Double Bluff Beach – Flowerhouse Cafe loop from Deer Lagoon Preserve

If you're seeking a road cycling route that perfectly blends scenic coastal vistas with charming island life, the Double Bluff Beach – Flowerhouse Cafe loop from Deer Lagoon Preserve is an excellent choice. This moderate 32.7-mile (52.6 km) ride features 1574 feet (480 metres) of climbing and typically takes around 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete. It's ideal for cyclists who appreciate diverse landscapes, wildlife spotting, and a rewarding cafe stop.

What to expect on Double Bluff Beach – Flowerhouse Cafe loop from Deer Lagoon Preserve

This route guides you through the varied beauty of Whidbey Island. You'll begin near Deer Lagoon Preserve, an Important Bird Area where you can observe abundant waterfowl and eagles amidst shady alders and cattail marshes. While the preserve's internal paths are unpaved, the connecting roads offer excellent road cycling through lush farmlands and forests. A highlight is Double Bluff Beach, known for its dramatic bluffs and expansive views of Puget Sound, with Mount Rainier visible on clear days. Be prepared for some significant elevation gains on Whidbey Island's backroads, as some routes can push 10% grades, making this a good challenge for moderately fit cyclists.

Planning your visit

To plan your Double Bluff Beach – Flowerhouse Cafe loop road cycling adventure, consider using resources like the Whidbey and Camano Islands Bike Map to identify suitable roads and understand their conditions. The Deer Lagoon Preserve is accessible by bike, with a road shoulder leading to the trailhead from Highway 525. Whidbey Island has an active biking community, and its scenic, low-traffic backroads are generally excellent for cycling. The Flowerhouse Cafe, situated within Bayview Garden, makes for a perfect mid-ride break.

Trail details

• Distance: 32.7 miles (52.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 1574 feet (480 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 18 minutes