Bike Your Way Through Woodinville’s Wine Country

If you’ve only seen Woodinville through the windshield while driving, it may be time to see the city’s prospects through a new lens. By putting foot to pedal, visitors can immerse themselves in a unique combination of wine country and charming downtown scenery by bike.

“Many cycling destinations are simply places to ride through, but Woodinville is a place to stop and spend the day,” said Kimberly Ellertson, executive director at the Woodinville Chamber.

Among the most popular routes, and also ideal for a variety of skill levels, is the Sammamish River Trail. The paved and relatively flat path winds 9.5 miles, beginning at Marymoor Park in Redmond, passing through Woodinville, and ending at Blythe Park in Bothell.

In addition to calming river views and peaceful stretches of mature tree canopy, the Sammamish River corridor is home to a variety of wildlife such as blue herons, ducks, geese, and occasionally bald eagles and deer.

For those looking to fuel up before heading out, consider breakfast at Rusty Pelican Cafe, or perhaps a midday lunch break at The Hollywood Tavern or Heritage Restaurant | Bar. Or, as a treat for your long journey, a relaxing dinner and a glass of wine at Barking Frog or Bin 47 at The SOMM.

Bonus tip: For those looking to extend their trip, it also connects with the Burke-Gilman Trail for another 18.8 miles before concluding at Golden Gardens in Seattle.

Another popular route for cyclists is the well-traversed Eastrail, a 42-mile-long route that will eventually run between Snohomish, Woodinville, Redmond, Bellevue, and south to Renton.

While the Eastrail is still developing, cyclists can currently enjoy the gravel section near Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery while additional segments are still being added in downtown Woodinville.

For riders looking to put their skills to the test, the Paradise Valley Conservation Area located just outside Woodinville offers 9 miles of biking trails varying between beginner and intermediate difficulties.

Lastly, near Woodinville’s Warehouse District is Wood Trails, a small trail system that’s open to bikes and located within 53 acres of undeveloped land. The trails are accessible from 144th Ave NE, near 200th Street from the west, and multiple trailheads from the east side.

Bonus tip: Once finished, consider a stop at nearby Efestē for wine tasting and a flatbread pizza.

While biking through Woodinville, visitors are encouraged to slow down and maybe stay for a little while.

“Whether you’re visiting for an hour or making a day of it, plan time to enjoy our city,” Foakes said. “Woodinville serves as a gateway to some of the Eastside’s best cycling opportunities. … As these trail connections continue to grow, Woodinville is becoming an even stronger destination for cyclists of all experience levels.”

Biking Etiquette for First-Time Cyclists

Yield to pedestrians. Just like driving on the road, you should yield to people who are walking, hiking, or running.

Let folks know when you’re coming. It’s courteous to announce yourself when you’re close to passing (always allow at least 3 feet of passing distance) someone by ringing a bike bell or audibly saying “on your left” or “on your right.”

Avoid riding down the center, don’t speed, and be predictable. Keep right, pass on the left. It’s also wise to slow down near kids, dogs, horses, and busy trailheads.

If you packed it in, pack it out. Leave no trace.