Here are a few of my favorite cycling routes in and around Lewis County. Many of these routes utilize a combination of both city streets and rural roads; as such, please know that you are responsible for your own safety and for following all applicable laws.
Remember, bicycles are legally operating vehicles in Washington state, and cyclists have the same rights and same responsibilities as drivers of vehicles. Ride safe, ride smart, and ride to ride another day!
Click or tap the title of any route to be taken to a page that describes it in greater detail.
Leisurely Routes
These routes are good for cyclists looking for a gentle ride or something a little calmer in nature. These will generally stick pretty close to the cities of Chehalis and Centralia.
Rural Chehalis Loop / 18.1 miles, 245 feet of gain
This route starts at Chehalis Thorbeckes and heads on out through town onto some country roads, but not too far from Chehalis. It loops back to the fitness center on the east side of I-5. This is a very good route if you just want a more relaxing ride.
Centralia & the Willapa Pavement / 23.6 miles, 287 feet of gain
This is a simple out-and-back ride that takes you from downtown Centralia to Adna using the Willapa Hills Trail. Elevation gain is minimal, and while this route does carry some traffic on city streets, most drivers along these roads tend to be respectful and courteous.
Hanaford & Salzer Time Trial / 17.9 miles, 516 feet of gain
This is a good route on which to test your ability on small rolling hills. See if you can gain momentum on the descents to aid in your next climb. This is good practice for knowing your gearing and your capabilities. Very low traffic on Teitzel and Salzer Valley roads!
Moderate Routes
Looking for something to get your fitness level up, get some good saddle time or just do something that feels like you got out of town for a bit? Check these routes out.
Chehalis-Winlock Loop / 38.2 miles, 1251 feet of gain
This one is a personal favorite, using scenic side roads to reach Winlock and then popping back on the historic Jackson Highway, which once carried the Pacific Highway through Lewis County. Winlock is a good spot for a water reload or food stop.
Lincoln Creek & Bunker Creek Loop / 40.4 miles, 1176 feet of gain
This is a well-known route for cyclists in and around Lewis County: the Lincoln Creek and Bunker Creek loop. Rollers galore and some fun climbs and descents too. This one is super scenic and enjoyable especially in a paceline, and can be used as a connector to several other good cycling roads.
Centralia-Alpha & South County / 17.9 miles, 516 feet of gain
This one’s a really good one for practicing a few sustained climbs. Get your climbing skills ready for Coal Creek, two good hills on Centralia Alpha, and Larmon! Please be careful on Centralia-Alpha; traffic is relatively light but the speed limit is 50. It is best to do this ride with a group.
Advanced Routes
Get ready for a good day on the bike. These routes bring about a pretty good challenge for any cyclist regardless of fitness or ability. These routes have some good mileage and wander around Lewis County!
Boistfort Valley Loop / 62.3 miles, 2400 feet of gain
This one has it all: a bunch of paceline opportunities, some good climbs, fast descents, and wonderful scenery. Depending on the wind direction, the Boistfort Valley could provide a fantastic sprinting opportunity too. This includes a little loop at the end to ensure you get a metric century out of the deal.
Rather Hilly Metric Century / 63.1 miles, 2567 feet of gain
Some sustained climbs and good sprint opportunities on this one. There’s something for everyone here! If you don’t feel like continuing south, you can always head back north onto Jackson from North Fork and enjoy the ride back into Centralia.