State: WA Length: 5.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail rides along the northern and eastern shore of West Seattle along Alki Avenue. Largely riding on a widened sidewalk, separated from traffic by a parking lane and curb, traffic on the trail is separated for bikes and walkers, providing a less stressful experience for walkers and bikers alike. As the trail turns south, it runs inland toward the West Seattle bridge, which it traverses with a separated biking lane. With some tricky intersection along West Seattle Bridge, as well as high car traffic, this portion should be handled with great caution.
State: WA Length: 3.83 miles Surface: Asphalt
Meandering down an electric line corridor, this trail serves as a connector between Celebration Park and the downtown areas of Federal Way with its southwestern neighborhoods. This trail also rides alongside city offices, providing opportunity for non-motorized commuting. The BPA Trail additionally connects to the West Campus Trail, which provides access to Federal Way's medical offices. There are frequent access points to neighborhoods - highlighting its intentions as a commuting corridor for outlying neighborhoods.
Rail-Trail
State: WA Length: 17 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 17-mile Burke-Gilman Trail, managed by the city of Seattle and King County, stretches from Puget Sound east to Bothell. Built in the 1970s along part of the original Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway corridor (later Northern Pacific and then Burlington Northern), the paved Burke-Gilman was among the first rail-trails and helped inspire dozens of similar projects around the country. The western terminus begins at the south end of Golden Gardens Park on Puget Sound and heads south toward Salmon Bay. This short segment (about 2 miles) ends at Ballard Locks, along NW 54th Street just west of 34th Avenue NW. From here, cyclists will have to ride on road to the next segment, which picks up again at NW 45th Street and 11th Avenue NW. To get here, take NW Market Street to Shilshole Avenue to NW 45th Street. From here the Burke-Gilman Trail follows the waterway to Gasworks Park on what now becomes the shores of Lake Union. Continuing east, the trail passes through the campus of University of Washington. Both students and the business community account for the trail's popularity as a commuter and recreational opportunity— more than 2,000 people use the Burke-Gilman every day, making it one of the busiest commuter trails in the country. Leaving campus the trail continues through suburbia, passing Sand Point, the former Naval Air Station, and Warren G. Magnusson Park. The trail continues along the lake shore, where stops at Matthews Park and, farther 5.5 miles north, Log Boom Park, both with picnicking, restrooms, swimming and other facilities—and both quite crowded with families on summer days. From Log Boom to Bothell Park is another 3+ miles. But before you reach the park, just after crossing 96th Avenue NE, the trail forks; take the left one if you want to connect seamlessly to the Sammamish River Trail, which continues another 11 miles to King County's Marymoor Park in
State: WA Length: 17.30 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
The Cedar River Trail follows an old railroad right-of-way from downtown Renton to King County's Landsburg Park, alongside the scenic Cedar River. A greenway branch of the trail (Cedar River to Green River Trail) heads south from Whitte Road and goes another 3.75 miles to SE 276th Street, connecting through Lake Wilderness Park. The first 12.3 miles of the trail from Renton is paved, and the remainder is soft, crushed rock.
State: WA Length: 3.75 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
The Cedar to Green River Trail is an extension of the Cedar River Trail, which heads south from Whitte Road where the two trails intersect. The Cedar to Green River Trail passes through Lake Wilderness Park on its way through the Maple Valley to SE 276th Street.
State: WA Length: 30.20 miles Surface: Asphalt
Washington's Centennial Trail currently runs for 30 miles from Snohomish to the Skagit County line, linking neighborhoods with businesses and shopping districts. The trail provides a pleasant route for commuters and recreationists alike. The popular Centennial Trail is open to cyclists, pedestrians, joggers and equestrians (adjacent natural surface trail) and is accessible for all levels of physical ability. At the Machias trailhead you'll find a replica of the old railroad depot that was built here in the late 1890s to serve the Seattle, Lake Shore, and Eastern Railroad. The railroad branch between Snohomish and Arlington was bought by Northern Pacific then Burlington Northern, which stopped operating by 1987. The railroad once transported timber, ore, mail and people.
State: WA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Dirt
A well traveled trail in a mature forest, just minutes from I-5 corridor of Tacoma. This trail is rough and steep. It's not advisable in wet weather or high winds, but when dry you can follow the trail to the top. Along the steep climb up to the shoulder of the creek ravine, listen for the forest birds and forest animals. Several side trails drop down to the stream. This is not a "rail-trail." For more information on this trail, and other trails in Pierce County, Washington, please see the trail website.
State: WA Length: 20.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Thurston County Parks and Recreation Department acquired 15.5-miles of the Chehalis Western Railroad corridor from Weyerhaeuser Timber Company in 1989 and 1996. The County recently took over the northern 5 miles from Lacey to Woodward Bay and is currently building three bridges over I5, Martin Way, and Pacific to connect the segments together. To navigate this stretch, use the existing at-grade crossing of Pacific Avenue, approximately 100 yards east of where the trail touches the road. After you cross Pacific, continue east another one block until Sleater-Kinney Road. Turn right, or south, and go 100 yards to 12th Avenue. Take a right on 12th and follow until the end (approximately 300 yards). You'll find an "on-ramp" at the end of the road that leads you back to the main trail. The line operated from 1926 through the mid-1980's and was used to haul timber from the Bald Hills to Puget Sound mills. The trail runs north-south through the heart of Thurston County and features access to the Puget Sound, Chambers Lake, the Deschutes River, wetlands, forests, prairies and other habitats and scenic views of Mt. Rainier. It also features a scenic overlook at Chambers Lake and an award-winning pedestrian overpass at Yelm Highway. Trailheads are located approximately every two miles on the Thurston County Parks-owned section. The 21.5-mile trail links with the 14.5 mile Yelm-Tenino Trail.
State: WA Length: 3.60 miles Surface: Asphalt
Seattle's Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop offers scenic views of Lake Union, as well as access to parks, neighborhoods, and downtown shops and restaurants. A good place to begin your journey is at Lake Union Park at the lake's southern tip. The park offers picnic areas, a boat launch, and views of several historic ships. From the park, you can head northwest on an off-road trail that follows the western shore of the lake. At the northwestern corner of the lake, cross the Fremont Bridge to connect to the Burke-Gilman Trail, a Hall of Fame rail-trail, which will take you across the northern end of the lake. You can complete the 6-mile loop around the lake by crossing University Bridge and traveling south on-road along Fairview Avenue.
State: WA Length: 4 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Chief Sealth Trail runs north–south along Seattle's southeast side between S. Ferdinand Street at Beacon Avenue S. and S. Gazelle Street at 51st Avenue S. The paved trail provides access to neighborhoods, shopping, schools and businesses. The trail meanders along a greenway corridor in the Beacon Hill area among landscaped mounds and includes signage as well as gravel shoulders for runners. There are several confusing intersections along the trail: Heading south, at Dawson Street, the trail continues kitty-corner across Beacon Street. At Juneau Street, head east a few hundred yards and you'll see the trail again going south. Continuing south, where the trail curves east to 30th Avenue, head south on 30th, across Graham Street and you'll see the trail again next to the house. Farther south at Myrtle Place, cross Myrtle at the intersection and continue under the power lines. A short stretch of dirt path leads south to where the trail is paved again (near Webster St.). Alternatively, you can take Myrtle west to 33rd Street then head south on 33rd to S. Webster; go east toward the power lines to pick up the trail again. The Chief Sealth Trail was largely built from recycled materials—mostly soil from excavated street trenches and crushed concrete from excavated city streets. Eventually, it will connect to the future Mountains-to-Sound Greenway on Beacon Hill and light rail stations on Martin Luther King Jr. Way. There are also plans to connect the trail to downtown Seattle.
State: WA Length: 0.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Snoqualimie's 0.5-mile, paved trail runs parallel to railroad tracks and SR 202 through downtown Snoqualmie. The trail scenic trail provides a nice break for a short walk.
State: WA Length: 3 miles Surface: Ballast, Dirt, Grass
This trail follows along a preserved suburban creek valley through third growth forests once heavily used by the coal mining industry. The east end of the trail enters Cougar Mountain Regional Park, over 3000 acres and 25 additional miles of trails.
State: WA Length: 5 miles Surface: Asphalt
Paved, non-motorized trail for pedestrian and bike use. Has several large hills and areas of scenic beauty. South portion winds through the town near the SR-16. There are parking lots and bathrooms at several trail-access points.
State: WA Length: 2.95 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Duwamish Bikeway runs for nearly 3 miles, paralleling Puget Park on the city's southwest side. Along the east side of the trail are highly industrial shipping yards, making this trail more for getting from point A to point B rather than for a pleasant getaway.
State: WA Length: 11 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Occupying an old railroad corridor, the East Lake Sammamish Trail follows the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish, from Redmond south to Issaquah. The trail is a work in progress, as paving, access and the installation of amenities will continue into 2012. A 1.2-mile section of trail in Redmond is paved between NE 70th Street south to 187th Street. Closures may be in effect for other paving works, particularly at the Issaquah end in 2012. Once completed, the East Lake Sammamish Trail will be part of a 44-mile corridor from Seattle's Ballard neighborhood to Issaquah. For updates on trail paving and construction of parking and access, visit the King County website. The trail intersects with the Issaquah-Preston Trail in Issaquah near I-90.
State: WA Length: 42 miles Surface:
The 42-mile corridor that extends from Renton to Snohomish is now under public ownership. Last December, the Port of Seattle purchased the BNSF Eastside Rail Corridor, with King County purchasing a trail easement and becoming the trail sponsor. Eastside Trail Advocates is an advocacy group pushing for a trail along the length of the rail line. From the King County Rail Trail page - King County will lease the corridor from the Port of Seattle for interim use as a regional trail. From mile post 5 in Renton to mile post 25 in Woodinville, King County will construct "the granddaddy of all regional trails," knitting together all of the communities of east side of King County into an active transportation and recreation system unmatched anywhere in the nation. A once in a lifetime opportunity, the Eastside Rail Corridor represents a trail backbone that connects all other regional trails including: * 27 miles - Burke-Gilman Trail (including Sammamish River Trail) * 11 miles - East Lake Sammamish Trail * 16 miles - Cedar River Trail * 4 miles - Soos Creek Trail * 29 miles - Snoqualmie Valley Trail, and * 12 miles Green River Trail * 14 miles Interurban Trail * 17 miles - Centennial Trail in Snohomish County The northern section, from mile post 26 in Woodinville to mile post 38 at the City of Snohomish, will remain an active freight line and potential future route of the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train. The transaction continued the process that began in 2003 when BNSF announced its intention to sell the corridor. In partnership with the Port of Seattle, King County acted to prevent the corridor from being broken up and sold for private development. In 2007, the Port of Seattle agreed to purchase the rail corridor and lease the southern portion of the corridor to King County for both use as a trail and possibly an Eastside transportation corridor. Now that the initial public purchase of the corridor is complete, the Port is wor
State: WA Length: 3.35 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Elliot Bay Trail winds through two contiguous parks as it passes between the waterfront and the active Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad line. The Myrtle Edwards Park Trail runs parallel to the Elliot Bay Trail within Myrtle Edwards Park. The trail can be accessed from many points along the way and is seperated into different sections for wheels and for pedestrians. The wheels side is plagued with buckling pavement- a problem for beginners. Both trails are narrow but picturesque. The trail features a rose garden and stunning views across the bay with spectacular views of sunsets, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainer at various points. The trail provides access to popular bike routes off from 20th Avenue West and is about 1/2 mile away from the Smith Cove Marina restaurants. Along the trail, there is a kiosk outside Smith Cove Park that highlights the area's railroad and shipping history, while the Happy Hooker by the Fishing Pier provides a nice rest stop where there are restrooms and drinking water. The trail is fairly flat and wide, yet has one point around Galer Street where the trail becomes bumpy as it crosses old railroad tracks, briefly becomes very narrow, then climbs and decends a steep overpass.
State: WA Length: 30 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
The Everett–Seattle Interurban Trail runs for 30 miles between Everett, Washington, on the north (Broadway at 41st Street) and the Seattle suburb of Greenwood on the south (N. 110th Street). The route follows the old right-of-way used by the Interurban Trolley, which served Ballard and Bellingham in the early 20th century. Most of the trail is off-road but there are a few designated bike routes on-road; signs will guide you. As the name implies, the trail is a popular connector through an urban landscape north of busy Seattle. It's a great link between businesses and neighborhoods, and even accommodates horseback riders on the segments in Lynnwood and Everett, despite the asphalt surface.
State: WA Length: 28 miles Surface: Asphalt, Ballast, Dirt
The Foothills Trail is a 12-foot wide non-motorized asphalt trail and linear park suitable for bicycles, walking, in-line skates and wheel chairs. It also has a soft shoulder path for equestrians. Completed paved sections include 15 miles from Meeker through Orting to So. Prairie. There is also a 1-mile section in Wilkeson and a 1.8 mile section in Buckley. Our future plan is to continue the trail to Puyallup and Sumner where it will connect with the Interurban Trail that now extends through Kent and Auburn to Seattle. The trail in Buckley will continue north to Enumclaw and King County. The Foothills Trail has been constructed in sections as finances, environmental permits and county ownership have allowed. When complete, the trail will be more than 28 miles in length, forming the backbone of a 50-mile trail from Mt. Rainier to Tacoma. Burlington Northern Railway abandoned the railbed in 1982. The rail-trail effort started in 1984 when Dr. Tate, a Buckley physician and a community visionary, organized the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition to assist Pierce County Parks in building the trail. Despite roadblocks, construction of the trail is ongoing and thousands of users are already enjoying its benefits. Development of the Foothills Trail would not have been possible without the partnership of the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition and its members who have provided countless volunteer hours, fundraising efforts, and advocacy for non-motorized transportation in Pierce County. For further information on the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition please call (253)841-2570 or visit the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition website.
State: WA Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
From King County, Washington website:
When completed, the Foothills Trail will be 33 miles long, extending from the City of Puyallup, across the White River, ending near Kanaskat Palmer State Park.
The current project follows the abandoned historic Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway line between Enumclaw and Buckley. It is anticipated that a future bridge will be constructed across the White River to connect the trail between King and Pierce counties.
State: WA Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Concrete
From Pierce County, Washington website:
The Foothills Trail is a 12-foot wide non-motorized asphalt trail/linear park suitable for bicycles, walking, in-line skates and wheel chairs. It also has a soft shoulder path for equestrians.
Completed paved sections include 15 miles from Meeker to the South Prairie Creek in South Prairie and a 1.8 mile section in Buckley. Our future plan is to continue the trail to Sumner where we will connect with the Interurban Trail that now extends through Kent and Auburn. The trail in Buckley will continue east to Enumclaw and King County.
The Foothills Trail has been constructed in sections as finances, environmental permits and county ownership have allowed. When complete, the trail will be more than 28 miles in length.
The Green River Trail currently stretches 20 miles through the industrial heart of the valley from the southern suburbs of Seattle to Kent, connecting to a number of neighborhoods and community trails. When complete, the trail will span 30 miles by continuing north to Seattle's Alki Point and south to King County's Auburn Narrows Park. Along the way, you can access other trails such as the Duwamish Bikeway and King County Interurban Trail.
State: WA Length: 82 miles Surface: Ballast, Gravel
UPDATE: Tunnels 46-49 are currently closed, though 48 and 49 are anticipated to be reopened in spring/summer 2013. See the Washington State Parks site for detour instructions.
State: WA Length: 5.80 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
Formerly the Issaquah Creek Trail, the Issaquah-Preston Trail links the towns of Issaquah and Preston in King County, Washington. The new section between High Point and SE High Point Way is hard-packed gravel, which parallels I-90 for a stretch. The trail intersects the southern terminus of the E. Lake Sammamish Trail at I-90. The best place to start is at Pickering Farm in Issaquah, which has a paved city path leading to the actual start of the Issaquah-Preston Trail (there is no decent parking at the start of the Issaquah-Preston Trail under the I-90 bridge). From Pickering Farm, a city park, head east toward Preston, crossing Issaquah Creek in about 0.5 mile. Watch for spawning salmon in the autumn. At just under 1 mile the trail crosses a road and joins East Lake Sammamish Trail briefly before heading south to the actual trail head. The trail parallels I-90 and crosses E. Lake Sammamish Parkway SE; this is a busy interchange but there is a pedestrian crossing light. Just after 2 miles the Issaquah-Preston Trail begins to climb to a tunnel crossing under Highland Drive NE. Enjoy the bright orange wildflower sculptures on both ends of the tunnel. Paved trails branch off in both directions uphill to Highlands and downhill to Issaquah. Shortly behind the tunnel the pavement ends; most of the trail surface from here to High Point is gravel and some sections can be muddy at times from poor drainage. Though you can still hear traffic on I-90, you get nice views of the East Fork of Issaquah Creek. At 3.4 miles and 3.9 miles two hiking trails lead uphill to Grand Ridge (and eventually to Duthie Hill Park). At 4.4 miles is Exit 20, with parking for or a dozen or so vehicles. Although called High Point, the real geographic high point is at the Preston trailhead. Between Exit 20 and Preston this new section parallels I-90 for nearly 1.5 miles and crosses two new bridges. At 5.8
State: WA Length: 2 miles Surface: Dirt
The Iverson Railroad Grade Trail, located within Tiger Mountain State Forest, is popular with mountain bikers. The rolling trail is considered challenging and often gets muddy. Mountain bikers recommend riding the trail from the top down because the difficult climb in the lower segment. Other trails in the area include the Northwest Timber Trail and the Preston Railroad Trail. Often the trails are closed between October 15 and April 15. Check with Tiger Mountain State Forest for details.
State: WA Length: 14 miles Surface: Asphalt
When complete the King County Interurban Trails will total 46 miles, from Alki Point in Seattle to Auburn Narrows Park in Auburn. As of autumn 2011, only 14 miles of trail are complete, between Fort Dent Way in Tukwila and 3rd Avenue SW in Pacific. The trail follows the historic Interurban Rail Line and at its northern terminus intersects the Green River Trail at Fort Dent Way near Fort Dent Park. The two trails connect again in Kent at S. 259th Street (Foster Park). Heading south, the trail passes under I-405 to follow the power line corridor and eventually crosses the Green River valley. The trail is popular with commuters and recreationists, alike, linking neighborhoods, urban areas, business districts and parks.
State: WA Length: 17 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
The Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail is open to hikers and horseback riders. The trail can be difficult to navigate in places, since other trails link with it (some unmaintained). There are a few stream and forest road crossings. For more details and directions, visit the Web links to the right. The trail is on the Snoqualmie Ranger District of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
State: WA Length: 7.25 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
The North Creek Trail links the cities of Bothell, Mill Creek and Everett, as well as the communities in between. The trail also provides access to the Sammamish River Trail. The trail follows a wooded corridor with some gentle hills interspersed with wetlands-great for bird-watching. As of autumn 2011 the trail is broken into two disjointed segments. The northern segment in Mill Creek runs for 2.5 miles between McCollum Pioneer Park off Route 96 and 164th St. SE. The Bothell segment runs for nearly 5 miles from north of Bothell at 214th St. SE south to the Sammamish River Trail just south of Route 522. Another segment is in the works that will join the short distance between 208th Street SE and Bothell Everett Highway/SR 527 at 214th Street. In the meantime, to join the two segments cyclists must use on-street bike lanes on Bothell Everett Highway/SR-527. Note, these lanes in both directions are poorly marked (as of April 2011) and the segment of the highway between 214th St SE and 164th St SE has heavy traffic.
State: WA Length: 2 miles Surface:
Snohomish County is moving on efforts to close the gap between the two completed portions of the North Creek Trail. In late 2009, Snohomish County began Phase I of its plan to build a section of North Creek Trail between Filbert Road and North Creek Park (183rd Street SE) west of the Bothell-Everett Highway. The trail will be part of a coordinated regional system that will eventually connect the Sammamish River/Burke-Gillman Trail in King County with the Snohomish County Regional Interurban Trail in Everett. Phase I of the project consists of identifying a preferred alternative and purchasing the necessary right-of-way, which is expected to be completed before the end of 2014. Funds for Phase I, including the purchase of land for the trail, were provided by King County in accordance with the mitigation agreement for the Brightwater treatment facility located in south Snohomish County. The county is currently seeking funding for construction of the trail. On November 16, 2011, Snohomish County will hold an open house meeting to show alternatives for the north section of the trail and the recommended West Alignment for the section of the trail south of 192nd Street SE. In response to additional citizen comments, the County has identified two additional alternatives for the section of trail between 192nd Street SE and 183rd Street SE. The three alternatives, along with their pros and cons, will be on display at the November 2011 meeting. Comments from citizens will be used to select the final alignment north of 192nd Street SE. The West Alignment south of 192nd Street SE will provide the opportunity for a trail that meets WSDOT's standard of 12 feet in width for a multi-use pedestrian trail and will provide a unique opportunity to experience a natural environment in the middle of an urban area. As Snohomish County continues to develop in the future, opportunities to create these types of regional trails will be more difficult. It is the objective of the County to
State: WA Length: 2.20 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
The Northwest Timber Trail, located within Tiger Mountain State Forest, is popular with mountain bikers. The rolling trail is considered moderate on this trail but sometimes gets muddy. Other trails in the area include the Iverson Railroad Grade and the Preston Railroad Trail. Often the trails are closed between October 15 and April 15. Check with Tiger Mountain State Forest for details.
State: WA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) encompasses about 126 miles between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The trail travels east—west the width of the Olympic Peninsula between Port Angeles and the Pacific Ocean at La Push, home to the Quileute Native Peoples. As of autumn 2011, roughly 40 miles of the paved ODT are complete. The Olympic Discovery Trail is a continuation of the Iron Horse State Park Trail and the John Wayne Pioneer Trail. The ODT also forms a significant portion of several larger trails, including Senator Patty Murray's proposed Olympic Peninsula Loop Trail and the Seattle-Vancouver-Victoria-Port Angeles to Seattle Loop. Part of the ODT will follow the corridor of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. The trail passes along tribal lands and incorporates historical sites of interest, as well as providing scenic views of the mountains and the sea. From west of Lake Crescent, the Olympic Discovery Trail West - Forest and Ocean Section will continue west to LaPush, 41.6 miles. As of autumn 2011, only 1.5 miles of the trail is complete in LaPush. Cyclists can join this section along an on-road route from the western terminus of the Olympic Discovery Trail West Central - Lake and Foothills Section.
State: WA Length: 1.50 miles Surface:
The Prairie Line Trail will be an excellent example of an urban trail that brings people right through the heart of downtown Tacoma, passing through the revitalized Brewery District, the University of Washington, museums and mixed use developments on the way to the waterfront. The Prairie Line operated until 2003 and was just abandoned in 2009 and is in the process of being acquired by the City of Tacoma and University of Washington. The Prairie Line Trail will play an important part in connecting to the Cushman Trail and Foothills Trail and completing a network of linked trails for Tacoma.
State: WA Length: 7.50 miles Surface: Ballast
Long been unmaintained, the Pratt River Trail in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is getting a partial face lift. As of 2012, 3.25 miles of the lower part of the trail is being rerouted and rebuilt to provide access for hiking. For more information, contact the Washington Trails Association or the MBS National Forest.
State: WA Length: 3.20 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Preston Railroad Trail, located within Tiger Mountain State Forest, is popular with mountain bikers. The rolling trail follows a contour line around East Tiger Mountain and can be bumpy in places with tree roots and rocks. The trail provides nearly 1,000 vertical feet of hill on switchbacks. Other trails in the area include the Iverson Railroad Grade and the Northwest Timber Trail. Often the trails are closed between October 15 and April 15. Check with Tiger Mountain State Forest for details.
State: WA Length: 6.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail rewards users with an interesting view of Snoqualmie Falls after experiencing several miles of western Washington forests. A short series of switchbacks near the mid-point can be a challenge to some users.
State: WA Length: 4.10 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Puyallup Riverwalk Trail traces the tree-lined shoreline in northern Puyallup, a few miles southeast of Tacoma. The paved pathway consists of two completed segments with about a mile of residential roadway and sidewalks in between. As you travel alongside River Road, you'll catch glimpses of the water on one side and commercial areas on the other. A mall at the Meridian Avenue crossing offers places to stop and eat. The trail ends on the outskirts of Sumner. From here, the adventurous can continue their journey on the Foothills Trail. From the Riverwalk's eastern-most endpoint, cross under Main Avenue and go south on 134th Avenue through rural landscapes for about 1 mile to make the connection just off 80th Street. The scenic rail-trail stretches about 15 miles through the towns of Alderton, Orting and South Prairie.
State: WA Length: 3.90 miles Surface:
From City of Redmond:
On June 30, 2010, the City of Redmond acquired the Redmond Spur of the Woodinville Subdivision of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Rail Corridor, which extends approximately 3.9 miles from the junction of SR-520 and Redmond Way in Southeast Redmond to the intersection of Willows Road and NE 124th Street in the Sammamish Valley neighborhood. The master planning process will include an integrated design that ties the north and south sides of Downtown together to develop a cultural corridor within the heart of the City. The City is committed to developing this project to the highest standards of urban design and functional engineering. -------- Purchased in June of 2010, these tracks will soon serve as a major north-south trail line for Redmond and the Sammamish Valley community. With the recent acquisition of a $2.3 million federal grant, the Redmond Central Corridor will receive funding for its inital one mile segment of trail. Expected to be completed by 2012, this trail segment will extend from Redmond Way and Avondale Rd. (SR-520) through downtown Redmond to the area near Redmond Way & Bear Creek Parkway.
State: WA Length: 3 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel
Nice beginner mountain bike trail. Has lots of up and down hills, corners, little stumps. It is a great workout and a place to practice some technical stuff. Great scenery, and surprisingly is you go the 3 miles and come back, the 6 mile back & forth is quite tiring. On a good day you will see some wildlife like deer, beavers, birds, etc. After some rain there are quite a few puddles and some muddy areas. If you don't mind getting a lot dirty its is really fun.
State: WA Length: 2.53 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The delightful Ruston Way Path sits in the Old Town neighborhood of northern Tacoma. Its linear, flat and paved nature make it a cinch for all travelers and it offers lovely views of Commencement Bay, sandy beaches and majestic Mount Rainier. The trail begins in Jack Hyde Park and continues northwest along its namesake roadway through a series of small waterfront parks, where you'll find great places to stop and enjoy the scenery or take part in more active pursuits, such as scuba diving, kayaking or fishing. If you need refreshments, several restaurants also line the path. Not far from the Les Davis Pier (3427 Ruston Way), you'll come across the landlocked Fireboat No. 1. The boat, bright red and 96 feet in length, was built in 1929 and is designated a National Historic Landmark. The pathway ends at the former American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) site, originally built the late 1800s and closed in the 1980s. Since then, this EPA-designated Superfund site has been undergoing remediation with plans to make it a mixed-use community area.
State: WA Length: 11 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
The Sammamish River Trail skirts the Army Corps of Engineers river that connects Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington. It connects to the East Lake Sammamish Trail at Marymoor Park and runs north through Redmond, the Bicycle Capitol of the Northwest, past Chateau St. Michelle, Columbia, and other wineries, Redhook Brewery and Wilmot Park in Woodinville, Blythe Park and Bothell Landing in Bothell, and meets up with the Burke-Gilman Trail at the top of Lake Washington in Kenmore to round out the famous Lake Washington Loop. It serves as the "interstate" for bicycle commuters not allowed to cross Lake Washington on SR 520 between Seattle and the Eastside. It hosts many walking, running, and charity events such as the American Lung Associaton Seattle Marathon.
State: WA Length: 5 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Scott Pierson Trail extends along the State Route 16 corridor from 25th Street in Tacoma to Stone Drive near Gig Harbor. The five-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail is named in honor of City of Tacoma Landscape Architect and Urban Planner, Scott Pierson (1943-2001).
State: WA Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt
The highly urban Seattle Waterfront Pathway is a continuation of the Elliot Bay Trail and carries on south from Broad Street south to South Royal Brougham Way. The trail parallels Alaskan Way along Elliot Bay, past ferry terminals, cruise ship docks, restaurants, the aquarium, and a park. It's a great place for watching cruise ships in this vibrant city.
State: WA Length: 1.14 miles Surface: Asphalt
South of its big brother (the Burke-Gilman Trail), the Ship Canal Trail runs from the Fremont Bridge west along the canal near Seattle Pacific University, and east/ south beside Lake Union. The trail will eventually link the Burke-Gilman Trail with the Emerson Street bike path; Once this occurs it will be possible to bike from Redmond to downtown Seattle almost entirely on non-motorized paths. The Ship Canal Trail is popular with dog-walkers and joggers.
State: WA Length: 31.50 miles Surface: Ballast, Gravel
The Snoqualmie Valley Trail traverses one of northwest Washington's most beautiful agricultural landscapes, passing through several communities and taking in parks, natural areas and farmland. In addition, the trail incorporates railroad trestles along the route. At its southern end at Rattlesnake Lake, the Snoqualmie Valley Trail connects to the Iron Horse State Park Trail. There is a gap in the trail near the town of Snoqualmie, between SE Reinig Road and Tokul Road; both require that you use stairs to access the trail from the road. On Tokul Road, you'll find the trail on the north side of the road near the guard rail just west of SE 60th Street. Use Mill Pond Road between Reinig and Tokul to bridge the 2.4-mile gap.
State: WA Length: 5.75 miles Surface: Asphalt
This north-south corridor through the city of Kent, Washington is a fully-paved, Class I trail through heavily wooded forests. Following the path of the Soos Creek, this trail begins in the Lake Meridian region and travels northward toward Meeker Middle School. Mid-way through the trail, at SE 216th St., riders have the option to ride on Class III path toward the 9-mile Lake Youngs widened sidewalk Class I trail. Plans are in motion to extend the Soos trail to the Cedar Creek Trail at Route 169 (SE Renton Maple Valley Road).
State: WA Length: 2.30 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Gravel
The Sylvia Creek Forestry Trail is located in Lake Sylvia State Park north of Montesano on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. The interpretive trail winds through the deep forest and alongside scenic creeks and ponds. The trail follows an old logging railroad line along the west shore of the lake, leaving from the boat launch. You can combine it with other trails to loop around the lake. It's a great place for watching wildlife, especially birds, and peaceful retreat. Download the interpretive brochure (link to the right) for a description of what to see along the way.
State: WA Length: 8 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
Scenic and interesting . Not terms normally used to describe a trail alongside a freeway, but the I-90 Trail is different. It starts in Belleuve and runs 8.5 miles across Lake Washington and Mercer Island to end beyond the Sam Smith Park in Seattle. In that distance you get to cross a high bridge, a floating bridge, explore two parks on lids over the freeway, take in the views along the lake, ride though a bike/ped tunnel under the Mt. Baker ridge and do some ascents and descents. Lots of things to see and never a dull moment. Plus, you only get to ride alongside the cars on the two bridges and when they leave the lid. Elsewhere they are behind landscaped sound walls, beneath the lid parks or in the tunnel.
State: WA Length: 12 miles Surface: Dirt, Gravel, Sand
The Tolt Pipeline serves as a major connection between Duvall, WA and the Sammamish River. This trail follows a water pipeline right-of-way and is not recommended for all trail go-ers. The majority of traffic on this trail consists of mountain bikers and horseback riders. Due to the many steep grades along the trail, as well as the gravel/dirt surface, bicyclists must be aware of the limitations of their equipment. Conveniently, the Tolt Pipeline Trail's western terminus in Blyth Park intersects with both the Sammamish River Trail and the Burke-Gilman Trail. It moves eastward on an ungraded surface - making the many hill climbs exhausting. Additionally, the wide cut of the pipeline's right of way ( up to 100 ft) provides little escape from the sun. At West Snoqualmie Valley Road NE, riders can continue via street access to Duvall's portion of the Tolt Pipeline Trail at nearby Duvall Park.
State: WA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
The name "Wallace", after which the falls, river, lake and mountain are named, is Indian in origin named after Sarah "Kwayaylsh". Joe and Sarah "Kwayaylsh", members of the Skykomish Indian Tribe, homesteaded near the present town of Startup (which was also named Wallace until 1901). Gold Bar, the nearest town to the park, was named after the gravel bars in the Skykomish River, on which the Chinese railroad workers used to pan for gold. Railroad, logging, mining, and lumbering all dominated the early economy.
State: WA Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Asphalt
The West Campus Trail provides access from the BPA Trail to Federal Way's West Campus medical centers. Conversely, this trail services the many neighboring communities with an off-street, Class I trail, which connects to Celebration Park (soccer fields, baseball diamonds, general recreation) through the BPA Trail. Access trail from BPA Trail west of its intersection with 1st Way S, SW 330th St, or SW 325th Pl
State: WA Length: 56 miles Surface: Asphalt, Ballast, Crushed Stone
The Willapa Hills Trail runs 56 miles between Chehalis and South Bend in Washington state. Formerly a Northern Pacific Railway, this corridor was rail banked and is in the process of being converted into a rail-trail. Though both ends are paved, there are several trestles that are unimproved or have been washed away in the 2007 floods and a large portion of the trail is still ballast and may be covered with brush. Both trestles are scheduled to be replaced by FEMA in the next 2 years. The Chehalis section is paved for 5.2 miles from the new trailhead on SW Hillberger Road out to a new trailhead (parking, with restrooms coming soon) behind the high school in Adna and across Bunker Creek Road. This section offers a charming pastoral ride through dairy country, with two nice bridges that survived the 2007 floods. A half mile past Bunker Creek Road is Trestle #5, which is unplanked and not considered usable at this time, though there is a plan to deck it with local donated materials and labor in the near future. On the other side of Trestle #5, a 1.3 mile segment is accessible from Clinton Road and the surface has recently been compacted and graveled but the Ceres Trestle at mile 6.5 is washed out. A 9.5 mile segment of gravel and compacted trail extends from the washed out Ceres Trestle at mile 6.5 to the Dryad Trestle at mile 16 and is excellent for cycling or walking. It passes near Rainbow Falls State Park at the center of the segment. This segment can be accessed from Ceres Hill Road or Chandler Road near Dryad. From the Dryad Trestle to Raymond the trail is largely unimproved with the surface primarily ballast and overgrown with brush in areas. An additional segment from Dryad to Pe Ell is scheduled for compacting and gravel in the summer of 2011. The 5-mile section from Raymond to South Bend is paved and follows the Willapa River. The Willapa Hills Trail has modest grades and gorgeous views of the river and valley. There are plans
State: WA Length: 5 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Gravel
The Woodland Trail connects the cities of Olympia and Lacey with a linear trail and park along the abandoned Burlington Northern corridor. The 5 mile long trail connects in the center with the Chehalis Western Trail to form a wonderful network in Thurston County. Olympia had to negotiate access from many adjacent landowners after the railroad abandoned the line, but held to the vision of a trail created by active citizens and organizations. The Master Plan for the trail was completed in 1999 and became the number one parks priority in the comprehensive plan. The trail in Olympia is well shaded and green, while the Lacey side parallels a busy street and passes through a couple traffic circles. Volunteers have been busily planting trees along the corridor that will bring great benefits as they mature.
State: WA Length: 14 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Yelm-Tenino Trail runs for nearly 14 miles between the trail's namesake towns, following the old corridor of the Burlington Northern Railroad. The trail also links the community of Rainier, which is near the midpoint. Begin near Yelm City Hall and end in Tenino City Park. The trail parallels State Route 507 while passing through a mixed landscape of farmland, forested areas and suburban back yards. You'll also pass by a lake and cross the Deschute River. The Yelm-Tenino Trail intersects with the 22-mile Chehalis Western Trail just east of the river.