Explore the Chehalis Western Trail
Explore the Chehalis-Western Trail. Bike past farmland, tranquil creeks, prairies and picturesque lakes—great for a weekend bikeventure.
The historic Chehalis-Western railroad now lends itself to a dynamic 22-mile trail offering a variety of experiences from sculpture parks to a coffee roaster. The trail even connects into the Yelm-Tenino Trail for more miles of memories.
The north trailhead is located at Woodard Bay with parking and restrooms. There are also three additional trailheads with parking, restrooms and picnic facilities. Look for the trailhead icon on the map. For more information, including maps visit BikingBeyond.com.
Stops Along The Trail
Woodard Bay serves as the north trailhead for the Chehalis-Western Trail. Find ample parking and explore the wildlife sanctuary with three trails.To reach the walking trail, it’s best to drive from the trailhead parking lot to the right and across the bridge to the lower parking, as the bridge and hill can be difficult for some riders. Follow the trail for views of shoreline, birds, harbor seals and a bat colony living under an old train trestle. Please note that some trails may be closed seasonally for heron and eagle nesting.
Enjoy Stops Along The Junction With The Karen Fraser Woodland Trail
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Woodard Bay Conservation Area
Get DirectionsWoodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area was designated by the legislature in 1987, one of the first in…
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Lacey Museum
Get Directions (360) 438-0209The Lacey Museum tells vibrant stories of Lacey and the South Sound’s past through exhibits, guided tours and…
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Chambers Lake Trailhead Park
Get DirectionsChamber Lake Nature park contains forested wetlands, upland forest, and a large open field. It is adjacent to…
(Along the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail)
At the junction with the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail, swing left for a quick cup of freshly roasted coffee at Olympic Crest Coffee Roasters. The Woodland Trail runs behind the shop and is not far off the beaten path of the Chehalis-Western Trail (just past the cross street of Sleater-Kinney). Check out their daily specials board for creative chalk art and punny (and delicious) drinks.
(Along the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail)
If you venture a little further down the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail, explore Depot Park in Lacey, Washington - a charming community space featuring a restored historic train depot, picnic areas, and a scenic walking path. This small yet inviting park offers a glimpse into the city's railroad history while providing a peaceful spot for relaxation and gatherings. Local Tip: While there, don’t miss the spectacular view of Mount Rainier from the roundabout on a clear day.
(Off the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail)
Through exhibits, educational programs and research archives, the Lacey Museum tells the story of the community's past, and how its rich history has affected the present and will shape the future. The Lacey Museum is located in a historic structure that was originally built in the late 1920s by Fred Russell as a private residence and has served as a fire station and Lacey's first city hall. The museum is right off the bike trail in the Lacey historic neighborhood on Lacey street.
Find world-class birdwatching between the two Chambers Lakes. The shallow lakes are home to largemouth bass, yellow perch and catfish. For those packing a picnic, the trailhead also has bathrooms and a picnic area for a picturesque lunch.
Enjoy Stops Along The Junction With Waldrick Road
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Offut Lake Resort
Get Directions (360) 264-2438Offut Lake is a small family-owned campground and restaurant near Tenino, WA, about 15 minutes south of Olympia…
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Wolf Haven International
Get Directions (360) 264-4695The mission of Wolf Haven International is to "Conserve and protect wolves and their habitat." Wolf Haven accomplishes…
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Monarch Sculpture Park
Get Directions (360) 264-2408Monarch Sculpture Park provides a quiet natural setting for visitors to interact with sculpture created by artists from…
(Along Waldrick Road)
Take in the views on the wrap-around patio at Lady of the Lake Public House, offering dinner Tuesday through Friday and lunch and dinner on Saturdays. Try the lady’s lemon twist prawns or indulge in a fried pickle burger made with beef from a local farm. If you’re up for an adventure rent a boat for a few hours and explore Offut Lake. To get to Lady of the Lake, take a right at the junction with Waldrick Road and then turn left on Offut Lake Road SE, follow that road for a sharp right and then turn right onto Bryant Street SE. Lady of the Lake Public House is at the end of the road.
(Along Waldrick Road)
If you venture a little further down Offut Lake Road SE, don’t miss Wolf Haven International, a sanctuary for rescued wolves. The sanctuary cares for about 50 animals and visitors can take a guided 50-minute tour. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (360) 264-4695 x220. Tours are generally on the weekends and some tours may be offered during the week, call ahead for more information and to reserve a tour.
A visit to this outdoor sculpture park will be met with whimsy and thought-provoking installations throughout a tranquil setting. Meander through the gardens and across the bubbling brook to view more than 110 contemporary sculptures.
Enjoy Stops Along The Junction With The Yelm-Tenino Trail
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Yelm Rainier Tenino Trail
Get DirectionsThe Yelm-Tenino trail corridor was acquired by Thurston County 1993. Historically it operated as a railroad from about…
Visit the charming towns of Rainier, Tenino and Yelm along the Yelm-Tenino trail. Feed your sweet tooth at Mainstreet Cookie Co. in Rainier, take in the history of sandstone in Tenino with a dip in the Quarry Pool and a stop at Scatter Creek Winery & Brewery or sip craft cocktails and take in a movie in Yelm at the Uptown Lounge and Cinemas.
EXPLORE THE ENTIRE REGION. THERE'S LOTS TO SEE AND DO IN THE AREA. FOR MORE INSPIRATION, CHECK OUT THE THURSTON BOUNTIFUL BYWAY.