Washington State is a haven for the outdoorsy type, and Port Angeles is home to many nature-focused adventures. Serving as the gateway to the Olympic National Park, visitors and locals can enjoy picturesque hiking trials, bird watching, biking and much more.
For those wanting to explore the area on two wheels, Visit Port Angeles has unveiled a pocket-sized bike map in collaboration with local artist, Gianna Andrews.
Highlighting the best places to go bike riding in the Olympic Peninsula, the map brings the region’s extensive trails to live through a bright and bold painting that showcases the natural beauty of the area. From the renowned Olympic Discovery Trail—a 135+ mile paved path winding through the City of Port Angeles—to scenic road cycling routes and mountain biking journeys for every type of thrill seeker, the map offers plenty of options for a variety of different biking styles.
Andrews’ art was used as a vibrant base layer to the map before bike trails and MTB trailheads were then graphically overlayed on top of a digitized-version of the original painting.
“In recent years, Port Angeles has made significant investments to enhance the cycling experience, focusing on alternative transportation routes, major investments in trail maintenance, and a proactive approach to securing grants that support cycling-friendly capital projects.” Nathan West, City Manager for the City of Port Angeles, said. “These efforts not only benefit cyclists, but also emphasize the environmental, social and economic benefits that biking brings to our community. This commitment is further celebrated through the work of talented local artist Gianna Andrews, whose artwork beautifully captures the many amazing opportunities we offer to cyclists in our city.”
In addition to the best trails to pedal on, the map details Port Angeles’ art, culture and history offerings, including the Uptown Arts District, which offers the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center, Field Arts and Events Hall, Juan De Fuca Foundation and more.
Cycling played a part in Andrews’ discovery of her artist talents. After mountain biking accident left her with a broken back and she was confined to a clamshell brace for months, she spent her recovery at the easel, painting her favorite Pacific Northwest outdoor scenes. Now, art has not only transformed Andrews’ life, but has also evolved into her biggest passion and a thriving art career.