Biking in the Northwest is special. Maybe it’s the trails that take you from a small town café to a peaceful stretch of forest. Perhaps it’s the simple joy of pedaling under a canopy of evergreens, with rivers, mountains, and farmland rolling past.
Northwest bike trails aren’t a race, and you have nothing to prove here. It’s just you and the beauty of the Northwest unfolding around every bend.
We’ve found ten paved, off-road trails in Oregon and Washington that offer plenty of Northwest magic. These are sure to be favorites you ride over and over again.
The Best Bike Trails in the Northwest
Banks Vernonia State Trail
Banks-Vernonia StateTrail (Oregon)
This is the granddaddy of Oregon rail-trails, and it’s hard not to fall in love with it. Stretching 21 miles between the small towns of Banks and Vernonia along the route of a former logging railroad, it’s smooth, shady, and perfect for a leisurely ride. You’ll pedal through forests, across open farmland, and past small creeks that feel a world away from city life.
One of the highlights of this route is the Buxton Trestle, a restored wooden railroad bridge that soars 80 feet above the forest floor. Riding across it is exhilarating and the views from the top are breathtaking. The gentle grades make this a forgiving ride, whether you’re out with kids, friends, or just enjoying a solo day in nature.
Make it a day trip by starting in Banks, riding out to Vernonia for lunch, and then coasting back. The little downtown has a handful of cafes and shops that welcome trail riders.
Learn more about the Banks-Vernonia State Trail.
Fort Stevens State Park. Photo by Local on the Coast
Fort Stevens State Park Trails (Oregon Coast)
If you like the idea of riding to the beach, Fort Stevens is your spot. The paved paths wind through forest, wetlands, and dunes, and you can roll right up to the Pacific Ocean, where the rusted skeleton of the Peter Iredale shipwreck has stood since 1906. It’s a striking sight, especially at sunset when the tide is low.
The trails here connect the campground, historic military sites, and beaches, so you can spend the whole day exploring without ever getting back in your car. You’ll pass through wetlands where herons and egrets linger, then roll into thick coastal forest with towering Sitka spruce. The salty air and distant roar of the ocean are constant companions.
Fort Stevens is rich with variety—you can ride a few mellow miles with kids, or string together a longer loop that takes in the beach, the jetty, and the old fort. After your ride, Astoria is just a short drive away with delicious seafood spots and breweries.
Learn more about Fort Stevens State Park Trails.
Klickitat Canyon Trail, Photo by Dirty Freehub
Klickitat State Park Trail (Washington)
If you’re craving a ride that feels wild and remote, the Klickitat State Park Trail delivers. It starts in the town of Lyle on the Columbia River and follows the Klickitat River north through a canyon carved out of basalt cliffs. The scenery is dramatic: wide-open skies, rugged rock formations, and the river rushing beside you.
In spring, the canyon bursts with wildflowers, painting the hillsides in yellow and purple. In fall, golden leaves line the riverbanks. This trail has a raw, untamed beauty—you might spot eagles overhead or deer grazing near the edges. It feels far away from everything, even though you’re just a short drive from the Gorge towns.
The trail is long and partly unpaved in sections, so check conditions before you go and plan your ride accordingly. But even if you only do a stretch of it, you’ll get a sense of the canyon’s grandeur.
Learn more about the Klickitat State Park Trail.
Willapa Hills Trail, Photo by Washington State Parks Foundation
Willapa Hills State Park Trail (Washington)
If small-town charm is your thing, the Willapa Hills State Park Trail is perfect. Stretching 56 miles between Chehalis and South Bend, it meanders through farmland, forests, and across historic trestles, linking little communities along the way and giving you a glimpse into rural Northwest life.
While not every mile is paved yet, there are long, smooth sections that make for an easy, scenic ride. Stop in Pe Ell for a snack or just sit by the Chehalis River and listen to the water rushing past. You’ll encounter more birds than people on this trail, and that’s part of its beauty.
Bring a picnic, because you’ll find plenty of spots where you’ll want to stop and linger.
Learn more about the Willapa Hills State Park Trail.
Columbia River Trail, Photo by Bike Portland
Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail (Oregon Gorge)
Few rides are as jaw-dropping as the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. This route takes sections of the old scenic highway, now closed to cars, and transforms them into a paved bikeway through one of Oregon’s most iconic landscapes.
As you ride, you’ll pass waterfalls like Wahclella and Elowah, roll through moss-draped tunnels, and stop at viewpoints that make you gasp out loud. The trail sections are spread out along the Gorge, so you can pick shorter stretches for a casual ride or link them together for a full-day adventure.
The best part? It feels like your own private slice of the Gorge. With no traffic, you can slow down and really enjoy the sound of waterfalls and the views of the Columbia River. Bring a picnic and stop at a winery afterward. And don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to stop every five minutes just to snap another photo.
Learn more about the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.
Centennial Trail, Photo by Snohomish County Parks
Centennial Trail (Washington)
The Centennial Trail stretches for 30 paved miles through Snohomish County, north of Seattle. It’s built on a historic rail line and passes through forests, farmland, and charming small towns. The trail is wide and well-maintained, making it popular with both cyclists and families out for a walk.
One of the highlights is riding through the town of Snohomish, known for its antique shops and bakeries. It’s a great halfway stop to grab a treat before continuing north toward Arlington, where you’ll find more trail connections and rural scenery.
Along the way, you’ll cross rivers, ride through forested stretches, and catch glimpses of farmland with the Cascades in the distance. It’s an easygoing ride that captures the mix of nature and small-town life that makes the Northwest so special. If you’re looking for a mix of country charm and easy accessibility, this one is a winner.
Learn more about the Centennial Trail.
Chehalis Western Trail, Photo by Washington Trails Association
Chehalis Western Trail (Washington)
Just outside Olympia, the Chehalis Western Trail offers 22 miles of paved path through a mix of farmland, wetlands, and thick forests. It’s peaceful and uncrowded, with plenty of spots to stop and soak up the scenery.
The trail connects to the Yelm–Tenino Trail, which means you can extend your ride if you’re looking for a longer adventure. But even on its own, the Chehalis Western is a gem—it winds past ponds where you’ll see ducks and herons, through quiet woods, and along stretches of open fields.
One of the joys of this trail is how it feels like you’re far from town, even though you’re just minutes from Olympia. It’s a favorite for locals, and once you ride it, you’ll see why—it’s one of those “best kept secrets” that offers classic Northwest beauty without the crowds.
Learn more about the Chehalis Western Trail.
Apple Capital Loop Trail, Photo by Robert Annis
Apple Capital Loop Trail (Washington)
In Wenatchee, the Apple Capital Loop Trail gives you a riverfront ride with mountain views in every direction. This 22-mile paved loop follows both sides of the Columbia River, crossing bridges and winding through riverside parks and neighborhoods.
The east side of the trail feels a little quieter, with orchards and open stretches where you can take in the valley views. The west side brings you into Wenatchee proper, with lush parks, playgrounds, and plenty of picnic spots. It’s the kind of trail where you can combine your ride with a riverside picnic or a wander through town.
In spring, the valley bursts into blossom, and in fall, the hillsides glow with golden leaves. Whether you ride a section or the whole loop, you’ll be treated to big skies, mountain vistas, and a lively river that defines this part of Washington.
Learn more about the Apple Capital Loop Trail.
Bear Creek Greenway
Bear Creek Greenway (Oregon)
Down in southern Oregon, the Bear Creek Greenway links Ashland, Medford, and nearby towns with about 20 miles of smooth, easy riding. If you like the idea of riding from town to town (with plenty of coffee stops along the way), this is a great choice.
Along the way, ride alongside a rambling creek and take in vineyards, mountain vistas, and plenty of wildlife in the wetlands. In spring, wildflowers pop up along the trail; in fall, the colors along the creek are gorgeous. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all kinds of riders, whether families with kids or casual cyclists.
One of the best parts is being able to stop in any of the towns for coffee, ice cream, or a meal. You can enjoy the convenience of urban connections with the beauty of natural landscapes—a perfect ride if you want a little bit of everything.
Learn more about the Bear Creek Greenway.
Sammamish River Trail, Photo by Experience Redmond
Sammamish River Trail (Washington)
This is a Seattle-area classic: flat, paved, and running alongside the Sammamish River from Bothell to Redmond. It connects to the Burke-Gilman Trail, so you can make a longer adventure if you’re feeling ambitious. It’s completely flat and paved, making it easy and welcoming for all riders.
This trail is popular, but it never feels too busy, and the scenery makes it worth it.
Bonus: it passes right by Woodinville’s wineries and breweries, which makes for a pretty nice post-ride treat.
Learn more about the Sammamish River Trail.
What to Pack for a Day on the Trail
A great bike ride starts with a little preparation, and having the right gear makes all the difference between “that was fun” and “I wish I’d packed better.” First things first: always bring plenty of water. A hydration pack or water bottles that fit in your bike cage are lifesavers, especially on warm days. Toss in a few snacks—trail mix, granola bars, or fruit—for an energy boost when you need it.
Comfort is key, too. Layer your clothing so you’re ready for shifting Northwest weather, and don’t forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days. A lightweight rain jacket packs down small but comes in handy more often than you’d think. And of course, a good helmet is non-negotiable.
Finally, carry a small repair kit just in case. A spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, and a mini pump don’t take up much space but can save your ride if you get a flat. Add a basic first-aid kit and a charged phone for safety, and you’re ready to roll. With these essentials in your pack, you can focus less on “what ifs” and more on soaking up the scenery.
Plan Your Bike Adventure
Each of these trails tells a different Northwest story. Some take you through small towns and farmland, some hug rivers or lakes, and others sweep you into dramatic landscapes of cliffs, forests, and waterfalls. But they all share one thing: the chance to slow down, get outside, and experience the Pacific Northwest at its best.
So grab your bike, pack a snack, and pick a trail. Whether it’s a peaceful loop by the Columbia River or a rail-trail through farmland and forest, you’re sure to fall in love with the ride—and with the Northwest.
