Sunrise on Mt Rainier and perhaps Chinook Pass and/or Crystal MT
Highlights: On August 13th, Monday ride up Sunrise on Mt Rainier and return and consider riding up to Chinook Pass and/or Crystal Mountain Ski Resort area as well.
Distance and Elevation: Round trip bike ride to Sunrise is approximately 41 miles and 4500 feet of climbing. Ride to Chinook is approximately 12/14 miles round trip and roughly another 1500 feet of climbing. Crystal Mountain ski resort is approximately 12 miles round trip and 1700 feet of climbing and is another possible add on. For sure we will so Sunrise and if you are up to the challenge you can elect to add on Chinook and/or Crystal Mountain ski area as well or you can just call it a day. It will be your choice. It is reported the Crystal Mountain Road has recently been rebuilt and is in “great” shape for cycling.
Meeting Location/Meet up Time: Meet in Crystal Mountain lower “dirt” parking lot just off highway 410 and the Crystal Mountain cutoff road. Plan to meet NLT 9:15 am and depart at 9:30 AM.
Car Pooling: Try hard to car pool. Let me know if you are willing to drive and/or need a ride. I will be looking for a ride.
Pace: Anywhere from moderate to brisk riding skills are needed. Everyone will climb/descend at their own pace. This is a “stay together” ride – not that we will climb/descend together but that we will hang together for mutual support and camaraderie. We will regroup at top of Sunrise for lunch/snack and that is a good spot to decide if you wish to add on Chinook and/or Crystal or call it a day. I plan to ride Chinook Pass or Crystal.
Cue Sheet: The cue sheet is for Sunrise and Crystal. Print out and bring it with you if you want one. No copies will be provided. Route will be: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/4808317. I don’t have a Ridewithgps route for Chinook, but you really don’t need one – just follow the road up to the Pass and turn around for the return.
Equipment: I suggest you bring rain/cold weather gear –not likely but just in case. Bring money for park entrance and lunch/snack. Two water bottles and energy food are also in order. Spare tubes, pump and other biking gear to make you self-sufficient are also necessary.
Weather/cancellation: Weather should be great but if weather is judged to be unsuitable for riding I will cancel the ride the night before the ride by email.
Ride Organizer: Tom Tanner, Cell phone - 206/384.9400. tjtanner@comcast.net
Thanks. Tom
