State crews are ready to open North Cascades Hwy 20 next week. Weather is not ideal for care-free riding. If it is clear enough to enjoy the views and dry enough to be safe, we'll ride (probably with cars, but no many) on Friday, May 13.
Ride start: Meet at 10 a.m. at Colonial Creek Campground. Riders are encouraged to carpool to there from closer to home. Park in trail parking lot on the north side of Hwy. 20, as shown on this map.
Ride Leader: Kristin Kinnamon, 425-923-7868
Pace, Terrain, Length: This out and back ride will be at your own pace on C terrain, with occasional regroups. . Approx. 52 mile roundtrip (depending on road closure location - and of course you can turn around when you want). See description below.
Please Bring: Bring all your own snacks and water (or a water filter). No services on this route or nearby. Also bring extra layers - the downhill ride can be cold.
After the Ride: optional stop for early dinner at Annie's Pizza in Concrete or other place by rider agreement.
Route Description: The first climb is about 3 miles (5 km) at 6-7%. The next climb runs about 4.5 miles (7 km) at 4-5%. The third climb is 18.6 miles (30 km) at 3% up to Rainy Pass. It just seems to go on forever, even though it's not steep at all. The last uphill of the day is 2.5 miles (4 km) at 6% up to Washington Pass. It's not steep, but it finishes at 5,477 feet (1,670 m) of elevation.
