Photo caption: The Tenino Quarry Pool was originally a working Sandstone Quarry in the late 1800s.
The self-guided bike tour, Biking Beyond, takes visitors along the Yelm-Tenino Trail near Olympia, WA.
Available in both digital and print format, the guide was created to assist guests in wayfinding. Points of interests range from recreation and family fun to top spots for sipping, exploring and dining.
The scenic Yelm-Tenino trail stretches 14 miles through the rural communities of Yelm, Rainier and Tenino along the former Burlington Northern railroad line. An elevation gain of just 320 feet makes for an easy and accessible ride for beginners, while the views of farmland, wetlands, wildlife and Mount Rainier make the ride enjoyable for all abilities.
Cyclists can bring a bike or borrow one for free courtesy of the Tenino Yellow Bicycle Project, then choose an adventure or select from predetermined routes. Biking Beyond can be accessed at BikingBeyond.com.
The Yelm-Tenino trail corridor was acquired by Thurston County 1993. Historically it operated as a railroad from about 1869 through the late 1980’s. This 14.5 mile line runs east-west through the southern portion of Thurston County and connects the communities of Yelm, Rainier, and Tenino.
The trail traverses forest and agricultural lands, wetlands, creeks, and other habitat and runs parallel to State Route 507. The trail begins near Yelm City Hall, passes near Wilkowski Park in Rainier and ends at Tenino City Park featuring views of the Deschutes River west of Rainier and of McIntosh Lake near Tenino.
The Yelm-Tenino Trail intersects with the 22-mile Chehalis Western Trail, linking the cities of Yelm, Rainier, Tenino, Tumwater, Lacey, Olympia, and Woodard Bay on the Puget Sound. Permitted uses of the trail are pedestrians, bicycles, and other forms of non-motorized use.
The Yelm trailhead is located behind the City Hall and features parking, picnic tables, restrooms and an information kiosk.
The Rainier trailhead is located between Centre and Minnesota Streets behind Rainier Market with restrooms available.
The Tenino trailhead is at the Tenino City Park on Washington Avenue with access to restrooms.
