The trail runs north-south through the heart of Thurston County and links up with the County-owned 14.5-mile Yelm to Tenino Trail. It passes through a variety of ecosystems and environments in both the urban and rural areas of the County. It provides access to over 170-acres of park land including nearly two (2) miles of frontage along the Deschutes River, and features access to the Puget Sound, Chambers Lake, wetlands, forests, farmland, creeks, prairies, and other habitats.
There are mileage markers every 1/2 mile along the Chehalis Western Trail, beginning at the northern portion of the Trail, Woodard Bay, which is owned and operated by the Department of Natural Resources. Thurston County's portion starts at mile marker 6.5 at the Chambers Lake Trailhead on 14th Avenue.
Thurston County-owns approximately 15.5 miles of the 22 miles of Chehalis Western Trail in public ownership. The trail is an integral and significant linkage in the planned 42.5-mile county-managed trail system. It features a trailhead facility with parking, restrooms, and picnic facilities at the Chambers Lake Boat Launch, Scenic Overlook at Chambers Lake, the Yelm Highway Pedestrian Overpass, a trailhead at 67th Avenue with parking and trail information, and a parking area at Fir Tree Road. With its spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, the Bald Hills, and Indian Summer Golf and Country Club, the trail provides excellent opportunities for users to enjoy a tranquil and refreshing outdoor recreation experience. Equestrian use is permitted south of Fir Tree Road and all developed sections of the Yelm-Tenino Trail.
easy paved two lane path meandering through suburbs and swamps, small lakes and countryside. Pretty and relaxing, though pretty busy and in town. very easy.
| ThankThis is Not a Mountain Bike Trail by any measure. It is a paved bicycle path on a former railroad grade. That said, I do enjoy riding on it. It is an easy and very well maintained path, suitable for any skill level, to include ‘training wheels’ or ‘baby trailers’ for the whole family. You can go as fast or slow as you want, but it can be busy with other Riders, Joggers, Walkers, an occasional Horse Rider, and even Skateboarders in places closer to town. You know the deal – Share the Trail.
| ThankIt does go through an interesting mix of scenery and micro-climes, so taking time to just look up from the path and enjoy the view is worthwhile.
It also connects with other similar paved trails in Yelm, Rainier, and Tenino to make a high mileage ‘training ride’ or ‘day-tour’ possible.
In terms of Mountain Biking, there are the occasion little off-shoots of single-track loops and spurs that are fun to explore if you are so inclined. No individual one that I’ve ridden are worthy of a detailed comment here, but they are around and can be entertaining.