Things To Do on an eBike in Jefferson County, WA
Jefferson County's best eBike ride is the Larry Scott Memorial Trail, the first segment of the Olympic Discovery Trail, which leaves the Port Townsend Boat Haven and runs 7.3 miles to Discovery Bay. Fort Worden State Park adds bike trails on the edge of town, and you can rent an eBike downtown.
This guide covers only routes in Jefferson County. The Willapa Hills and Chehalis Western trails listed on older versions of this page are in Lewis and Thurston counties, so they are not included here.
Where to ride in Jefferson County
Most riding starts in Port Townsend. The Larry Scott Trail is a packed gravel path that suits any comfortable Class 1 or Class 2 eBike. Fort Worden's trails are better for pedal-assist mountain eBikes.
Named eBike routes and access checks
1. Larry Scott Memorial Trail (Olympic Discovery Trail)
Route: Jefferson County manages the 7.3-mile non-motorized, multi-use trail from the Port Townsend Boat Haven to Milo Curry Road near Discovery Bay. The Broken Spoke describes it as packed gravel.
Access: To start at the north end, turn on Haines Place into the Boat Haven, about 1 mile south of downtown, where there is parking, toilets and water. The Olympic Discovery Trail also lists trailheads on Cape George Road and at S. Discovery Road and Milo Curry Road.
eBike access: The county's trail etiquette sheet bans motorized vehicles except electric assist bicycles and wheelchairs. State law keeps Class 3 eBikes off shared-use paths unless the local jurisdiction allows them, so Class 1 or Class 2 is the safe choice. Bicyclists yield to all other users, including horses.
Going farther: Past Milo Curry Road the eastern ODT continues about 20 miles on paved roads toward Blyn at Sequim Bay, which suits experienced road riders only.
2. Fort Worden Historical State Park, Port Townsend
Route: The park has 8.3 miles of biking trails, according to The Broken Spoke, plus park roads.
Access: A Discover Pass is required. Day passes are $10. The park opens at 6:30 a.m. in summer and 8 a.m. in winter, and closes at dusk.
eBike access: Washington State Parks allows Class 1 and Class 3 pedal-assist eBikes on in-park trails that allow bikes, and all classes on park roads. Class 2 is not on the trail list. Hiking-only trails are off limits.
Washington eBike rules
- Under RCW 46.61.710, Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes may use shared-use paths, but local jurisdictions and state agencies may restrict them.
- Class 3 eBikes may not use a shared-use path unless the local jurisdiction allows them, and may not use a sidewalk unless there is no alternative.
- No eBike may use a nonmotorized natural-surface trail unless the managing agency allows it.
Half-day and full-day eBike plans
Half day: Rent an eBike downtown, ride to the Boat Haven and take the Larry Scott Trail out to Milo Curry Road and back, about 15 miles.
Full day: Ride the Larry Scott Trail in the morning, then explore the Fort Worden park roads and bike trails on a pedal-assist eBike in the afternoon.
What not to ride
A Class 2 throttle eBike on Fort Worden's trails. State Parks only lists Class 1 and Class 3 for in-park trails.
Hiking-only trails anywhere in the county. eBikes are not allowed on trails that do not permit bikes.
When to ride Jefferson County
The Broken Spoke is closed Sundays, so book a rental for another day or pick up on Saturday. Fort Worden closes at dusk year-round.
eBike shops and service
The Broken Spoke, 630 Water Street, rents electric bikes from $30 for two hours to $90 for 24 hours. Reservations are recommended at 360-379-1295. Velo Cats Collective on W. Sims Way sells, services and assembles many eBikes but does not work on front-hub motor eBikes.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Larry Scott Trail?
7.3 miles, from the Port Townsend Boat Haven to Milo Curry Road near Discovery Bay.
Are eBikes allowed on the Larry Scott Trail?
Yes. The county's etiquette sheet exempts electric assist bicycles from its motor-vehicle ban. Class 3 needs local permission on shared-use paths.
Where do I park for the Larry Scott Trail?
At the Port Townsend Boat Haven off Haines Place, with parking, toilets and water.
Can I ride an eBike at Fort Worden State Park?
Class 1 and Class 3 pedal-assist eBikes may use trails that allow bikes. All classes may use park roads.
Where can I rent an eBike in Port Townsend?
The Broken Spoke on Water Street rents electric bikes. Reservations are recommended.
Who services eBikes in Jefferson County?
Velo Cats Collective services many eBikes, though not front-hub motor models. Call 360-344-2448.
All eBike shops in Jefferson County
See the Jefferson County eBike shops page for the full directory, and our Washington eBike laws guide for state rules.