Vancouver to Seattle via Port Townsend

[Canadiense]

My wife and I are planning a short trip on the Canada Day long weekend from Vancouver to Seattle via Port Townsend. We could use some suggestions regarding the most scenic route with the least traffic. Of course there are optional routes and the first choice begins once we arrive at the Sidney Ferry terminal. Do we pedal into Victoria for the Blackball Ferry to Port Angeles or do we catch the Washington State Ferry to Anacortes? As wonderful as the ride is from Sidney to Victoria, we have done that so our preference is to go to Anacortes.

So the route I have selected after looking at maps and google earth is the following:
Anacortes to Coupeville by Hwy 20
Coupeville to Port Townsend
Port Townsend to Irondale on Hwy 20 then turn to Hwy 19
Hwy 19 to Hwy 104
Hwy 104 to Hwy 3
South on Hwy 3 to Hwy 305
Hwy 305 to Bainbridge Island
Ferry to Seattle

When it is time to return to Vancouver we will catch the Amtrak train and for a fee of $5 more we can take your bicycles.

We would appreciate advice from anyone familiar with this trip. There will surely be short cuts, scenic side trips and wonderful restaurants to experience. Life can be so good if you let it.

 

[rm_blizzard]

I think you have made good choices. Although it's 10+ years since I did the trip, I rode from Port Angeles through Port Townsend to Anacortes as part of a Gulf Islands/San Juans tour. The road from Port Angeles was very heavily travelled including lots of truck traffic. The trip down Whidbey Island was excellent, with Deception Pass a highlight.

I don't know much about route 19, but hwy 20 south of Port Townsend completely lacked shoulders. Don't know if improvements have been made.

There are route maps and other info for Bainbridge Island at this site: http://www.squeakywheels.org/rides.htm.
In my opinion, the highlight of your trip would be Port Townsend with its heritage buildings and good restos. Reminds me of Nelson, BC (by the sea). Don't miss Fort Warden State park.