The best traffic-free bike rides in Snohomish County

The Snohomish & Lord Hill loop via Broadway Avenue offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, weaving through a mix of paved and unpaved sections. You'll pedal through lush forests dense with Douglas Fir and Western Hemlock, past serene Beaver Lake, and along the Snohomish River, where you might spot local wildlife like bald eagles. As you climb, particularly along the Pipeline Trail, expansive views of the Snohomish River valley unfold, with the Cascade and Olympic Mountains visible on clear days, creating a truly rewarding ride.

This moderate 30.6-mile (49.3 km) route, with 1057 feet (322 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete. While much of it is paved, expect some unpaved and potentially muddy sections within Lord Hill Regional Park, especially after rain, so choose your bike accordingly. Lord Hill Regional Park is open from 7 AM until dusk, and no parking pass is required, making access straightforward. Downtown Snohomish provides a perfect spot for a mid-ride break.

What makes this route stand out is its unique blend of urban and natural environments, seamlessly integrating sections of the historic Centennial Trail with the wilder paths of Lord Hill. This combination offers both well-maintained cycling and opportunities for wildlife viewing, from deer to rabbits, in a diverse ecosystem. It's a great choice for those seeking a varied workout with plenty of scenic rewards and a chance to explore the natural features of the Snohomish River area.

This easy touring bicycle route from Lowell Riverfront Park to Snohomish offers a delightful escape into nature and rural charm. You'll pedal along the Snohomish River, where the Lowell Riverfront Trail provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like eagles and river otters, all while enjoying potential views of Mount Baker and Mount Rainier on clear days. The route then transitions to the Lowell Snohomish River Road, winding through a picturesque pastoral landscape dotted with flower farms and grazing cows, making for a truly relaxing ride.

Planning your trip is straightforward; the route is largely considered easy and suitable for all skill levels, covering 17.1 miles (27.5 km) with a gentle 323 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Parking is available at Lowell Riverfront Park, which also has restrooms and water. Keep an eye on river levels, as occasional flooding can affect the park area.

What makes this route special is its blend of reclaimed industrial land turned natural park and bucolic countryside, offering a unique perspective on the Snohomish River valley. The destination, Snohomish, provides a perfect reward with its charming antique shops and local eateries, including a popular bakery that's a favorite among cyclists. It's an ideal choice for a leisurely day out on two wheels.

Pedal along the Snohomish River on the Langus Riverfront Park to Spencer Island Park via Langus Riverfront Trail, an easy 4.8-mile (7.7 km) touring cycling route that takes about 26 minutes to complete. You'll enjoy stunning views of the river and its vast wetlands, especially as you approach Spencer Island Park, a renowned spot for wildlife spotting. The trail is mostly paved, offering a smooth ride through a rich natural environment where you might spot everything from migratory birds to river otters, with only 42 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible year-round thanks to Everett's mild climate. Langus Riverfront Park serves as an excellent trailhead, offering amenities like a boat launch and fishing pier. While the route is largely family-friendly, be mindful that some northern sections of Spencer Island may be unmaintained or subject to seasonal hunting, so it's always good to check local conditions before heading out.

This route stands out as one of the best cycling trails near Everett, WA, offering a unique blend of urban proximity and wild nature. Spencer Island Park, a 413-acre intertidal refuge, is home to over 350 species of birds, making it the largest wetland near an urban center on the West Coast. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a leisurely ride with high natural reward, perfect for beginner cycle routes or a relaxed afternoon outing.