful landscapes.

What types of terrain can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in Maple Valley?

Maple Valley's no-traffic routes offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find extensive paved sections, particularly along the Cedar River Trail, which is ideal for smooth touring. Some routes also incorporate soft-surface paths and gravel sections, providing a varied experience through lush forests and open lands. The region features a blend of flat river trails and gentle rolling hills.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Maple Valley?

Yes, Maple Valley has several easy, no-traffic routes perfect for families. The Lake Wilderness loop from Dorre Don Reach Natural Area (9.8 km) and the Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School (8.5 km) are both easy options that offer pleasant rides around the lake with minimal elevation gain, suitable for all ages.

What are the best routes for a longer, more challenging no-traffic touring ride?

For a longer and more challenging no-traffic touring experience, consider the Lake Wilderness – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley. This difficult 103 km route features significant elevation changes and allows you to immerse yourself in the region's diverse scenery, including both Lake Wilderness and the Cedar River.

Can I find circular no-traffic touring routes in Maple Valley?

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Maple Valley are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School and the Cedar River Trail – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley, allowing you to explore without needing to retrace your steps.

What natural attractions can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?

Maple Valley's no-traffic routes offer access to several beautiful natural features. You can cycle along the scenic Cedar River Trail, which follows the Cedar River, or enjoy the tranquility of Lake Wilderness. The Soos Creek Trail and Soos Creek Duck Pond are also accessible, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and serene landscapes.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Maple Valley?

The no-traffic touring routes in Maple Valley are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from 36 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the beautiful natural scenery along the Cedar River and Lake Wilderness, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.

Are there any specific regulations for cycling with dogs on these trails?

While many trails in Maple Valley are dog-friendly, specific regulations can vary by trail section or park. Generally, dogs are required to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the official King County Parks website for the most current rules regarding pets on trails like the Cedar River Trail or in areas around Lake Wilderness. For more information on the Cedar River Trail, you can visit King County's official page.

Where can I find parking for no-traffic touring cycling routes in Maple Valley?

Parking is generally available at various access points for the major trail networks. For routes utilizing the Cedar River Trail, you can often find parking near trailheads in Maple Valley or Renton. For routes around Lake Wilderness, parking is typically available at public parks or access points around the lake. Specific parking details are often provided within individual komoot tour descriptions.

What is the best season for no-traffic touring cycling in Maple Valley?

Maple Valley offers enjoyable cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved sections might be muddy or have seasonal closures due to weather. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Are there any cafes or places to eat near the no-traffic cycling routes?

Yes, Maple Valley has various cafes and restaurants, particularly in the town center, which are accessible from many of the local cycling routes. Along the Cedar River Trail, you might find options in nearby towns like Renton. For routes around Lake Wilderness, there are establishments within a short distance. Planning your route with komoot allows you to discover points of interest, including eateries, along your chosen path.

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