The best cycling routes around Ballard
4.5
(37)
471
riders
45
rides
Touring cycling around Ballard, Seattle, offers diverse landscapes including waterfront views, lush parks, and extensive trail networks. The area features significant natural elements like Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Lake Washington, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Key infrastructure includes dedicated bike paths such as the Burke-Gilman Trail and the Ship Canal Trail, connecting different parts of the neighborhood and beyond.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballard
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney…
Last updated: August 7, 2026
1
riders
39.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Cycle the moderate 24.6-mile Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a touring bicycle route offering scenic views and challenging terra
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19.6km
01:15
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
70
riders
43.7km
02:30
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
59
riders
44.9km
02:41
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Taaffes Castle (2026-08-07): https://taaffescastle.com/ TRIPADVISOR (Taaffes Castle Bar, 2026-08-07): https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Restaurant_Review-g315880-d2223151-Reviews-Taaffes_Castle_Bar-Carlingford_Cooley_Peninsula_County_Louth.html
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This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.
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The Tholsel is undoubtedly one of the most unique structures in the heart of Carlingford. This medieval city gate, originally built in the 15th century, is the only remaining gate from the original town wall and served for centuries as the ceremonial and administrative entrance to the town.
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Above the medieval street pattern, which dominates the silhouette of Carlingford, stands the imposing ruin of Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle. This castle was built around 1190 by the Norman knight Hugh de Lacy and was for centuries the strategic key to the entrance of Carlingford Lough.
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Small, elevated Calvary hill on the edge of Omeath, with a short path leading up to a series of white crosses on an open grassy plateau. The spot offers a quiet moment above the village, with clear views towards Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills.
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As you enter Newry via the canal route, you are greeted by an impressive tribute to the fallen: the Newry War Memorial, marked by an authentic 25-pounder gun. This artillery piece, an icon of World War II, symbolizes the courage and sacrifice of the local people during global conflicts. The Gun: It is an Ordnance QF 25-pounder, the main British field gun of World War II, known for its versatility and mobility.
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The Crack Bridge, also known as Fearon’s Bridge, is one of the most characteristic stone arch bridges over the Newry Canal. This historic structure is located on a beautiful, secluded section of the towpath between Poyntzpass and Jerrettspass. This robust, semi-circular arch bridge from the 18th century is built from locally quarried stone and forms an iconic image along the Newry Canal Towpath. The bridge was originally built to give local farmers and their livestock access to the farmlands on both sides of the canal without hindering navigation.
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Ballard area?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Ballard, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballard?
Ballard's touring cycling routes offer a mix of terrain. You'll find flat stretches, particularly along waterfront paths like sections of the Burke-Gilman Trail, as well as more challenging climbs within parks such as Discovery Park and around Sunset Hill, providing varied riding experiences.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballard?
Yes, Ballard offers 5 easy touring cycling routes. These are great for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, a moderate route like the Newry to Jerrettspass loop on the Newry Canal Path, which is about 12.2 miles (19.6 km) long, provides a gentle experience along canal-side paths.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I can see while cycling in Ballard?
Ballard's routes offer stunning views. You can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from Golden Gardens Park and Sunset Hill Park. On clear days, Mount Rainier is also visible. The Ballard Locks provide a unique perspective on the connection between Puget Sound and the lakes, and Discovery Park offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, featuring the iconic West Point Lighthouse.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in Ballard for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists, there are 20 difficult routes available. A challenging option is the Newry to Castlewellan loop, which spans 66.3 miles (106.8 km) and includes significant climbs, rewarding riders with expansive views.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along Ballard's cycling routes?
While cycling in Ballard, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks) are an engineering marvel with an underwater fish ladder and the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens. Nearby, you can also find natural attractions like Camlough Lake and Bessbrook Pond. For historical sites, consider visiting the Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Ballard?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ballard are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example of a moderate circular route is the Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, covering 24.6 miles (39.6 km) with diverse scenery.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballard?
Ballard offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. The spring and summer months typically provide the most pleasant weather with longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the waterfront paths and parks. However, the varied landscapes can be appreciated in all seasons, with autumn offering beautiful foliage and milder temperatures.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options in the Ballard area?
Yes, Ballard's connectivity to regional trail networks allows for longer rides. While specific routes vary, you can link up with extensive trails like the Burke-Gilman Trail, which runs for miles and connects to other parts of Seattle, offering opportunities for extended touring adventures.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Ballard?
The touring cycling routes in Ballard are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from stunning Puget Sound vistas to lush parks, and the well-integrated trail networks that offer options for all skill levels.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Ship Canal?
Yes, the Ship Canal Trail runs parallel to the Ship Canal, providing an enjoyable route for cyclists and offering views of the waterway. This trail is particularly useful for connecting from the Ballard Locks towards areas like Fremont, enhancing your touring experience.
Can I access the Ballard Locks by bike?
While the Ballard Locks serve as a crucial link for accessing different cycling routes and offer unique scenic views, cyclists are generally required to dismount and walk their bikes when crossing the locks. This allows you to enjoy the engineering marvel and the fish ladder up close.
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