State Capitol Scenic Trails and Waterfront Ride

Start Point: "Winged Victory" Monument on State Capitol Grounds in Olympia. Ride check-in will be near the "Insurance Building", the closest building to the Winged Victory statue.

This ride is rich in waterfront views, fall scenery, and the history and architecture of the WA State Capitol grounds. 

We'll start out with a riding tour of the State Capitol grounds and some breathtaking views from there, segue into a scenic ride along the Chehalis Western and Woodland Trails (paved bike trails).  On the return leg, we will enjoy scenic views of the Olympia area waterfront near Priest Point Park as we cruise down East Bay Drive, and then wind through the Percival Landing area, to Capitol Lake.  But wait, there's more!  We will ride through the especially beautiful Tumwater Falls Park and Tumwater Historical Park, and return via Capitol Way and the bridge over the old Olympia Brewery grounds.  

After the ride, take a FREE guided tour of the State Capitol building; tours start at 2pm and 3pm. See links below for information on the tours.  While you're in Olympia, be sure to wander through the Olympia Farmers Market and check out the Percival Landing waterfront boardwalk.  We will pass through both on this ride.

Pace - This is a "Moderate" pace of 14-16 mph on the flats, with an emphasis on enjoying the scenery, so slower at times.  This ride is listed as Moderate pace due to the speeds we will hit on some long, flat stretches. Steady (12-14 MPH) pace riders are welcome. The overall pace will be closer to the "Steady" 12-14 pace much of the time, with frequent regroups,  This is a TANDEM-FRIENDLY ride.

Road Conditons - There are a few moderate hills, and we will regroup after hills.  The roads are about 20% city streets, 40% dedicated bike path, 20% smooth rural roads with dedicated bike lane, and 20% bike-friendly rural roads in good condition. There are a couple crossings on the route where we will walk our bikes for 50 yards or so each due to terrain and safety requirements.

Bring what you need to fix your own minor mechanicals, flats, etc.  Arrive 15 minutes prior to ride start time to to prepare your bike and be present for the safety briefing.

Safety/Courtesy: In the likely case of wet roads, fenders are required as a courtesy to other riders.  Also, a good part of the ride is on the Chehalis Western Trail, a multi-use path shared with other nonmotorized users, similar to the Burke-Gilman trail, so similar protocols for safely sharing the trail will apply.

Weather: Heavy, steady downpour or more severe weather will cancel the ride.  Ride cancellation will be announced in the comments section at least two hours before start time and the ride leader(s) will not be at the start.

Parking/Bathrooms: The state capitol normally has plenty of nearby available parking on weekends. Bathrooms are available near the start, and several along the route.

Register - Please sign an e-waiver by clicking on the “Register Now” button at the top of this page (right below the ride title) and enter your information. If you cannot make the ride, you do not need to unregister.