Seattle, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant city life, offers some of the most stunning scenic bike trails that cater to a range of skill levels, from beginner cyclists to experienced riders. With an array of serene waterfront paths, forested trails, and dazzling city skylines, there’s something for every bike enthusiast in the Emerald City.
One of the top, family-friendly bike routes includes the Burke-Gilman Trail, a 20-mile, paved, and flat path that stretches across the northern half of Seattle. Connecting Shilshole Bay to Lake Washington, this highly-trafficked trail follows the route of a historic railroad, offering an unforgettable experience for all trail-goers. Another popular trail, Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, features a scenic 6-mile loop around Lake Union that showcases the city’s beauty while remaining accessible for riders of all skill levels.
For a more compact adventure, cyclists can explore the 2.9-mile loop around Green Lake in Green Lake Park, a local favorite that provides a laid-back, picturesque ride.
Whether you’re a Seattle native or a visitor looking to explore the city’s cycling scene, these top scenic bike trails offer the perfect way to take in the stunning environment and diverse culture that make Seattle a remarkable destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Seattle’s Top Scenic Bike Trails
Burke-Gilman Trail
The Burke-Gilman Trail, a popular 27-mile multi-use trail, is the perfect combination of natural beauty and urban convenience. The trail connects the growing neighborhoods of Seattle with parks, beaches, and recreational areas.
- Paved Surface: Ideal for all skill levels
- Popular activities: Biking, walking, and jogging
- Points of interest: Gas Works Park, Magnuson Park, and Golden Gardens Park
Alki Beach Trail
Alki Beach Trail is an excellent option for cyclists who enjoy lovely waterfront scenes. This 5.5-mile trail runs along Elliott Bay’s shoreline, offering panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and the Seattle skyline.
- Moderately trafficked: Popular among locals and tourists
- Surface type: Mostly paved with some sections on roadways
- Highlights: Alki Beach, Statue of Liberty Plaza, and Luna Park
Interurban Trail
The Interurban Trail is a regional trail system that extends from Tukwila to Everett. In Seattle, the 24-mile paved trail passes through various residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and parks.
- Trail connectivity: Connects to various local trails and bicycle routes
- Terrain: A combination of flat and rolling hills
- Attractions: Bitter Lake Reservoir Park and Twin Ponds Park
Green River Trail
Flowing alongside the Green River, the Green River Trail is an 18-mile path offering a tranquil ride through lush forests, wetlands, and open meadows. The trail is known for its diverse ecosystems, bird-watching opportunities, and picturesque scenery.
- Paved and well-maintained: Suited for all skill levels
- Activities: Biking, walking, and wildlife observation
- Notable locations: Fort Dent Park, Tukwila Community Center, and Riverview Park
Safety Tips While Biking
When biking on Seattle’s scenic trails, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Here are some practical tips to ensure an enjoyable and secure biking experience:
- Be visible: Make sure to wear bright, reflective clothing to help drivers and others on the trail see you, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime rides. Adding reflective tape to your bike and gear can also increase your visibility.
- Helmets are a must: Wearing a properly fitted helmet is crucial in reducing the risk of head injuries in case of an accident. Make sure the helmet meets the necessary safety standards and is snug on your head.
- Follow traffic rules: When biking on shared streets, respect traffic signals and signs. Signal your turns and follow the same rules as motor vehicles. Be aware of the rights of other trail users and follow any posted trail etiquette guidelines.
- Stay on the designated trails: Preserve nature and keep yourself safe by sticking to the designated bike trails in Seattle. Avoid off-trail biking to prevent damaging plants, causing erosion, or disturbing wildlife.
- Maintain your bike: Regularly check your bicycle for any issues, such as faulty brakes, low tire pressure, or a loose chain. A well-maintained bike is crucial for ensuring a safe ride.
- Ride defensively: Always be aware of your surroundings and assume that others may not see you. Keep a safe distance from cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Focus on anticipating potential hazards and reacting quickly.
- Use appropriate hand signals: Be sure to use hand signals when turning or stopping, to communicate your intentions with other cyclists and drivers.
By following these safety tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable biking adventure on the beautiful scenic trails in Seattle.
Popular Stops Along the Trails
Seattle offers a variety of scenic bike trails, each with its picturesque views and popular attractions along the routes.
Burke Gilman Trail
The beloved Burke Gilman Trail stretches 27 miles from Ballard to Bothell, offering fantastic views and enjoyable stops along the way. While cycling, make sure to visit:
- Gas Works Park for a panoramic view of the Seattle skyline and Lake Union
- University of Washington Campus with the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Green Lake Trail
Another stunning trail, the Green Lake Trail, is located inside Green Lake Park. This 2.9-mile paved path provides the following highlights:
- Scenic views of the lake itself
- Abundant wildlife and vegetation
- Excellent spots for picnic and relaxation
Interurban Trail (South)
The Interurban Trail (South) stretches 15 miles from downtown Seattle to Tukwila. Along this intermediate bike trail, stops worth considering include:
- Picturesque south Seattle neighborhoods
- Tukwila’s light rail station, providing a convenient return option to the city center
While biking along these scenic trails, make sure to take some time to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings and discover some of the captivating stops mentioned above. Enjoy your ride!
Bike Rentals and Tours
Seattle offers numerous options for bike rentals and guided tours, allowing you to explore the city’s scenic trails and paths with ease. Here are a few popular options for bike rentals and guided tours in the city:
- Pedal Anywhere Seattle: Offering short-term and long-term bike rentals, Pedal Anywhere Seattle provides a wide range of bikes to suit your needs. You can easily rent a bike for a day or even several weeks.
- Montlake Bicycle Shop: Located near the University of Washington, Montlake Bicycle Shop offers daily bike rentals and a selection of road, hybrid, and electric bikes. Their knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations on the best trails and routes to explore around Seattle.
For those interested in guided bike tours to explore scenic trails and discover Seattle’s neighborhoods and nature, consider the following options:
- Seattle Mountain Bike Tours: Offering a variety of guided mountain bike tours led by BICP-certified guides, Seattle Mountain Bike Tours ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. They offer a Snoqualmie Tunnel Mountain Bike Tour, which lasts 5 hours, and have a guest-to-guide ratio of 4:1.
- Emerald City Bicycle Tour: This tour offers an opportunity to explore some of Seattle’s iconic locations, including Gas Works Park, Ballard Locks, and the Olympic Sculpture Park. The tour lasts about 3 hours and covers roughly 15 miles, making it suitable for riders of various skill levels.
Several scenic bike trails that you can enjoy in Seattle include the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, Burke-Gilman Trail, and the Elliott Bay Trail.
Conclusion
Seattle offers a diverse selection of bike trails that cater to various interests and skill levels. One such trail is the 27-mile Burke-Gilman Trail, running from Ballard to Bothell, serving as both a popular commuting route and recreational trail for all.
For those looking for a shorter ride with beautiful scenery, consider the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop. This 6-mile paved path is great for those who enjoy bike loops and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.
Another option is the Interurban Trail, splitting into north and south sections. The north trail stretches from Seattle to Everett, while the south trail begins in Tukwila and ends by the Pacific.
Finally, for a relaxing ride within a beloved park, the 2.9-mile Green Lake Trail offers a peaceful loop around the scenic Green Lake.
In summary, whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Seattle has a number of scenic bike trails to explore and enjoy. So, gear up and experience the beauty of the Emerald City on two wheels.
