Want More Trip Inspiration?
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the freshest stories, videos, and travel ideas from our corner of the PNW.
Sign Me UpA Guide to Social Distancing Bike Rides
The world sure looks different these days.
People need recreation more than ever – to cope with stress and maintain mental health (not to mention staving off the infamous “quarantine fifteen”).
The social distancing bike ride has emerged in the bicycle community as a way for people to get out and still maintain a safe distance at all times.
When combined with curbside pickup from local restaurants, bars, and cafes, this idea can help empower small business owners while allowing for responsible recreation. It’s a win-win.
Before you lube up your chain, we should review this big disclaimer.
Please be sure at all times to protect local populations. Wear a mask and practice social distancing at all times.
Remember that you are a guest in local communities.
Follow all state and federal guidelines for proper social distancing and COVID-19 precautions.
Stillaguamish River Valley
38.5 miles out and back
The Stillaguamish River Valley runs west-east and takes bicyclists from farmland, past foothills, the very doorstep of the Cascade Mountains.
Start in the farm town of Silvana and bike east on the Pioneer Highway. the Highway turns into Scenic Route Highway 530 and takes you to the riverside town of Arlington. Order to go/curbside pickup food in Arlington through the Virtual Arlington portal, here.
Continue on Highway 530 to the Whitehorse Trail -- a route designed for bicylists and pedestrians. The trail follows the Stillaguamish River to the small lumber town of Darrington. Take in views of Whitehorse Mountain or spend the day hiking on the Sauk River.
Make sure you budget time to get back to Silvana before nightfall -- it can be a long haul back to the lower valley for some bicyclists.
Skykomish River Valley
26 miles out and back
Fill your lungs with clean air from the Skykomish River Valley. You'll want to pull off to the shoulder regularly for photo ops of rolling farmland as it blends into the foothills of the Cascades.
Start your journey in Downtown Snohomish. Fuel up with curbside food pickup or a to-go order. Hungry? Check out the Virtual Snohomish portal, here.
Head east out of town and turn right onto the Snohomish-Monroe Highway. This farm road takes you past Lord Hill and down winding roads to Downtown Monroe. Stop for lunch in this charming historic community. Check out Monroe restaurants here, via the Choose Monroe portal.
Head south on Highway 203 to explore the Tualco Valley.