Pedestrian and Bicycle Routes

The Sharpes Corner roundabout is now open for traffic. Cyclists prefer to avoid roundabouts or to use methods when navigating a roundabout that suit their abilities and comfort. Suggested routes emphasizing the separated grade path at the roundabout are available by link below, including maps with turn-by-turn directions.

In some situations a cyclist may find himself or herself needing to pass through Sharpes Corner roundabout. The routes through the roundabout are designated by the direction of travel as one approaches, followed by the word “to” and a second direction of travel after completing the roundabout. For example, travel from Burlington (or Mount Vernon or Whitney) to Oak Harbor is designated "Westbound to Southbound." Travel from Oak Harbor to Anacortes is designated "Northbound to Westbound."

Keep in mind that whenever possible the USBR 10 route over the Tommy Thompson Parkway trestle is a much quieter, less challenging traffic experience and would be recommended for east to east, west to west, and north to west travel plans (See [weblinks]). The reduction in traffic and the long shared use pathway of the Tommy Thompson Parkway is one of this region’s gems.

Internet links on Ride With GPS for the routes are as follows:

Westbound to Westbound: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28302319 (via Tommy Thompson Trail & Trestle)
​
​Westbound to Southbound:  https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28301910

Eastbound to Eastbound (Preferred Route via Tommy Thompson Trail & Trestle): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28380915

Eastbound to Eastbound (Via WA20 and Fidalgo Bay Road S.): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28301352  (Note Preferred Route via Tommy Thompson Trail & Trestle, above)

Eastbound to Southbound (Preferred Route via Tommy Thompson Trail & Trestle): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28422229

Eastbound to Southbound (via WA 20 and Fidalgo Bay Rd. S): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28301581   (Note Preferred Route is via Tommy Thompson Trail & Trestle, above)

Northbound to Westbound : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28386693

Northbound to Eastbound: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/28313219

These instructions are intended to help cyclists to choose which route is suitable for their skill level. Consult the Skagit County Bike Map for general details about roadway characteristics such as shoulders and customary motor vehicle use.

Cyclists must consider their own skill level in choosing to travel any route. Also, temporary conditions such as weather, construction and congestion cannot be factored into these route recommendations. Ultimately the rider must use his or her best judgment in the choice of route, or whether to use another mode of transportation instead of riding.

It is the responsibility of the cyclist to remain alert not only for his or her safety, but for the safety of all other road users, motorists, pedestrians and persons with disabilities.