The best traffic-free bike rides in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
5.0
(7)
125
riders
10
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area traverse a landscape shaped by glacially-carved terrain, featuring U-shaped valleys and numerous lake basins. The region is characterized by diverse vegetation, ranging from temperate rainforests on lower western slopes to subalpine forests and alpine meadows. While the core wilderness has restrictions on mechanized transport, several routes border or access the area, offering off-pavement experiences through forests and along the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail: Hyak to Easton, a 35.8 miles (57.6 km) trail that takes 5 hours 19 minutes to complete. This route follows a section of the historic railway, offering a relatively flat path through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Washington Timber Trail, a difficult 34.8 miles (56.0 km) path. This trail winds through forested areas, providing a challenging ride with significant elevation gain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the South Cle Elum – Lake Easton State Park loop from Hyak, a 61.1 miles (98.3 km) trail leading through forested valleys and past Lake Easton, often completed in about 9 hours 7 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area is defined by glacially-carved terrain, extensive forests, and U-shaped valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to challenging multi-hour rides.
- The routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 8 reviews. More than 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
29
riders
57.6km
05:19
360m
360m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
56.0km
05:58
1,320m
1,320m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
18
riders
98.2km
09:06
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
36.2km
03:29
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
38.0km
03:35
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
Tips from the Community
Alice Creek Campground is right at the trailhead for the CDT. It’s free, first-come-first-served, with basic sites, a vault toilet, and access to some great hiking or riding. Bring bear spray and be prepare for the gravel road.
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The Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail is a long gravel route across Washington, great for bikepacking or long rides. The Snoqualmie Tunnel is a must—dark, damp, and fun (bring lights). Expect wind and remote stretches, so pack water and gear. Riding over trestles and through changing landscapes keeps things interesting the whole way.
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I am always amazed how different this lake looks in the spring (full) versus the fall (almost empty). Those "Seals" are visible in the fall but then go for a long swim in the winter and spring...
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The State Park is on the West shore of Lake Easton - very nice campground. An excellent overnight spot in the Spring/Summer/Fall when doing the Palouse to Cascades trail. Worth looping around the lake to see it from all sides and experience the tunnel and bridges. Decent provisions available in town.
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This is a bucket list item and crowning point for a daytrip up and back from Rattlesnake Lake. The 18-mile ride up to the Pass is relatively easy railroad grade and doable, even if you don't think you can get up here. But the highlight is then going through the tunnel to a completely different world on the other side. Definitely bring a jacket (it's maybe 45 degrees in there?) and absolutely deck your bike in the brightest lights you can find. The drip, drip, drip of water and murmurs of other people will follow you throughout the 2.3 mile tunnel. There is a very nice rest area in Hyak on the East side of the tunnel - lots of water, a bike repair stand and tools, and a nice spot for a picnic before you turn around and zoom down the trail in a third of the time it took to come up. Or you can continue on to the East if you want!
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Near the Alice Creek Campground, the terrain looks a lot like J.R.R.Tolkien's Middle Earth. Second breakfast, anyone?
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If you have been riding West to East, this is what you have been waiting for. A unique bridge over the Yakima River. You can cross the river, stand on one side, stand on the other, stand in the middle. The bridge doesn’t mind either way. Very high quality bridge that doesn’t move when you walk on it because it used to support trains. A great place to reflect on things that have happened and say well “that’s water under the bridge”, and you’ll be both literally and figuratively correct at the same time. Can’t beat that.
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This is more of a lowlight. I'm not gonna lie... But you need to be warned. This section between Easton trailhead and the Yakima River bridge #4 just West of Cle Elum has very little going for it. It is flat; very flat. It has gravel; lots of loose gravel with two narrow hard-pack lines you need to stay within to move along. It parallels I-90, which creates a loud constant roar that battles the crunch of gravel for your hearing pleasure. Long parts of it are straight; very straight. The view is exactly the same the whole way; a hedge to the North and farmland to the South. Mostly, you are going to be looking forward to getting through this part of the trail. Think of it as purgatory, but also think of it as the price you will pay to visit the much more pleasant parts of the trail at either end.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
There are 11 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area featured on komoot. These routes range from easy to difficult, offering options for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
The best time for touring cycling in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area is generally from late spring through early autumn. During these months, snow has typically melted from lower elevations, and the weather is more stable. Autumn offers the spectacular golden foliage of alpine larch in areas like the Enchantment Lakes Basin, making it a particularly scenic time.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are several easier routes suitable for families. For instance, the area offers 3 easy routes, which are often flatter and shorter, providing a pleasant experience for all ages. These routes allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty without significant climbs or technical challenges.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no traffic touring cycling routes?
The terrain varies, but many routes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area can involve unpaved surfaces and challenging sections, even on designated 'no traffic' paths. While traditional road touring might be limited, gravel or mountain bikes are often ideal for these routes, allowing you to explore the stunning glacially-carved landscapes, U-shaped valleys, and forested areas.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, there are loop options available. For example, the Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak is a moderate 36.2 km ride that offers a circular experience. Another option is the South Cle Elum – Lake Easton State Park loop from Hyak, a more challenging 98.3 km loop.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I might see along these routes?
While cycling, you'll encounter the region's dramatic glacially-carved terrain, including sawtooth ridges and deep valleys. Many routes offer views of the extensive forests, ranging from Douglas-fir and western hemlock to subalpine firs. You might also catch glimpses of some of the area's numerous lakes and mountain ponds, which are a hallmark of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options in the area?
Yes, for those seeking longer adventures, the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail: Hyak to Easton offers a substantial 57.6 km ride. Another significant option is the Washington Timber Trail, which covers approximately 56 km and features considerable elevation gain, making it a challenging multi-day touring experience.
What is the difficulty level of the touring cycling routes in this region?
The routes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area cater to a range of abilities. There are 3 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 4 difficult routes. Difficult routes often involve significant elevation changes and can include unpaved sections, while easy routes are generally flatter and shorter.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area?
The touring cycling routes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars based on 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, the sense of solitude on no-traffic paths, and the rewarding challenge of the more difficult routes.
Are there any routes that pass through tunnels?
Yes, some routes incorporate unique features like tunnels. The Snoqualmie Tunnel – Snoqualmie Tunnel loop from Hyak is a moderate route that includes passage through the historic Snoqualmie Tunnel, offering a distinctive experience for touring cyclists.
Most popular routes in Alpine Lakes Wilderness Study Area
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