Japanese Garden at Carrie Blake Park

This challenging road cycling loop from Jamestown takes you on a diverse journey through the Olympic Peninsula's unique landscapes. You'll pedal along paved sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail, soaking in views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains, before transitioning to rural roads that weave past picturesque lavender farms. The route culminates with a crossing of the historic Dungeness River Bridge, offering a unique perspective on the river's dynamics, and skirts the scenic saltwater coastline of Sequim Bay State Park.

To tackle this difficult 78.2-mile (125.9 km) ride with its 3550 feet (1082 metres) of elevation gain, plan for approximately 6 hours and 53 minutes in the saddle and ensure you have very good fitness. The region's 'Olympic rain shadow' microclimate means significantly less rainfall and more sunny days, making it an ideal destination for cycling year-round. While much of the route is paved, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and require extra effort.

This route integrates a significant portion of the Olympic Discovery Trail, a celebrated 130-mile non-motorized path spanning the northern Olympic Peninsula. The Dungeness River Bridge itself is a notable landmark, providing a vantage point for observing the river and its surroundings, including seasonal salmon spawning. The trail also passes through areas of cultural significance, highlighting the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe's contributions to preserving public access.

This road cycling loop from Paradise Cove takes you on a scenic journey through varied landscapes, offering glimpses of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. You'll pedal past rural agricultural lands, potentially catching the scent of lavender in summer, and wind through the natural forest and saltwater shoreline of Sequim Bay State Park. The route also skirts the wetlands of the South Sequim Bay Wildlife Area, providing a diverse and engaging ride.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Sequim area benefits from the Olympic rain shadow, ensuring more sunny days for cycling year-round. Parking is available at Sequim Bay State Park, a popular access point, but remember you'll likely need a Discover Pass. While primarily a road ride, be ready for some unpaved sections that can be challenging, so good fitness and a bike capable of mixed surfaces are recommended.

This moderate 28.1-mile (45.2 km) loop, with 1231 feet (375 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 36 minutes, connects to the broader Olympic Discovery Trail. It's a great option for cyclists looking for a route that combines natural beauty with a bit of adventure on mixed terrain, offering a different experience than purely paved trails.