1.
Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School
48.4km
03:06
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 29, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Maple Valley, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails, it's tough to figure out which ones are truly worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – sifting through countless routes to find those perfect, car-free stretches can be a real headache. That's why we've tapped into komoot's community, who have ridden and reviewed these routes, to bring you a curated shortlist that saves you the guesswork.
Touring cycling in Maple Valley is all about lush forests, serene lakes, and the winding Cedar River. The terrain offers a great mix, from flat, easy-going sections along river trails to some enjoyable rolling hills, making it accessible for various fitness levels. You'll find distinct zones, from the tranquil Lake Wilderness area to the scenic Cedar River corridor. While many routes are open year-round, the fall offers a unique spectacle with thousands of sockeye salmon visible along the Cedar River Trail.
If you only do one route, we'd point you straight to the Lake Wilderness – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley. At 64.3 miles (103.4 km) with 2,517 feet (767 m) of climbing, it's a challenging, long-distance ride that truly showcases the region's diverse beauty. For something a bit more moderate but still incredibly rewarding, the Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School is a fantastic choice at 30.0 miles (48.3 km), offering a great mix of paved and unpaved sections. Dive in and discover why over 200 touring cyclists have already explored Maple Valley with komoot.
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School | 48.4 km | 400 m | Moderate |
| Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley | 14.8 km | 80 m | Easy |
| Cedar River Trail – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley | 23.2 km | 200 m | Moderate |
| Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Tahoma High School | 8.69 km | 30 m | Easy |
| Lake Wilderness – Cedar River Trail Entrance loop from Maple Valley | 9.23 km | 50 m | Easy |
48.4km
03:06
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
14.8km
01:09
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
23.2km
02:02
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route

Sign up for free
8.69km
00:44
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
9.23km
00:40
50m
50m
This easy touring cycling route offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and accessible paths, perfect for a quick escape. You'll pedal along the Cedar River Trail and the Green-to-Cedar Rivers Trail, enjoying a mix of paved and hard-packed gravel surfaces that wind through lush forests. The highlight is undoubtedly the tranquil Lake Wilderness, offering beautiful views, and if you visit in the fall, you might even spot sockeye salmon spawning in the Cedar River.
Planning your ride is straightforward; this 5.7-mile (9.2 km) loop with only 177 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 40 minutes. It's an easy route suitable for most riders. As the Cedar River Trail is quite popular, arriving earlier in the day is a good idea to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience, especially around Lake Wilderness Park.
This trail system is notable for its use of a former railroad corridor, making for a generally flat and accessible path. It connects Maple Valley to significant natural spaces like Lake Wilderness Park, often called the “Crown Jewel” of the area. The route offers a unique opportunity for wildlife spotting, particularly the salmon in autumn, and provides a peaceful transition between urban and rural settings.
View route
Lake Wilderness is the largest lake in Maple Valley and has a namesake lodge that is designated a King County landmark.
0
0
Originating in the Cascade Range, the Cedar River flows for 45 miles before emptying into Lake Washington. The Cedar River hosts populations of sockeye, coho, and Chinook salmon, steelhead, and trout, making it a prime spot for fishing.
0
0
This area features well-maintained trails with the Cedar River meandering through. The lush greenery and moss-covered branches contribute to the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding area.
0
0
Landsburg Reach Natural Area comprises nine parcels totaling 24 acres, creating a serene sanctuary. While predominantly offering minimal public use, one parcel provides essential trail connections between Danville/Georgetown trails and the Cedar River Pipeline Road. The area holds potential for future acquisitions, promising expanded land support and opportunities for exploration.
0
0
The trail follows the river for 17.4 miles, from Landsburg, downstream to the mouth of the Cedar River, where it empties into Lake Washington.
0
1
The trail follows the former rail bed. Its suitable for cycling and hiking with beautiful and scenic parts.
0
0
Great spot to stop for coffee / pastry break, or full lunch if you need a bit more!
0
0
Komoot offers 13 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Maple Valley. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 6 easy, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult option to explore the region's beautiful landscapes.
Maple Valley's no-traffic routes offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find extensive paved sections, particularly along the Cedar River Trail, which is ideal for smooth touring. Some routes also incorporate soft-surface paths and gravel sections, providing a varied experience through lush forests and open lands. The region features a blend of flat river trails and gentle rolling hills.
Yes, Maple Valley has several easy, no-traffic routes perfect for families. The Lake Wilderness loop from Dorre Don Reach Natural Area (9.8 km) and the Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School (8.5 km) are both easy options that offer pleasant rides around the lake with minimal elevation gain, suitable for all ages.
For a longer and more challenging no-traffic touring experience, consider the Lake Wilderness – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley. This difficult 103 km route features significant elevation changes and allows you to immerse yourself in the region's diverse scenery, including both Lake Wilderness and the Cedar River.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Maple Valley are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Cedar River Pipeline Road – Lake Wilderness loop from Tahoma High School and the Cedar River Trail – Cedar River loop from Maple Valley, allowing you to explore without needing to retrace your steps.
Maple Valley's no-traffic routes offer access to several beautiful natural features. You can cycle along the scenic Cedar River Trail, which follows the Cedar River, or enjoy the tranquility of Lake Wilderness. The Soos Creek Trail and Soos Creek Duck Pond are also accessible, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and serene landscapes.
The no-traffic touring routes in Maple Valley are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from 36 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the beautiful natural scenery along the Cedar River and Lake Wilderness, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.
While many trails in Maple Valley are dog-friendly, specific regulations can vary by trail section or park. Generally, dogs are required to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the official King County Parks website for the most current rules regarding pets on trails like the Cedar River Trail or in areas around Lake Wilderness. For more information on the Cedar River Trail, you can visit King County's official page.
Parking is generally available at various access points for the major trail networks. For routes utilizing the Cedar River Trail, you can often find parking near trailheads in Maple Valley or Renton. For routes around Lake Wilderness, parking is typically available at public parks or access points around the lake. Specific parking details are often provided within individual komoot tour descriptions.
Maple Valley offers enjoyable cycling conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved sections might be muddy or have seasonal closures due to weather. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Yes, Maple Valley has various cafes and restaurants, particularly in the town center, which are accessible from many of the local cycling routes. Along the Cedar River Trail, you might find options in nearby towns like Renton. For routes around Lake Wilderness, there are establishments within a short distance. Planning your route with komoot allows you to discover points of interest, including eateries, along your chosen path.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.